Newport is known for it’s sailing, so it’s no surprise that during the summer it’s home to a variety of competitive sailing races and regatta’s.  The Volvo Ocean Race kicked things off in May, and there’s no shortage of sailing competitions in the upcoming months.  The following are coming up at the end of June and into July: Newport Sailing Week, the 2015 Transatlantic Race and the Newport Regatta.

Newport Sailing Week, sponsored by Bacardi and EFG will take place from June 26th to July 5th, with the regatta taking place June 26th-28th.  This is the event’s fifth year and more than 60 boats from a variety of one-design classes will be competing.  This event attracts some of the best International and National Sailors.

The Transatlantic Race is back and over 40 boats will set out to cover the 2,800 nautical mile route from the Castle Hill Light House to The Lizard, the most southern point on Great Britain’s mainland.  The last race was held in 2011.  The Transatlantic Race is organized by the Royal Yacht Squadron, the New York Yacht Club, the Royal Ocean Racing Club and the Storm Trysail Club.  The race has three separate starts, June 28th, July 1st and July 5th for the different sizes and classes of yachts participating.  The purpose of the staggered start dates is to have all the boats arrive in the same time frame.  Smaller boats will depart first, completing the race in 15-20 days, while faster and larger boats will start on the 5th with the goal to beat the record, set in 2011, of 6 days, 22 hours, 8 minutes and 2 seconds.

The Newport Regatta will be held at Fort Adams State Park July 10th through 12th.  This is one of the country’s premiere one-design regattas.

There’s plenty of ways to get your sailing fix this summer in Newport.  Be sure to check out some of the races and regattas during your stay.