The British Classic Yacht Club (BCYC) has confirmed this year’s British Classic Week will go ahead from 17th – 24th July. Now in its 19th edition, the regatta will take place despite ongoing Covid restrictions.
Photo credit: Guido Cantini
BCYC Commodore Jonathan Dyke commented, “As it stands, limitations will be in place for the initial two days of the regatta and we are adjusting the shoreside scene to adhere to the latest Government guidelines. We remain fully optimistic that from Monday 19th July onwards the regatta will be restriction-free, but we can adapt accordingly if plans change.”
Jonathan continued, “We are totally committed to running this year’s British Classic Week and delivering a fantastic week on the water and ashore. With the support of our sponsors and our team of experienced event organisers, we are fully prepared to go ahead in line with any government guidelines.”
Criteria for entry into British Classic Week is IRC classic yachts of 24ft and over or modern classic, Spirit of Tradition yachts of either wood or steel construction. Fast-paced racing for classes 1-4 and a 6mR class will take place in the challenging tidal waters of the Solent against the historic, picturesque backdrop of the Isle of Wight.
Race management organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron will see beautifully maintained classic yachts battle it out over a six-race series of varied courses, including round-the-cans races and the 30nm Nab Tower Race that takes in the iconic Horse Sand and No Mans Land Forts.
Above: yachts heading away from No Mans Land fort during the NAB Tower Race. Image: Guido Cantini
The regatta dinner on Saturday 17th July will go ahead in the marquee, operating under Covid rules, with drinks and meals served to guests at tables of six people. Sunday’s popular sunset drinks party at the iconic Royal Yacht Squadron will be moved to Monday 19th July when the Government plans to lift current restrictions.
Tuesday will see the return of the lively Pontoon Party, sponsored by Classic Boat magazine, with sundowners by Hattiers Rum and Dartmouth Gin. Kim Holman designed yacht Stiletto celebrates her 60th anniversary on Thursday 22nd July by hosting a free of charge BBQ and party in the regatta marquee. To round off the week, prizes will be distributed during the final regatta dinner on Friday evening.
Keen spectators will be able to enjoy fantastic views of the racing from the coastal paths and secluded beaches along the north shore of the Isle of Wight. Line starts and finishes in front of the famous Royal Yacht Squadron allow shore-based crowds to get close to the action on the water.
Above: crossing the line in front of the Royal Yacht Squadron. Image: Chris Brown
This year’s British Classic Week will see a bumper line-up of event support in the wake of Panerai’s long-term partnership with the event. This year’s sponsors include OneSails, Spirit Yachts and BRIG RIBs, with event support from Suffolk Yacht Harbour and traditional chandlery Classic Marine. The UK’s leading publication on classic and traditional boats, Classic Boat magazine, remains the regatta’s media partner.
Also new for British Classic Week 2021 is a partnership with the Tall Ships Youth Trust. As the regatta’s official charity partner, the Tall Ships Youth Trust will be integrated into all aspects of the week, from sailing to socialising and fundraising.
Above: The Tall Ships Youth Trust is the official BCW charity. Image: Tall Ships Youth Trust
A daily programme of ‘cruise in company’ events will see the cruising fleet sail to a variety of beautiful locations including lunch breaks at the Master Builders on the Beaulieu River and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club in Fishbourne on the Isle of Wight.
