Cornwall’s coastline has made sailing and fishing a huge part of the Cornish identity, and every year during the summer months, several boating events and regattas take place around the county. If you are planning your luxury Falmouth holidays for this summer, why not keep in mind some of the regatta events happening, giving you and all the family a chance to join in celebrating Cornwall’s heritage and see some incredible boating activities in the surrounding waters.
Cornwall’s coast is ideal for sailing events due to the sheltered bays and deep water harbours and not much commercial or cargo ferries. There are many fantastic harbours which are big enough for racing events and provide plenty of space for spectators on the shore.
Fal River Festival, 24th May – 2nd June
The ten-day festival has over 150 events from music, theatre, swimming, walking, gig racing and sailing. The festival allows both locals and visitors the opportunity to embrace the people, culture and sport associated with the Fal River. In addition to the arts and crafts, delicious food and drink and walks along the coast and river, there is plenty of things happening on the water to watch or take part in too. There will be races in pilot cutters over several days, and a highlight of the festival is the Beer Fleet, where boats of all shapes and sizes sail from Truro to Falmouth to mark the beginning of the festival.
Falmouth Classics Regatta, 14th – 16th June
The Falmouth Classics Regatta in June brings classic boats from around the South West and Britain. There is pasties, beer, shanty singing, and barbeques over the three days, and finishes with a parade of the sailboats on the Sunday. The event is centred around Falmouth Haven and Pendennis Marina where nearly 200 boats will be moored, and it is a special sight to see so many traditional vessels in one place! There will be several races over the weekend, each lasting around two hours and races likely finishing off at Trefusis Point. Different places to see the boat racing include Pendennis Point, the coastal footpath near St Anthony’s Lighthouse and Castle Drive.
Looe Lugger Regatta, 5th – 7th July
The Looe Lugger Regatta is a celebration of the fishing heritage, and many traditional Luggers – two-masted sailing boats – from around the UK head the historical port. During the regatta, the Luggers, some of which have sailed across from France, compete in six races and anchor in the harbour between races, giving visitors a chance to see the boats, some of which are over a hundred years old. Visitors to the town can observe the races from the pier and harbour and enjoy food from the local eateries.
Charlestown Regatta Week, 27th July – 2nd August
Charlestown Regatta Week brings together locals and visitors alike to enjoy live music, raft races, water sports, a flora dance procession and much more. The picturesque village of Charlestown is the ideal setting for a regatta as the Georgian harbour has remained relatively unchanged over the years. Volunteers run the week-long regatta, and events throughout the week include a triathlon, barbeques, live music, gig races, children’s sports and a grand carnival procession.
Fowey Regatta and Carnival Week, 18th – 24th August
The Fowey Regatta is one of the biggest boating events in the UK, and there is loads to see and do throughout the week. There are activities which happen every year, such as the Carnival procession, which sees the town decked out according to the theme. There is also the Giant Pasty ceremony and a crab catching contest. A firework display brings the regatta to a close, and you won’t want to miss a spectacular parachuting performance from the Red Devils. Boating events at the Regatta include yacht races to and from Falmouth, children’s gig racing and racing on the River Fowey. There are prizes to be won too, including one for the best local dinghy.
In addition to the many fantastic boating events taking place this summer, there is also music festivals and food festivals too, so you are sure to find something for the whole family when you stay at The Valley this summer. Get in touch with us today to book your stay!