There are offshore yacht races — and then there’s the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race. A gruelling 1,805-nautical-mile challenge that circles the British Isles, this race tests every aspect of seamanship, endurance, and teamwork. Held every four years and organised by the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC), it attracts some of the most experienced ocean sailors on the planet.
In 2026, First Class Sailing is offering a complete campaign for sailors ready to take on this extraordinary challenge — from comprehensive training and qualifying races to the start line in Cowes and the triumphant finish weeks later. It’s not just a race; it’s a defining experience and a rare opportunity to sail around the entire British Isles as part of a professional-led crew.
Yacht racing in the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race
Why the Round Britain & Ireland Race Is So Special
- Endurance at sea: Crews race continuously for two weeks or more, rotating through exhausting watch systems and unpredictable weather.
- Stunning but hostile scenery: Rounding the Shetland Islands, dodging headlands and shipping lanes, and sailing past wild coastlines that few sailors ever see.
- Prestige and history: Since its inception in 1976, the race has built a reputation for professionalism, sportsmanship, and respect for the sea.
Map of the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race course
About the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC)
The Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) is one of the world’s most prestigious sailing organisations, founded in 1925 to promote offshore racing excellence. RORC is the driving force behind some of the planet’s most challenging and respected yacht races — including the Fastnet Race, Caribbean 600, and the Round Britain & Ireland Race.
The club is known for its commitment to professional standards, safety, and fair racing, and for fostering a vibrant global offshore racing community. Taking part in a RORC-organised race means joining a tradition of sailors who have tested their skill and determination on the open sea for nearly a century.
Join the Campaign
If this race captures your imagination, you can take part as part of the First Class Sailing team. We’re offering a full 2026 campaign that includes your training, qualifying races, and berth for the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race itself — led by a professional skipper with offshore racing experience.
👉 Find out how to join the race: Visit our RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race 2026 campaign page for full details on the training schedule, pricing, and how to reserve your place.
The Full Campaign: From Training to Race Start
- Two Training Weekend — Intensive weekends refining sail handling and emergency drills, plus RYA Offshore Safety and Sea Survival.
- Qualifying RORC Races — Events such as the Cervantes Trophy, Myth of Malham, and St Malo Race build miles, confidence, and team cohesion.
- Preparation & Boat Familiarisation — Sail inventory, watch routines, provisioning, safety gear, and equipment checks.
- The Race — Starting and finishing in Cowes, it’s two weeks of pure offshore racing — no stops, no shortcuts.
Crew training on deck for the RB&I Race
A True Test of Skill and Resilience
Sailing 1,800 miles around Britain and Ireland means facing everything from flat calms to gale-force winds — sometimes within a single day.
- The English Channel tests tidal awareness and early race tactics.
- The West Coast of Ireland can deliver towering Atlantic swells.
- The Scottish coast demands careful navigation and stamina.
- The North Sea brings unpredictable weather and fog.
Why Sail with First Class Sailing?
- Experienced skippers and mates with offshore race pedigree.
- Comprehensive campaign planning from start to finish.
- Focus on safety, learning, and enjoyment — not just results.
- Welcoming crew culture — ambitious but inclusive.
Evening sailing during the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race
Race Fast, Sail Safe, Come Home Changed
Crossing the finish line at Cowes is an unforgettable moment — not because it’s over, but because of what it represents: endurance, camaraderie, and mastery of both yourself and the sea. Most sailors say the RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race changes how they see offshore sailing forever.
FAQs
How long does the Round Britain and Ireland Race take?
We anticipate the race will take 14–16 days
What qualifications or experience do I need?
You need to be fit and healthy and have similar racing experience such as a Fastnet under your belt.
What does the campaign include?
The campaign includes a training weekend, 3 RORC qualifying races, a Sea Survival and Offshore Personal Safety Course. All food on board.
How can I reserve a berth?
A 25% deposit secures you a berth.
What safety and support are provided?
Part of the campaign includes the RYA Sea Survival course and the Personal Offshore Safety Course.
Lifejackets, harnesses and PLBs will be included. The yacht will have an EPIRB on board plus all the usual gear such as flares and a liferaft.
What should I bring?
A full kit list will be provided. Sleeping bag, pillow, layers.
Ready to take the next step? Explore the campaign details and secure your place: RORC Round Britain & Ireland Race 2026 campaign page.
