The Rolex Fastnet Race is one of the most exciting and challenging offshore races in the world. The 700 nautical mile race will test you both mentally and physically as you challenge unpredictable weather conditions and tidal currents. To compete in the race, crews must complete 300 nautical miles in offshore races as a team, on the competing yacht in the months before the race. So by the time you cross the finish line with us, you will have gained around 1600nm of experience and be able to say you have completed the Rolex Fastnet Race 2025! This year the Fastnet will be finishing in Cherbourg, France.
Our campaign consists of two training weekends and three RORC qualifying races. These not only allow us to learn and find out what areas people excel in, but it also allows us to build a team. You get to experience the challenges, the excitement, the highs and lows with your fellow crew. It creates a level of camaraderie you will be proud to have been a part of.
All of this takes place on our stunning Grand Soleil 50, Sidney II (Sid for short!). What we’re offering is the chance to compete in the Fastnet, to competitively race but in style. Don’t get us wrong; this isn’t the ‘soft’ or easy choice; it will still be tough and will challenge you. You just get to be challenged on a spacious luxury yacht with home-cooked food. To experience the joys of racing, the exhilaration and fun it brings, but in the safety and space that a Grand Soleil brings.
The race takes place every other year, making it that even more enticing for sailors. It really is a ‘bucket list’ race you want to tick off! Each year the fleet attracts a wide variety of entries, from professional superyachts to small family sailing boats, from all across the globe. In 2017, the 340 IRC yacht class entry list was filled in just 4 minutes and 24 seconds, with a total of 390 boats competing in the race. That’s a big jump from the seven boats that entered the first-ever edition of the Fastnet Race back in 1925.
The race starts off Cowes on the Isle of Wight at the Royal Yacht Squadron line. After crossing the start line, we head out of the Solent, down past the Needles and along the south coast of England. After rounding Land’s End, we head across the Celtic Sea to round the Fastnet Rock, returning to Cherbourg.
The Rolex Fastnet Race is challenging, so we prefer prior sailing experience, but this isn’t essential. If you are a beginner to sailing or racing but would still like to get involved, get in touch with us and we can talk through the best options for you.
£5,950
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking
See above.
