Round the Island Race 2026

As part of Tonbridge’s yachting programme, a team of boys took part in the Round the Island Race, one of the world’s largest yacht races. The adventure began with a training sail from Portsmouth to Cowes aboard the 37-foot yacht Monet, joined by the Old Tonbridgian yacht, Kilderkin.

With almost 1,000 yachts entered, the crew started with a gentle downwind leg before tackling a demanding upwind stretch along the Isle of Wight’s southern coast in glorious sunshine and temperatures nearing 30°C. Throughout the race, Monet and Kilderkin enjoyed a close contest, with the Tonbridge crew working hard to reduce a two-mile deficit before a thrilling downwind finish under spinnaker.

After 62 miles and over 13 hours on the water, Monet crossed the line just metres behind Kilderkin. The Old Tonbridgian crew finished 506th overall, with Tonbridge close behind in 509th.

Following the race, the team returned to Portsmouth, completing their Man Overboard exercises and achieving their RYA Day Skipper qualification.

Master in Charge of Sailing, Jonathan Moss, “It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved and another excellent example of the opportunities offered through Tonbridge’s yachting programme. Our thanks go to Bourne to Sail for their expert support in making the experience possible.”