Cowes Week

Over 1,000 yachts and 8,500 competitors will take to the waters of the Solent during this year's Cowes Week.

The first organised yacht race at Cowes took place on 10 August 1826 and since then has grown to become the best known world-class yachting regatta.

Highlights

On the water, this year's highlights include the iShares Cup Extreme 40 Sailing Series. The seven high-performance 40-foot catamarans will do battle on race courses set as close to the shore as possible to make it an exciting watch for spectators.

Dame Ellen MacArthur at Cowes Week 2007

In June, Dame Ellen MacArthur won the Round the Island Race in one of the Extreme 40 catamarans.

The newly created IRC Class 0 Big Boat Series will also be racing on the Solent - designed for close racing between the biggest and most expensive yachts competing on the global circuit.

As well as the world class racing, there is also the chance for anyone to learn about sailing and get into the sport at any level.

Cowes Week 2007

The 'Try Sailing' free sailing lessons run by the United Kingdom Sailing Academy (UKSA) have been extended to allow disabled visitors the chance to get out on the water at this year’s Cowes Week.

Ladies Day on 9 August celebrates the achievements of female sailors - over a third of competitors in this year's regatta are women.

Off the water

If you'd rather just sit back and watch the action on the water, the best views can be had from The Green (in front of the Esplanade) and The Parade.

To get into the thick of the racing, spectator boats also leave from Trinity Landing on Cowes Parade, and advance bookings are possible by completing the online booking form.

Cowes Week Fireworks

Cowes Week is as much about the balls and parties as the racing. 50,000 spectators are expected to watch the traditional Friday night fireworks display at the climax to the week.

There is plenty of live music and entertainment at the Yacht Haven as well as exclusive balls and parties around the town.

Cowes Week essentials

An additional ferry service operated by Blue Funnel will run from 4-11 August between the Lymington Town Harbour Master’s Jetty and Trinity Landing, Cowes. Tickets will cost £15 for a return and £8 for a single.