TODAY

  • THE big race is the Britannia Cup. Introduced to rival the America’s Cup, this trophy is for the larger yachts in a competition of international significance.
  •  In support of soldier charity, Toe in the Water, the Black Knights Royal Artillery Parachute Display Team will be performing a spectacular jump into a narrow stretch of water between Trinity Landing and Cowes Parade at 7.30pm.
  • Live music on the day includes Travel Sick Rick from 8pm to 9.30pm and The All Stars headlining at Cowes Yacht Haven from 10pm to 11.30pm.
  •  After the Black Knights, Joey and the Jivers will be performing in the parade from 9pm to 10.30pm.
  •  The Anchor also sees Ben Jordan and 30Ten performing throughout the day.

TOMORROW

  • Another big sailing prize is up for grabs in the New York Yacht Club Challenge Cup. Formed on the one hundreth anniversary of the America’s Cup, the trophy was intended to encourage overseas yachts to race at Cowes and was awarded each year to the winner.
  • It is also the start of the ever popular Artemis Challenge which sees top class yachts roaring around the Isle of Wight for a charity pot of £12,000. Expect some celebrities as this race has previously attracted the likes of film star Ewan McGregor, rocker Bryan Adams and James and Oliuver Phelps, better known as the Weasley twins from the Harry Potter movies.
  • If you were lucky enough to be invited, the Royal London Yacht Club Diamond Ball is being held tonight. Expect the glad rags to be on too at the Royal Ocean Racing Club Cocktail Party at the Royal Yacht Squadron, and the XOD Class Cocktail Party at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club.
  • Mere mortals can enjoy Stu Collins and T-Rextasy at the Cowes Yacht Haven from 8pm to 9.30pm and 10pm to 11.30pm respectively.
  • The Ohmz are performing at Cowes Parade from 7pm to 8.30pm followed by Derek Sandy and the Reggae Source from 9pm to 10.30pm. Cornerstone are performing at The Anchor from 9pm.