What is the Classic Channel Regatta?

The Classic Channel Regatta is a leading international event in the classic sailing world: Described by competitors in the last regatta as “The world’s most beautiful regatta” and “it is more than just a regatta – it is life enhancing!” the regatta attracts competitors from England, France, Ireland, Belgium, Holland and Germany. It will run for a week in 2024 and sail from Dartmouth to St Peter Port on Guernsey and on to Paimpol in Brittany.

There are normally 80 or more classic boats taking part: All built to pre-1975 designs. Most are original and built before 1975 with a few replicas built more recently to classic designs. The oldest boat that we have had in the history of the Regatta was launched in 1886. There is a diverse range of boats of different rig, size and history, but their owners share the same passion to preserve and promote the heritage of classic yachting.

The Regatta includes a series of races:

 Two days of The Dartmouth Classics races in Start Bay
  The Classic Channel Race in two stages from Dartmouth to St Peter Port and St Peter Port to Paimpol.
 The Tour de l’Île de Bréhat Race

There are also several informal parties, prizegivings and a picnic for the crews during the course of the
week. Prizes are awarded for each race and for a boat’s overall performance in the Regatta. Each boat has a
handicap or ‘rating’ based on its measurements to try to provide each boat with an equal chance of
winning. There is also a ‘Spirit of the Regatta’ Trophy awarded to the boat that has done most to embrace
the Corinthian ethos of the regatta.

Spectator events:

There are numerous activities on the water and ashore of interest to spectators and crew-members. Classic
boats in these sorts of numbers are a spectacular and beautiful sight.

 A Parade of Sail in Dartmouth Harbour and the boats moored in port.
 The racing in Start Bay can be seen from the shore south of Dartmouth.
 Entry into the lock at Paimpol after the Channel Race, with music on the harbour wall.
 The popular “Danse des Classiques” is ideal for spectators – spectator boats “Vedette de Bréhat”
sailing from Paimpol
 Parade of Sail into Paimpol Harbour after the Danse des Classiques and the boats moored in port.
 The regatta village in Paimpol with stalls and entertainment and the harbour celebrations.
 Sightseeing trips and sports events for the crews in and around Paimpol.