Suffolk Yacht Harbour (SYH), located on the River Orwell in Suffolk, has announced entries are
now open for its annual Classic Regatta. Taking place from 14th – 16th June, the regatta has built a strong reputation for its well-organised racing and relaxed, social scene.
Founded in 2002, the SYH Classic Regatta welcomes both sailing and motor yachts for a weekend on the water and socialising ashore. Entry criteria for the regatta requires yachts to be either pre-1970 design of traditional construction, Bermuda or gaff rigged and built of wood or steel. Modern classic yachts with wooden or steel hulls are also welcome. Following on from the successful inclusion of Deben Cherubs last year, the regatta will host a class for the Cherubs with racing into the River Stour and Orwell estuaries.
SYH Chairman Jonathan Dyke commented, “For many people, the regatta kick starts their racing and cruising season; it’s become an institution in the classic yacht calendar. We welcome experienced racers and those who are on the water for the fun of it. We’re looking forward to welcoming back our regular yachts and plenty of new faces too.”
The regatta race programme offers an optional Friday evening race ahead of a three-race series for fast, slow, Stella, and Deben Cherub classes over the weekend.
Classic motor boats separated into fast and slow classes will once again be welcomed to the regatta. A ‘parade of power’ will take place on Saturday afternoon, with owners and guests invited to join the socialising throughout the weekend.
SYH Managing Director Joshua Major said, “The regatta is the perfect opportunity to showcase the thriving classic boat community on the east coast. From a strong contingent of Fairey Marine boats to older classics large and small, the fleet is a varied and stunning spectacle on the water and all berthed together at SYH.”
On-the-water action is complemented by socialising in the SYH marina and at Haven Ports Yacht Club onboard a restored LV87 lightship. Yachts are berthed together to create a festival-style atmosphere and encourage the shared appreciation of beautifully restored and maintained classic yachts.
Regatta guests have the choice of freshly cooked breakfasts, homemade café treats, and a variety of dinner options. A regatta party and live music on Saturday evening are also a highlight.
Joshua Major continued, “Suffolk Yacht Harbour has a long association with classic yachts, going back to Stella designer Kim Holman (one of the harbour’s original founding directors). With classic yacht maintenance facilities in the workshops and the Classic Marine chandlery onsite, SYH is well-equipped to assist classic yacht owners in the lead up to, during and after the regatta.”
Founded in 2002, the regatta is the largest event of its kind for classic yachts on the east coast and attracts a fleet of both local and visiting sailors from as far afield as the Channel Islands.
