Everything you need to know about the Plymouth SailGP

Excitement is building as one of the most thrilling and prestigious international sailing events is set to take place in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City, this week. 

Millbay will be centre stage as SailGP comes to our shores on July 17 and 18 for a weekend of high speed, high-tech and high drama as eight competing teams battle it out in identical F50 catamarans, reaching speeds exceeding 60mph, in Plymouth Sound in a bid to win $1million.  

The Plymouth SailGP is the third race of the championships following the season openers in Bermuda, which resulted in a triumphant win for Team GB, and Taranto, Italy. Britain’s Ocean City will take centre stage as the next host of the adrenaline-filled event which is being held in partnership with Plymouth City Council, with support from Millbay’s lead developer the English Cities Fund, Associated British Ports and Sutton Harbour Group. 

Here is everything you need to know about the Plymouth SailGP. 

When is the Plymouth SailGP? 

Racing takes place in Plymouth Sound across two action-packed days; the first day includes three fleet races and the second day consists of two fleet races and the final. All eight teams will compete in the fleet races and the top three ranking teams will battle it out in the final to be crowned event champions.   

The races take place on Saturday 17th July, between 2pm and 3:30pm and Sunday 18th July, from 2.30pm until 4pm. The spectator area on Plymouth Hoe will be open at 11.30am on both days.  

Before the event, you can also watch the teams prepare and see the boats at the race village from 12th July. 

Where is the race village located? 

The SailGP race village is located in Millbay, by the award-winning Quadrant Wharf development, with Soap Street providing the perfect viewing point to see the action from the race village and technical area. 

Spectators can visit Millbay before and during the event for free and watch the athletes prepare themselves and their boats for their races. During the race weekend World Pizza will be situated at the end of the boulevard, overlooking King Point Marina, offering delicious gourmet, hand stretched pizza for visitors to enjoy. 

And if you’re in Millbay why not come along to our pop-up marketing suite located on the ground floor terrace of our waterside homes. Our sales team will be happy to talk to you about our 1 and 2 bedroom apartments in the stunning new Quadrant Wharf, available and ready to move in now.  

Where can I watch the event? 

There are lots of spots along Plymouth’s waterfront to enjoy SailGP over the weekend both on and off the water.  

The spectator area is located on Plymouth Hoe which offers free access with live commentary, entertainment and the chance to purchase official merchandise. You can also buy a Waterfront Premium ticket which gives you a front-row seat for the action from the Hoe, offering exclusive access in the spectator area, seating and a complimentary drink. A range of food and drink options will also be availabe.  

You can also watch the racing from the water on your own boat or with Plymouth Boat Trips who are offering the official on-water fan experience. If you are using your own boat make sure you are aware of the restrictions which will be in place in order to maintain a safe distance from the racing. 

What tickets are available? 

Fans in Plymouth can buy tickets now to watch the racing along Plymouth’s waterfront, with a range of options on offer including: 

• Waterfront Access – free 
• Waterfront Premium – £30 
• On-water Access – £45 
• On-water Premium – £120 
• Bring Your Own Boat Access – free 
• Bring Your Own Boat Premium – £150 + fees 

To purchase tickets or for more information, click here or visit the SailGP website. 

Watch out for news, competitions and lots more on our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram channels.