Gosport Regatta
“Your Majesty, there is no second”
The year was 1851 and Queen Victoria, who was watching the race, asked “Who was in second” as the yacht America, in the lead, passed by the Royal Yacht. This yacht America was of a radical design for the times, the pointy narrow end was in the front and the widest part amidships.
2015 Race Video
Gosport Regatta video
Next race: September 12, 2026 pursuit race:
The Gosport Regatta is a destination pursuit race. Its history goes back to the Oceanic Cup that attracted 50 boats and included boats from England and of course the US at the Isle of Shoals. In 1874 the US sailing yacht, America, won the race and became the namesake for the world famous America’s Cup. This year Gosport Regatta is a fundraiser for Piscataqua Sailing Association (PSA) to promote community, sailing and the New Hampshire Seacoast.
The Course: Yachts will start either by Government Mark “2KR” or Gunboat Shoals G1. The race will finish near the Government Mark “2KR”. Yachts will race around Government marks as well as around Appledore Island, Smuttynose Island, Cedar Island and Star Island depending on conditions.
Actual course(s) will be determined on Race Day pending conditions and will likely vary with Class and Division.
The Fleets: There will be Cruising (non-spinnaker), Racing (spinnaker) and J24 fleets. The Cedar Classic Yacht trophy for boats built in 1975 or older. The boats have ranged from an 18′ Cat boat, 50+ year old yawls, production cruising boats like Catalina and Hunters, cruisers-racers like C&C and Cal to racing boats such as J24, J105, J120 and J130.
After the race: Following the Regatta, there will be an Awards at Portsmouth Yacht Club with Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, Salad and Beverages. Skippers meal (1) is included in your registration fee of $150. Crew Meal is $25 per person.
SKIPPERS please contact either Portsmouth Yacht Club or Safe Harbor Wentworth Marina if you need a mooring/transient slip to participate in Gosport Regatta or attend Awards Party. Portsmouth Yacht Club or Safe Harbor Wentworth Marina
To register for 2026 Gosport Regatta: Skipper Registration
Crew sign up for 2026 Gosport Regatta Awards and Meal: Awards Meal Ticket
