Melges 15 class builds momentum in the UK

64th Endeavour Trophy - Jasper Barnham & Graham Sexton (1038, GP14) © Mark Jardine

It is set to be an exciting 2026 for GP Watercraft, and especially the Melges 15 class.

2025 saw some incredible Melges 15 one design racing in the UK, with spectacular action involving 30 boats at the Endeavour Trophy, held at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club. High winds reduced the racing to a single day, with the fleet reaching speeds in the mid 20s on the downwind legs on the River Crouch.

64th Endeavour Trophy - Thomas Murphy & Sam Spencer (1054, Topper 4.2) and Graham & Blue Camm (1046, National 12) crossing gybes at speed - photo © Mark Jardine

With the new www.gpwatercraft.co.uk website now launched, outlining the range of coaching services, boats, spares, accessories and charter options they now provide, the team is starting the season firmly on the front foot.

Clash of the Coaches at the WPNSA - Upwind soon after the start - photo © Mark Jardine

GP Watercraft is the UK distributor of the Melges 15, and the team are able to transport the entire fleet for organisations to charter, and the RYA utilised the boats for a Coaches CPD (Continuous Personal Development) event they held at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy. The coaches relished the chance to take each other on, taking to the open cockpit and clean controls with gusto.

Clash of the Coaches at the WPNSA - Lining up to start - photo © Mark Jardine

There are a growing number of privately owned Melges 15s now making regular appearances at clubs around the UK, including Lymington and Warsash, and they have featured at various Seldén Sailjuice Winter Series events, including the 50th anniversary Bloody Mary. This is just the start of what will be an incredible year for the class with a superb calendar lined up, with the GP Watercraft team in attendance to support all the sailors.

Clash of the Coaches at the WPNSA - Rig tuning - photo © Mark Jardine

Why not join the worldwide class which is going places in 2026? We'll be at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show with new and ex-charter boats available. Contact the team via www.gpwatercraft.co.uk/contact-us and prepare for an exhilarating season!

Melges 15 UK 2026 Calendar: