Early bird entries open for historic 2026 Royal Escape Race
by Lucy Brooks 9 Jan 02:38 AEDT
22 May 2026
Royal Escape Race 2024 © Sussex Yacht Club
Entries are now officially open for the Royal Escape Race, the historic cross-channel yacht race that departs from Brighton's Palace Pier and finishes in the Normandy port of Fécamp, with early bird pricing available until 28 February 2026.
The Royal Escape Race is one of the longest-running and most distinctive offshore races in the UK. Organised by Sussex Yacht Club (SYC), in partnership with Société des Régates de Fécamp, the 46th edition of this prestigious offshore event will take place on Friday 22 May 2026, bringing together a diverse fleet of yachts and sailors from across Sussex, the wider South Coast, and beyond.
Sailors can now benefit from early-bird pricing on race entries, with discounted rates available for a limited time. Entry includes participation in the race, moorings in Fécamp for the duration of the event, live race tracking.
The Royal Escape Race was founded in 1977 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee. It commemorates the daring escape of King Charles II in 1651 following his defeat at the Battle of Worcester. Fleeing Parliamentary forces, Charles journeyed to Shoreham-by-Sea, crossed the Channel aboard the coal brig Surprise, and landed safely in Fécamp. After the Restoration, he renamed the vessel HMY Royal Escape - from which the race takes its name.
Over nearly five decades, the event has evolved into one of the South Coast's most iconic and thrilling offshore challenges and it continues to draw both seasoned offshore racers and adventurous newcomers.
Sussex Yacht Club encourages sailors of all experience levels to take part. The course is accessible to less-experienced crews wishing to attempt their first cross-Channel passage, while still providing tactical challenges for experienced offshore racers.
Robin Stevenson, Commodore of Sussex Yacht Club, said: "We are delighted to open entries for the 2026 Royal Escape Race. This event is truly special - it blends the excitement of offshore sailing with centuries of local and national history. Whether you're racing, supporting, or watching the fleet set off from Brighton Beach, the Royal Escape Race creates a remarkable spectacle and a wonderful sense of community."
To enter the 2026 Royal Escape Race or learn more, visit sussexyachtclub.org.uk/royal-escape-race