Cowes Week 2026 marks an extraordinary milestone, as the week-long regatta celebrates its bicentenary year. With 200 years of British history, royal association and international participation under its belt, it’s a remarkable testament to the popularity of Cowes as a sailing destination and to the longevity of the largest and longest-running sailing regatta of its kind in the world.

The 2026 bicentenary will be a celebration not just of Cowes Week’s rich history, but of everything that makes it special today: the world-class regatta racing, the vibrant shoreside atmosphere and the unique sense of tradition mixed with innovation that keeps this regatta at the heart of the sailing calendar. As plans for the Bicentenary gather pace, read on to find out why Cowes Week 2026 promises to be an unmissable week of rivalry and festivity, both afloat and ashore