Folkboat Week 2026

31 Aug 2026

The 61st Folkboat Week delivered another memorable celebration of Folkboat sailing in Yarmouth, bringing together Nordic, Classic and Cruiser fleets for a week of competitive racing, socialising and friendship.

Hosted by the Royal Solent Yacht Club from 22–28 August, the event saw racing take place across the Western and Central Solent, with the fleet also venturing into Christchurch Bay. The week’s programme was not without its challenges, however, as the weather played a significant part in proceedings.

"A really enjoyable week with some great competition"

Monday’s scheduled racing was cancelled due to the weather, with the fleet making the most of the reserve day on Wednesday to get back on the water. Despite the disruption, competitors were rewarded with some excellent sailing conditions, including a particularly well-received trip into Christchurch Bay for windward leewards. The varied conditions provided plenty of tactical challenges and ensured that the racing remained engaging throughout the week.

The fleet itself was a highlight, with competitive one-design Nordic Folkboats racing alongside an increasingly strong Classic fleet. The mix of British and Nordic classics, together with International and Varne Folkboats, created a spectacular sight across the Solent and demonstrated the continuing appeal and diversity of the Folkboat class.

"Such a great event on and off the water"

Away from the racing, the social programme remained at the heart of the week. Competitors enjoyed welcome drinks, prizegiving’s, BBQs, a garden party, traditional folk songs and sea shanties, a quiz and curry night, before the week concluded with the final prizegiving dinner.

Tuesday evening’s garden party was generously supported by Matford Farm, adding another memorable evening to the week’s programme, while Lymington Yacht Haven continued its long-standing support of Folkboat Week as a key event sponsor.

"Folkboat week always gives me enthusiasm"

The post-event messages from competitors reflected the atmosphere of the week, with particular praise for the organisation, race team, Royal Solent Yacht Club, Yarmouth Harbour and organisers Teresa and David Fox. Above all, the comments highlighted the friendship, sportsmanship and camaraderie that make Folkboat Week about much more than the results on the water.

For some, the 61st edition was a first experience of Folkboat Week; for others, it marked another chapter in a long association with the class. One competitor described it as a fitting swansong after many years of Folkboat sailing, while others were already looking ahead to returning in 2027.

As proud supporters of Folkboat Week, Lymington Yacht Haven was delighted to play its part in another successful edition. Despite the weather challenges, the fleet made the most of every opportunity to race, sail and socialise — once again proving that the spirit of Folkboat Week is as strong as ever.