Whitstable Forts Race Weekend

The Whitstable Yacht Club is excited to announce the annual Whitstable Forts Race Weekend, which has established itself as the UK's top long-distance race for catamarans. For over 25 years, this event has been putting sailing and racing skills to the ultimate test.

We are proud to attract a diverse range of participants, including top national helms, experienced club racers, and even international entries. As part of the renowned Allen Endurance Series, the Forts Race has expanded its horizons to include a wider variety of boats and sailors, both catamarans and monohulls.

Covering an impressive distance of up to 85 kilometres, our race encompasses challenging estuary, coastal, and open sea conditions, providing competitive sailing across all points. What sets our event apart from others in the marathon racing scene is our unique hub and spoke format, offering flexibility and excitement to all participants.

The thrilling Bay Race takes place on Saturday, featuring a captivating round buoy race located just off the shores of Whitstable Yacht Club. The specific courses and race format will be determined according to the ever-changing weather conditions, making each year's event a thrilling adventure.

On Sunday, the action continues with the Forts Race and Whitstable Bay Endurance Race, set against the stunning backdrop of Whitstable Yacht Club's surroundings. Our fast catamarans will first sail towards the forts before joining the endurance race in radiating legs from WYC. Meanwhile, other boats will embark on their own radiating legs to various locations along the coast.

For all the sailors out there, worry not, as the course details for each class will be provided upon registration. It's important to note that the race results will count towards the highly anticipated 2022 Allen Endurance Series, adding even more excitement and prestige to the weekend.

We want to ensure that all interested participants have access to our event. The Forts Race weekend warmly welcomes dinghies and sports catamarans with a PY rating of 1270 and lower. However, we kindly request that kayaks, paddleboards, windsurfers, and kite surfers refrain from entering.

To ensure a memorable experience for everyone involved, the entry fee for single-handed participants is set at £40, while double-handed participants will be charged £60. This fee includes food for both the helm and crew at our fabulous Saturday night party. Please keep in mind that due to onshore space limitations, we are only able to accommodate 25 visiting boats.

For those in need of accommodation, fret not, as there are various options available within walking distance of the club. Additionally, Whitstable Yacht Club offers a limited number of cosy bunk rooms for those seeking convenience and comfort. Parking is available in Whitstable town centre, with limited campervan/motorhome parking near the club.

To familiarise yourself with the challenging race ahead, we invite you to download the provisional list of marks for the long-distance racing. If you're curious about our previous races, we are thrilled to share that all events from 2015 to 2019 were triumphant successes, leaving participants eagerly looking forward to each subsequent year.

The Whitstable Yacht Club eagerly awaits your presence at the upcoming Whitstable Forts Race Weekend—an unparalleled opportunity to showcase your sailing prowess and create cherished memories in the process. Don't miss out on this truly remarkable event!