RORC Rolex Fastnet Race 2027

Take part in one of the world’s most famous offshore races aboard Swan 51 “Eira”.

The Rolex Fastnet Race is a true classic and one of the highlights of the international sailing calendar. Starting from the Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes, the course takes the fleet west through the Solent and along the English coast before crossing the Celtic Sea to the Fastnet Rock off southwest Ireland. After rounding the rock, the fleet heads back across the Channel to the finish in Cherbourg-en-Cotentin, France.

At approximately 695 nautical miles, the Fastnet is a demanding offshore race combining challenging tidal waters, open-ocean sailing, tactical decision-making and unpredictable weather. It is an unforgettable opportunity to experience serious international yacht racing as an active member of the crew.

Previous offshore racing experience is strongly preferred. Participation is subject to a discussion with the skipper regarding sailing experience, fitness and crew suitability. A limited number of places may be available for less-experienced sailors alongside Eira’s qualified core crew.

Programme
Thursday, 22 July – Arrival and crew introduction

Join Swan 51 “Eira” in Cowes (or other nearby marina), settle aboard and meet the skipper and your fellow crew members. We will introduce the boat, campaign programme and personal safety equipment.

Friday, 23 July – Training and race preparation

Practical training aboard Eira, including sail handling, manoeuvres, watchkeeping and emergency procedures. We will complete the final provisioning and preparations before reviewing the weather forecast, course and race strategy.

Saturday, 24 July – Rolex Fastnet Race start

Final preparations before leaving the harbour and joining the international fleet off Cowes. Once racing, the crew will work in watches as we head west through the Solent and into the English Channel.

24–28 July – Racing

The course takes us past the south coast of England, around Land’s End and across the Celtic Sea to the Fastnet Rock. After rounding this legendary landmark, we return across the Channel towards the finish in Cherbourg.

The exact finishing time will depend on the weather and race conditions. A yacht such as Eira would normally expect to spend approximately four days at sea.

Wednesday, 28 July – Prize-giving in Cherbourg

After finishing, we will secure and tidy the boat before enjoying the atmosphere of the Rolex Fastnet Race Village. The campaign includes the official prize-giving and any crew events covered by the race entry fee.

Thursday, 29 July – Campaign ends

Goodbyes and departure from the boat.

Price
€3,300 per person

The price includes
Full Rolex Fastnet Race campaign aboard Swan 51 “Eira”
Professional skipper
Accommodation aboard throughout the campaign
Rolex Fastnet Race entry fee
Boat insurance
All boat-related operating costs, including mooring fees, fuel and gas
Personal safety equipment, including life jacket and PLB
Foul-weather gear in available sizes, excluding sailing boots
All food and non-alcoholic drinks while sailing and racing
Practical training and race preparation
Official events included in the race entry fee
Bed linen
Not included
Travel to Cowes and onward travel from Cherbourg
Personal travel or health insurance covering offshore sailing
Sailing boots
Meals and drinks ashore
Personal expenses
A reservation fee of 30% secures your place. The remaining balance is due two months before the campaign begins.

Places aboard are strictly limited. Contact us for availability and further information.