Best UK Boat Races

The Boat Race

Probably one of the most well-known of all the boat races, this annual rowing race between Oxford University and Cambridge University takes place on the River Thames. The first race occurred in 1829 and it has been an annual event since 1856. It is certainly one of the most popular races in the UK and is now televised.

The race began as a rivalry between school friends and has since grown into a huge event watched by millions of people each year with crowds gathering along the banks long before the race starts. The women's race started in 1927 and is now raced on the same day as the men's race.

Cowes Week

This is one of the longest-running regattas in the world with competitors and spectators coming from all over the world. There are around 40 daily races that make up this event, some for world-class professionals and others for hobby sailors. The event is incredibly popular due to the events held on-shore, from live music to cocktail parties and has an impressive firework display on the final Friday.

The regatta first took place in 1826 with the prize of a 'Gold Cup of the value of £100' and has now turned into a week of sailing events and parties. It is even possible to have a boat trip as a spectator to get up close to the action.

Dragon Boat Racing

One of the more unusual styles of racing, this involves teams of up to 20 paddlers in a 40-foot boat with a drummer helping to keep the rhythm. This creates a noisy spectacle with the colourful boats making it very exciting to watch. There are events held throughout the year, all over the country, there is also an annual festival held in London where more than 40 teams gather together to race.

The Yorkshire Pudding Boat Race

Without doubt one of the most unusual boat races held in the UK, this involves people baking giant Yorkshire puddings from flour, water and eggs and then sailing them down a river. This was thought up in the early 90s and has been going ever since. Each 'boat' is coated with yacht varnish to prevent it from going soggy and has space for an oarsman. Due to the unusual nature of the event it has attracted a great deal of attention from medial and draws in quite a large crowd. Unfortunately our insurance doesn't stretch to cover your Yorkshire pudding in this race!

Three Peaks Yacht Race

Arguably one of the hardest UK boat races, this event involves teams of four or five people sailing from Barmouth to Fort William. Two of the crew must climb the highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales.

There are a number of places where spectators can see the yachts or even watch the crew members climbing the peaks. The adventure race began in 1977 and has been described as one of the toughest long-distance events in the world. The event raises thousands of pounds for charity each year.

Yacht insurance from Towergate

Spending your days out on the water can be very appealing but it's important to make sure you're covered should anything happen. Yacht insurance can cover you for a range of incidents, including accidental damage, theft and weather events, which can give you peace of mind. We are also able to offer yacht insurance for racing should you wish to sail your yacht competitively. For more information visit our dedicated yacht insurance page or call us on 0344 892 1987.

 

Sources

The Boat Race

Cowes Week

Dragon Boat Racing

Yorkshire Pudding Boat Race

Three Peaks Yacht Race

About the author

Adam Summersby is a respected leader with 11 years’ varied experience in niche personal and commercial lines insurance, including caravan, site operators and excess reimbursement, with proficiency in leadership, sales and account management.