16 Cape 31s Return to Cowes Week for High-Stakes Racing and Signature AIX Summer Garden Party

Tor Tomlinson
11 hours ago
2 min read

The Cape 31 fleet is back in force at Cowes Week 2025, with 16 top-level teams confirmed and ready to bring high-adrenaline racing back to the Solent. After standout performances throughout the UK circuit this season, the fleet is poised for a week of thrilling one-design battles, prestigious trophy hunts under IRC, and the now-iconic AIX Summer Garden Party.

🏁 Cape 31 Fleet Racing Schedule

The fleet will contest the Cape 31 Miniseries from Sunday 3rd to Tuesday 5th August, racing in tight one-design format to determine the week's early champion. The action then turns toward the prestigious IRC trophies on offer throughout the rest of the week:

Queen’s Cup – Saturday 2nd August
Britannia Cup – Wednesday 6th August
NYYC Challenge Cup – Thursday 7th August

On these days, Cape 31s will race under IRC within their class, meaning an overall corrected-time winner will be crowned while teams still battle boat-for-boat on the water.

🥇 2025 Cape 31 UK Circuit: Standout Performers

Several Cowes Week entries have already made their mark earlier this season:

Bullit (Julian Metherell) – Claimed overall victory at the Royal Southern June Regatta, showcasing serious pace and tight crew work.
Jiraffe (Simon Perry) – A consistent top-five finisher throughout the spring series, known for sharp starts and slick boat handling.
Flying Jenny 19 (Sandy Askew, USA) – The top international entry, flew in for the season and placed 2nd at the RORC Vice Admiral’s Cup, proving a major threat.
Toucan (Glyn, Anthony & Alex Locke) – Finished strongly at both Poole Regatta and the Royal Thames Series, establishing their place as rising contenders.