01 / 06 / 2024 Activities, Points of interest

From July 17 to 25 : Classic Channel Regatta in Paimpol

Classic Channel Regatta 2024: a week of sailing, festivities, and tradition

The Classic Channel Regatta returns in 2024 for a new edition of what is often hailed as one of the most spectacular and memorable nautical events in the world. This biennial regatta offers an entire week of varied races and onshore festivities, showcasing an impressive gathering of classic yachts and their crews from Great Britain, France, and beyond.

Experience the classic yachts at the port of Paimpol from July 22 to 25!

paimpol classic channel regatta

A week full of events

The regatta will kick off in Dartmouth, where a sail parade will highlight the beauty of classic boats moored in the port. The two days of racing in Start Bay will offer spectators breathtaking views from the south shore of Dartmouth. Then, the crews will set sail for St Peter Port in Guernsey before heading to Paimpol in Brittany.

port paimpol bateaux classiques channel regatta

The arrival in Paimpol: a highlight of the regatta

The arrival in Paimpol is always a highlight, marked by a festive entrance into the lock, accompanied by music to celebrate the end of the Channel Race. Spectators can also enjoy the popular “Danse des Classiques,” where the boats participate in a spectacular nautical choreography, visible from spectator boats like the “Vedette de Bréhat” departing from Paimpol. This parade culminates in a grand entrance into the port of Paimpol, where the yachts dock for the remainder of the festivities.

port paimpol classic channel regatta

The heart of the regatta: the yachts and their crews

The true stars of the Classic Channel Regatta are undoubtedly the magnificent classic yachts and their dedicated crews. These boats, designed before the end of 1974 and constructed from various materials, as well as some newer yachts in a classic style, compete in beauty and technical prowess. The JCH Classic handicap system, which is free and accessible online, ensures a fair competition for all participants.

A plethora of mctivities for all

The Classic Channel Regatta offers numerous activities both on the water and onshore that captivate spectators and crew members alike. Classic boats in such events provide an extraordinary and magnificent spectacle.

  • A sail parade in the port of Dartmouth and the boats moored there.
  • Races at Start Bay that can be viewed from the south shore of Dartmouth.
  • Entrance into the lock at Paimpol after the Channel Race, accompanied by music.
  • The popular “Danse des Classiques,” ideal for spectators, with spectator boats like the “Vedette de Bréhat” departing from Paimpol.
  • Parade into the Port of Paimpol after the Danse des Classiques and docking of the boats.
  • The regatta village on the quay in Paimpol with stands, entertainment, and port festivities.
  • Tourist visits and sports activities for the crews in and around Paimpol.

The Paimpol Classic Channel Regatta association and Eskale d’Armor look forward to welcoming you in large numbers to the quays of Paimpol to admire these beautiful classic boats!