Home of the Royal Yacht Squadron and and one of the most iconic sailing venues in Europe, Cowes is the birthplace of the America's Cup and hosts the oldest annual regatta, Cowes Week, during which the UK Act of the Extreme Sailing Series will take place once again this year.
The building of an 80-ton vessel for Queen Elizabeth in 1589 is believed to have initiated the town's shipbuilding tradition, and its reputation in that field quickly grew to an international level. Recreational sailing became a trademark with King George IV, who arguably gave Cowes its 'Yachting Capital of the World' status. In 1826, the first edition of what was to become Cowes Week was organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron, and the tricky emerald green waters of the Solent soon became a playground of choice for yachtsmen. The town's preserved charm and welcoming facilities are a coveted haven for visiting crews, and numerous spots along the seafront close to Cowes Castle, home of the Squadron, offer spectators a good view of the action. In Cowes, everything is about sailing and no less than 9 yacht clubs are to be found despite the town's modest size - the population usually doubles (from 16,000 to more than 30,000 people) during the sailing week in early August! World-class racing and great onshore entertainment definitely are on the menu, with more than 1000 boats on the various race courses.
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Extreme Sailing Series - UK