There’s no better time to explore the Solent on a UK bareboat charter than during the sailing season. From spring through to autumn, the waters off the south coast of England play host to some of the most exciting UK sailing events of the year.
Whether you’re taking part or just soaking up the atmosphere from the deck of your own bareboat yacht, the Solent delivers unforgettable experiences for sailors and spectators alike.
Spring: Royal Southern Yacht Club Series & Round the Island Race Training
Start the season with a front-row view of the Royal Southern Yacht Club’s early-season regattas, often kicking off in April and May. These popular events draw a mix of competitive sailors and passionate cruisers—perfect for catching the buzz of the season from your own bareboat charter.
As summer approaches, many crews begin preparing for the Round the Island Race. Charter a yacht to follow their progress and enjoy a relaxing cruise around the Isle of Wight ahead of the main event.
Summer: Round the Island Race & Cowes Week
One of the standout moments in UK sailing, the Round the Island Race (5 July 2025) is a spectacle of colour, competition and camaraderie. Charter a bareboat yacht and find the perfect anchorage to watch the action unfold in real-time.
Later in the season comes the iconic Cowes Week (26 July – 2 August), where over 1,000 boats fill the Solent. If you’re not racing, this is the ultimate time to enjoy a bareboat charter holiday—drop anchor, soak up the festive atmosphere, and head ashore for live music, fireworks, and great food.
Autumn: Southampton Boat Show & Little Britain Challenge Cup
As the weather starts to mellow, the Southampton International Boat Show (12–21 September) offers a relaxed but vibrant day out, perfect to tie into a late-season charter.
Explore the latest in UK sailing, then hop aboard your own yacht and cruise the coast at your leisure.
The Little Britain Challenge Cup (mid-September) wraps things up with some fun, informal racing and plenty of post-sail socials—a great event to witness from the water.
See the Solent Differently
Chartering a bareboat yacht is the ultimate way to enjoy the Solent’s sailing season. With so much happening on and off the water, it’s the perfect time to visit, explore, and unwind.
Whether you’re after lively events or peaceful anchorages, a UK bareboat charter with Fairview Sailing puts you in the heart of it all—no racing required.
Get in touch to plan your UK sailing adventure today.
