We are looking forward to what we hope will be a more normal time when Cowes Week plans to return on Saturday 31st July 2021 having taken a year out. The regatta will differ slightly and go back to times past when racing finished on the Friday, rather than sailing an 8th day on the Saturday. The second change, more to do with the current pandemic will be that the normal Friday evening spectacular fireworks will not go ahead for safety reasons given that some 70,000 people watch this eagerly awaited display annually.
The 2021 regatta will see some amazing advances in spectating as 5G technology will be brought to the event. Known as ‘Connected Cowes’ this initiative will see 50 selected yachts being fitted with high definition cameras that will live stream 360 degree footage from the racing yachts. Big screens in Cowes will show this footage with commentary with instant online access also available for smartphones, tablets and PCs. The world famous regatta has been selected by the Department for Digital Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) to participate in the 5G ‘Test & Create’ project. This initiative will be delivered in association with regatta partners AQL and official charity, the 1851 Trust.
For spectators, a virtual reality lounge situated on Cowes Parade will enable spectators to don headsets and be transported out onto the water whilst their feet are firmly on dry land. Look left or right to get the skippers perspective. It has not been decided if live sound will be broadcast as yet… just in case the language gets fruity when those close quarters manoeuvres play out!
A new Cowes Week Spectator App will ensure that all this new content is available to the masses both in the UK and around the planet allowing the regatta to be truly global.
We love this new virtual initiative but there really is nothing like experiencing this amazing regatta in the flesh. Solent Events offer all kinds of options to see the racing up close with Ribs, Luxury Sailing Yachts and Power Boats. We also offer the opportunity to charter a Racing Yacht for groups of between 6-12 guests with our friendly and professional crew. No experience is necessary and all that participate come away with a huge sense of achievement.
One thing that hasn’t changed is our shoreside hospitality option in Cowes at the Royal Ocean Racing Club. This elevated venue offers stunning views across the harbour and Solent beyond and provides an escape from the madding crowds just a few hundred meters away on Cowes Parade! Come and see what all the fuss is about and you won’t be disappointed!
Call us to discuss your Cowes Week hospitality experience today.
