Cork Week 2026 Kicks Off with a Family Fun Day And Exciting Racing

This week the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven, the world’s oldest yacht club, welcomes sailors and boats from around the globe to Cork Week 2026. Racing kicks off today and runs daily until Friday with over 120 boats racing and 6,000 sailors and spectators set to attend. Crosshaven will come alive throughout the week, with thrilling action promised on the water alongside a lively mix of entertainment and festivities ashore. Nearby harbour villages across Cork will also be buzzing, providing ideal spots to take in the breathtaking scenes at sea. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or simply enjoying the atmosphere, there will be plenty for everyone to enjoy.

The event officially was officially opened yesterday (Sunday) by Taoiseach Michel Martin, along with many honoured guests in attendance including County Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Bernard Moynihan, City of Cork Lord Mayor Councillor Damian Boylan, a number of local councillors,  Admiral Denis Byrne,  Rob Foster, Vice Admiral RCYC  and General Manager.

Speaking at the event Taoiseach Micheál Martin said,“It is a pleasure to officially open Cork Week 2026 here at the oldest sailing club in the world – the Royal Cork Yacht Club. Events like this that attract visitors from around the world are very important for Ireland, as they are an opportunity to showcase our beautiful marine resource, particularly here in Cork Harbour, the second biggest natural harbour in the world.  This event is a huge part of Cork harbour’s history that we are all very proud of.”

Families got in early on the nautical fun at the Family Day at the picturesque waterfront of Royal Cork Yacht Club (RCYC) which was transformed into a treasure trove of free fun, education, and nautical activities which kept the young sea-lovers entertained. Activities included face painting, balloon modelling, pirate games, a Play Zone, and a Coastal Market. Families also enjoyed trails to Camden Fort Meagher, coastal walks, and the famous Pipers Fun Fair.

World Class Racing

There are two major championships added to this year’s racing programme – the Etchells European Championships 2026 and the Irish Cruiser Racing Association (ICRA) Championships – promising some exciting performances. Other highlights include the Harbour Race on Wednesday 8th July and the renowned Beaufort Cup for international uniformed service personnel which runs for the duration of the week and  includes an overnight race around the Fastnet starting on Monday 6th July. 

Entertainment

As boats dock after a day’s racing, the fun continues on dry land! The Royal Cork Yacht Club has a full week of entertainment lined up, featuring live musical acts each afternoon including resident musician Phil Holbird, onshore sailing activities, and various retail outlets, spares, sail-repair, and other facilities.

Closing off the week, Red FM’s Ciara Revins will broadcast live from the Royal Cork Yacht Club on Friday 10th July from 12-4pm. 

Highlights include: 

Monday 6th – Heineken Après Sail Welcome party – 4pm 

Tuesday 7th – ‘Fastnet Tuesday” Mount Gay Après Sail with Crosshaven Music Collective – 4pm

Wednesday 8th – Cork Week Ladies’ Day charity lunch, in support of Crosshaven RNLI, hosted by Red FM’s KC, with special guest Reggie and music by The Loungeman and Phil Holbird & band. 

Murphy’s Après Sail with The Loungeman- 4pm, 

Mid-Week Party in the Marquee – 7pm

Thursday 9th  – The Busker and Ginger Ale Après Sail – 4pm,  

Traditional Cork Week John Paul Construction BBQ Bash -7pm

DJ Trevor – 10pm

Friday 10th – Murphy’s Après Sail – 4pm, Prizegiving & Closing Ceremony – 5pm, Closing Party – 7pm

Download the full entertainment programme on www.corkweek.ie/cork-week-2026-entertainment-schedule/

Dining

Plenty of dining options will be available at the Royal Cork Yacht Club, including a host of food trucks and food stalls, open daily from 3pm. The Bistro menu will be available in the RCYC Dining Room each day from 5:30-9:30 pm.

Best Viewing Points

Catch the action from recommended viewing points: Camden and Church Bay in Crosshaven, the new Haulbowline Island Amenity Park, Ringaskiddy, and the promenade in Cobh.

Getting There and Back

There are buses from Cork City direct to the Royal Cork Yacht Club (220/220X). For those wishing to drive, parking is available on-site.

Cork Week is supported by Cork County Council, Port of Cork, Musto, Heineken, Barry & Fitzwilliam, CH Marine, John Paul Construction, Smart Club Solutions, Douglas Court Shopping Centre, Arachas Insurance, the National Space Centre and media partner Red FM. 

For more see www.corkweek.ie.
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