The Haven Knox-Johnston Kip Regatta 9th & 10th May 2026
The first “Major” of the Scottish racing calendar returns to the water from Kip Marina on 9th & 10th May 2026.
The Royal Western Yacht Club is delighted to once again welcome competitors to the Haven Knox-Johnston Kip Regatta 2026. Having taken on board valuable feedback from racers, the team is preparing a programme that showcases the very best of Clyde yachting — delivering well-organised, closely fought racing off the waters of Inverkip, a warm welcome from the team at Kip Marina, and an entertaining social programme ashore.
Whether you’re launching your season in style or fine-tuning boat and crew for the months ahead, Kip Regatta offers the perfect start. Expert race management ensures competitive racing across a wide range of classes in the world-class waters of the Clyde.
Racing classes include IRC 1 & 4, RC35, CYCA 3 & 5, Sigma 33, International Etchells, 2-Handed, 707s and more.
Competitors will be racing not only for prestigious RWYC silverware, but also for superb prizes generously supported by Blackwood Scotland, Gill, Kingfisher Ropes, Tunnock’s, Dubarry, Argyll riggers and Anglewax.
________________________________________
From Our Title Sponsor – Haven Knox-Johnston
The Haven Knox-Johnston crew are delighted to return as title sponsor of the 2026 Kip Regatta — marking their third consecutive year supporting this outstanding event.
As a company passionate about the yachting community, Haven Knox-Johnston is proud to help bring sailors together to do what they love most. The west coast of Scotland provides a truly breath-taking backdrop for a weekend of competitive on-water action and memorable shoreside celebrations.
Following another fantastic event in 2025, and with over 50 boats expected on the start line again in 2026, this year’s regatta promises to be bigger and better than ever. The Haven Knox-Johnston team looks forward to being part of the weekend and working alongside Kip Marina to deliver a regatta to remember.
As you prepare for the season ahead, visit HavenKJ.com or call 01732 223 650 for a competitive boat insurance quote covering your 2026 cruising and racing plans.
Shoreside Highlights
The action continues long after the final gun. Crews and visitors can enjoy a full programme of popular social events, including:
• Friday Evening BBQ – Hosted by the Kip Marina team and McCaskie’s Butchers, with complimentary bites for entrants from 6–8pm as crews prepare for the weekend’s racing.
• Saturday Night Shore Party – The legendary celebration at The Chartroom, featuring live music into the small hours.
• Sunday Prize Giving – An afternoon ceremony to recognise the winners and bring the regatta to a fitting close.
Kip Marina also offers an on-site café and restaurant — ideal for refuelling, relaxing, or recovering after racing, café Riva and Buckleys at the chartroom will be open but please book ahead.
Why 2026?
Each year, Kip Regatta attracts a growing number of first-time competitors. If you’ve been thinking about “doing the West Coast,” 2026 is the perfect opportunity to experience the exceptional sailing waters of the Clyde for yourself.
Entrants benefit from special reduced Regatta rates on berthing, hoists and launching. For full details, email info@kipmarina.co.uk and quote “Kip Regatta.”
The Haven Knox-Johnston Kip Regatta 2026 takes place on 9th & 10th May.
For the latest news and updates, visit www.kipmarina.co.uk and follow on social media.
For further information:
info@kipmarina.co.uk
01475 521 485
