As a result of almost every major yacht club, at some time in their history, commissioning a one-design for local racing, there are many dayboat classes eligible to compete at Cowes Classics Week.

Loyal supporters of the event are the Solent Sunbeam, X One Design and the Bembridge One Design. The Squib fleet from Royal Victoria YC in Fishbourne also compete for one day each year.

Other fleets have attended on a number of occasions, notably the Loch Long fleet from Aldeburgh in Suffolk. The Flying Fifteens joined us for the first time in 2013 and the National Swallow class in 2014. Both are now regular classes.

In 2018 we welcomed the Bembridge Redwings and the Victory Class from Portsmouth who sailed with us for the first time in 2017. A number of vintage International Dragons also regulalrly feature along with the The Loch Longs from Aldeburgh who we hope will be joining us again this year.

All other classes and one-offs are welcome to take part. It is our practice to provide a separate start to any class with 10 boats or more. Classes smaller than this, and one-offs race in the Classic Dayboat class, on KLR Handicaps. We usually provide class results and prizes within the Classic Dayboat class With our mantra of providing what the Classes and competitors want, we are usually able to offer a bespoke programme, so if you are interested in bringing your one design class to the Regatta, please contact us.

Photo: Seaview Mermaid courtesy of the Sea View Yacht Club

KLR System Handicapping for the Classic Dayboat class

Handicapping will use the Klassiker Rennwert (KLR) formula commonly used in the Baltic for classics events. The formula is intended to separate racing from the judgement over items like authenticity, originality and state of maintenance, and so on. It is a formula to provide ratings across a broad range of boats designed over more than 50 years. KLR doesn’t need complicated measurements and certificates are not required. For more information: www.fky.org/regatta/klr-engl.htm

To apply for a KLR handicap you must download and complete this form (which is an excel spreadsheet) that must then be emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to arrive no later than two weeks before the event. The handicaps are administered by an independent party who may contact you to discuss the data provided.

A note on Eligibility

Classic Dayboats designed over 50 years ago are eligible to compete at Cowes Classics Week. Since it is the design date, not the build date, which is relevant, the Regatta is open to both old and new boats of an eligible class, although if a particular class wished to attend with boats over 50 years only, then please contact us.

Regular Racing Classes

Invited Racing Classes

As well as individual boats of all relevant types, Classes that may also wish to participate in Cowes Classics Week, and to whom a warm welcome will be extended, include:

We apologise if we've missed anybody out -  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..