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Sunday 27th August 2023 Ocean Village, Southampton

Cowes-Torquay-Cowes and Cowes-Poole-Cowes powerboat races 2023

Join us for a great days photography on the Solent amongst the action as we capture record chasing speed trials involving various boats as they are put through their paces out on the water.

£149.00

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About this event

What better way to enjoy the late Summer, than with a day of exhilarating action on the Solent chasing various power boats as they go through their speed trials just outside of Torquay. These record chasing boats will be racing along a mile long course and we have our own dedicated photography boat 'Anchorman' that will be following alongside the action. The day is run by the OPRA (Offshore Powerboat Racing Association) Places are limited to 11 due to insurance and the boat we will be aboard. Our boat, Anchorman, is a large Catamaran that is perfect for photography with its large rear deck and top speed of 28knots. Our skipper is an extremely experienced sailor with over 20 years of sailing the Solent under his belt, not to mention his time as a Calshot Lifeboatman. So you are assured of a great safe day in the thick of all the action.

Our estimated start time will be 08:00 departing from Ocean Village at 08:15 with a return time of around 16:00. In the morning we depart on Anchorman to arrive at Cowes at around 9am in time to capture the powerboats as they leave for the first race that starts at around 10am. There are 2 races that take place, the race to Torquay and back and the race to Poole Harbour and back. We expect some boats returning between 1-2pm subject to weather and race conditions and we plan to visit the harbour to see and photograph the boats from close quarters. 

This event is priced slightly higher than usual because of the additional fuel costs required for Anchorman and distance that will be travelled. However we hope that you will agree that this is still great value for a full days photography out on the Solent.

Main image by Alan Platt & Andrew Shapland for illustrative purposes

Event requirements

Equipment

  • Spare batteries
  • Camera
  • Lense cloths
  • Lenses
  • Camera protection - rain covers etc

Other things you should bring

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water

Knowledge

  • All levels welcome

Fitness

  • Medium

Other essentials

  • Sturdy outdoor shoes
  • Warm clothing
  • Wet weather gear

Event location