History

Fowey Royal Regatta dates back to the 1830's. The event predates the foundation of the yacht club or sailing club by a long way and is an example of the popularity of such events whose roots can be traced back to Victorian times.

The first published record of a regatta is in the Royal Cornwall Gazette 25 July 1835 "The lovers of aquatic diversions had a real treat at Fowey on Tuesday last when the annual rowing regatta took place." Although the newspaper article refers to an annual event it is not know how long it had been so. Many regattas at the time were featured rowing and attracted large crowds to cheer them on. Yachting in those days was still very much a sport for the aristocracy and royalty.

The regatta has always been a big event for the town and everyone can be involved in their own way - whether participating in the on-water activities or enjoying the entertainment ashore.

Over time the event grew from a single day event 'Royal Fowey Regatta' into what we see today which spreads across an entire week. In terms of sailing racing additional days were added so that the Royal Fowey Yacht Club have their own day, Fowey Gallants Sailing Club have a day and most recently a fourth day was added 'Tribute Day' in reference to the sponsor - St Austell Brewery. The racing is now very much a sailing focussed event with a large turnout of the local Troy and Fowey River fleets as well as a mixture of dinghies racing in handicap fleets. The cruiser fleet brings visitors from distant ports to enjoy the week -some venturing from France or even further. Rowing still features in the week and the gigs race on Saturday after the sailing programme is mostly complete.

Last updated 18:02 on 5 May 2023