Competitor registration for the 2025 Royal Solent Yacht Club (RSYC) Contessa Regatta, set to take place from Friday, 16 May to Sunday, 18 May, is now open. Early indications suggest that the event, which attracted a fleet of 27 boats in 2024, will see a significant increase in participants for its third edition.
Hosted by the RSYC, based in Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, the regatta will feature five races across the weekend in the Western Solent. Alongside the competitive sailing, attendees can expect a full schedule of shore-based entertainment, with support from the event’s main sponsors, Jeremy Rogers Ltd. and Maison Louis Jadot, as well as Hall Hunter Partnership.
The regatta will feature four racing divisions: Contessa 32 (Inshore Points Series 2), Contessa 28 (National Championships), Contessa 26 (National Championships), and a combined NHC division for Contessa 35, 38, 39, and 43. Known for their strong community spirit, Contessa sailors will enjoy not only fierce competition but also a welcoming atmosphere, with the regatta open to non-racing Contessa boats and crews.
In addition to the racing, non-competitive participants will face the ‘Solent Quest’—an innovative treasure hunt-style challenge featuring unique onboard activities, which must be documented by photographs. This creative event is the brainchild of Guy and Zoe Darby, of Contessa 32 Ripple of Kyle.
The 2025 regatta kicks off on Friday evening with the Maison Louis Jadot Maçon – Lugny Drinks Reception, held on the RSYC’s beachfront lawn. Saturday evening promises further festivities with a Rum Punch Party hosted by Jeremy Rogers Ltd., followed by supper and live music at the club.
On Sunday, after two final races, the prize-giving ceremony will take place at the RSYC. Each class winner will receive a magnum of Louis Jadot Moulin-à-Vent Château des Jacques, with the overall winner taking home a jeroboam of this exceptional Beaujolais.
The Royal Solent Yacht Club, Jeremy Rogers Ltd., and Maison Louis Jadot are looking forward to another unforgettable Contessa regatta, both on the water and ashore.
