The Panerai British Classic Week from 8 - 15 July, is a unique event thanks to its magical setting in the town of Cowes on the isle of Wight, home of both the legendary America’s Cup and the Royal Yacht Squadron, founded in 1815. 

Organised by the British Classic Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron Racing, the Panerai British Classic Week is renowned for the beautiful classics it attracts and the number of events packed into a busy week of sailing. 

Racing started on Sunday 9 July after the traditional Concours d’Elegance, a parade of classic boats as a tribute to fans and spectators ashore. This was followed by a full week of racing with the high profile fleet battling it out off the waters of Cowes. 

The Panerai British Classic Week is a thrill for any sailor or sailing enthusiast, where even the start is heralded by uniformed race officers on the Royal Yacht Squadron battlements with a countdown to the traditional cannon shot signalling the off.

Approximately 50 yachts compete on a variety of courses ranging from the shortest in the Solent strait  to longer, more challenging routes such as the Round The Island Race, a full circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight.