How is the weekend structured?

Each weekend runs over two days, with racing taking place on both Saturday and Sunday. Saturdays are typically the busiest, with multiple shorter races designed to test different aspects of racing performance. Sundays usually include fewer races, often slightly longer in format. This allows crews to build on what they learned the previous day and finish the weekend with more consistent performance.

How much racing will we do?

Across the weekend, crews can expect several races depending on conditions and the race schedule. Saturdays can include up to four races, while Sundays usually include up to two. Time on the water is typically around four to five hours each day, giving plenty of opportunity to practise and improve without it feeling overly long.

What roles will I take onboard?

Crew members will be given active roles as part of the team, which may include sail trimming, handling lines, or supporting manoeuvres during tacks and gybes. Roles may change throughout the weekend so that everyone has the chance to experience different aspects of racing and build a broader understanding of how the boat operates.

Do I need racing experience?

Previous offshore sailing experience is required, but you do not need to be an experienced racer. The weekends are designed to help sailors develop their racing skills in a practical setting. If you have some experience with sails and general boat handling, you will be able to get involved and learn quickly during the races.

Will there be coaching during the races?

Yes, the skipper will provide guidance and feedback throughout the weekend. This includes advice on sail trim, positioning, and teamwork during manoeuvres. Learning comes through doing, so much of the coaching happens in real time while racing, helping you understand how to improve performance immediately.

Can I join both weekends?

Yes, you can choose to join one or both race weekends. Joining both provides more time on the water and allows for greater progression in skills and confidence. Sailors who take part in both weekends often notice a clear improvement in their performance and understanding of racing tactics.

Where will we stay during the weekend?

Some participants choose to stay onboard the yacht on Friday and Saturday nights if arranged in advance. This can make logistics easier, especially for early starts. Alternatively, accommodation can be arranged nearby onshore depending on your preference. This is not included in the package.

Solent IRC Spring Championships Racing Weekends

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Take part in a competitive sailing weekend on the Solent and build your racing experience alongside an experienced skipper and crew. These race weekends are designed for sailors who want to sharpen their skills, enjoy close competition, and get back on the water early in the season. With multiple races across each weekend, it’s a focused and rewarding way to improve while being part of a team.

⛵ Key Details

Duration: 2-day racing weekend (option to join one or both)
Location: Solent and River Hamble
Group size: Small crew onboard
Experience level: Previous offshore sailing experience required

📖 What to Expect

Each weekend begins early at Port Hamble Marina, where the crew meets and prepares the yacht before heading out onto the Solent. Saturdays are typically the busiest race days, with up to four races taking place. These shorter races provide plenty of opportunities to practise starts, refine sail trim, and work closely as a team under pressure.

Sundays continue with up to two races, often slightly longer in format. By this stage, the crew has settled into their roles, allowing for more confident manoeuvres and improved coordination. Between races, there is time to reset, review performance, and make small adjustments that can make a noticeable difference in the next start.

Across the weekend, you’ll be fully involved in the racing process. Whether working on the foredeck, trimming sails, or supporting manoeuvres, every role contributes to the overall performance of the boat. Expect a mix of focused racing, learning through doing, and plenty of time on the water in a competitive environment.

📍 Location

Racing takes place on the Solent, one of the UK’s most active and well-known sailing areas. Its combination of tidal streams, shifting winds, and busy race courses makes it an ideal location for competitive sailing events.

The starting point is Port Hamble Marina, located on the River Hamble. This provides quick access to the central Solent race areas, where courses are set for round-the-cans racing across open water and near the coastline.

⚓ Prerequisites

Participants should have previous offshore sailing experience to take part in these racing weekends. This ensures everyone onboard is comfortable with the pace and demands of competitive sailing.

Experience with spinnakers or gennakers is helpful but not essential, as guidance will be provided throughout the event. Sailors joining as part of a wider campaign may be able to use this as their first offshore race depending on their overall experience.

🌊 Why Choose Us

Racing weekends are run in a way that balances performance with learning, giving sailors the chance to improve while still enjoying the competitive side of the sport. Crews are encouraged to take on active roles onboard, helping build confidence and develop racing skills through real experience.

Our skippers bring strong racing backgrounds and focus on creating a supportive environment where sailors can push themselves without unnecessary pressure. The result is a weekend that feels both challenging and rewarding, with clear progression across each race.