With a special 200 anniversary event this year, North Sails Cowes Week will commence on the 1st August.

There will be all the usual sailing and entertainment with on shore events across the town and East Cowes. There really is something for everyone so head “Down Cowes” and have a good time.

Special events this year include the return of the end of week fireworks, the Red Arrows and a new and fascinating exhibition based around the Royals and Sailing entitled ” Sailing Through Royal History”. Northwood House and its grounds will host a wide variety of events, and of course, all the local yacht clubs will hosts dinners, BBQs, parties and balls.

Red Funnel is bringing back its popular Cowes Week Fireworks Cruises this summer, offering customers a unique way to experience one of the Island’s most iconic events from the water.

Taking place on Friday 7 August, the three-hour evening cruises will give passengers front-row views of the Cowes Week fireworks display, offering a more relaxed way to enjoy the spectacle away from the Cowes crowds.

As the sun sets over the Solent, guests will sail into the heart of the action, with uninterrupted views of the 21:30 fireworks display from the vessel’s outer decks.

On board, passengers can enjoy live entertainment alongside a range of hot food options, with fully licensed bars serving beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks throughout the evening.

For those looking to make the night extra special, Red Funnel is also offering an upgraded Signature Lounge experience. This includes a welcome drink, a selection of savoury and sweet nibbles, complimentary refreshments and access to a comfortable indoor lounge with panoramic views. Guests will also benefit from exclusive access to a dedicated top deck viewing area for the fireworks.

The Southampton sailing departs at 20:30 and returns at approximately 23:00. The East Cowes sailing departs at 20:30 and returns at 23:00.

Tickets are available now, with prices starting from £35 for adults on the East Cowes cruise and £45 from Southampton. Signature Lounge upgrades are also available on both sailings but are selling fast. Limited on-board parking can be booked in advance.

Whilst on shore for the first time in nearly 30 years, The Royal Yacht Britannia returns to Cowes through a unique exhibition from The Royal Yacht Britannia Trust. ‘Sailing Through Royal History’ explores Britannia’s deep-rooted connections with Cowes and its community, as well as the Royal Family’s close ties to the legendary local yacht designer, Uffa Fox.

Hosted in the historic Commodore’s House – once the renowned workshop of Uffa Fox – the exhibition offers a rare and compelling insight into Cowes’ rich maritime and Royal heritage.

At the heart of the exhibition is COWESLIP, the most celebrated of the Flying Fifteen keelboats, once sailed by the Royal Family.

Running from 31 July to 29 August, the exhibition coincides with the Cowes Week Bicentenary Regatta, as well as the prestigious Dragon Class regattas: the Edinburgh Cup and the Marblehead Trophy.