The yachting industry is a luxurious sporting discipline full of competitions for professional sailors and amateurs. The racing of boats started with sailboats in the Netherlands in the 17th century. Later, custom-built yachts emerged in the Royal Yacht Squadron. Yacht clubs across Europe eventually started organizing various competitions for social and recreational purposes. The popularity of yachting races and regattas remains strong up to this date. Some yachting competitions have become available for betting, and if you want to make predictions on other sports with attractive odds, then visit GGBet. If you are into yachting events, check our list below.
The America’s Cup
The America’s Cup is a sailing competition, taking place since 1851. The competition begins with preliminary regattas. During the Louis Vuitton Cup, challengers join the competition to reach the final. Seven teams join the race to become the winner and the Defender of the next Cup.
The America’s Cup has two competing yachts – the challenger and the defender. The tough competition focuses on sailing skills and sail designs. However, high-profile entrepreneurs and sponsors have turned the whole event into a significant fundraising and management event. In 2025, the America’s Cup Hall of Fame Challenge Set will be held in Newport, R.I.
The Boat Race (Oxford vs. Cambridge)
The Boat Race is a major event between the UK’s two major universities – Oxford and Cambridge. This annual competition takes place in London. During the race, the teams move along the Thames from Putney to Mortlake. Established in 1829, the Boat Race became the top tournament in the boat racing industry. The number of boats in an average race ranges from 2 to 8. Any number of boats can start together as long as there is enough space to fit them all.
The Boat Race 2025 will take place on Sunday, 13 April. The 4-mile, 374-yard course has spectator spots along the Thames, with official fan zones offering amenities. Cambridge is the current champion for both races, which will make them the main center of attention.
Volvo Ocean Race
Volvo Ocean Race is an international yacht racing competition that takes place every three or four years. Founded in 1973, it has become one of the most intensive tournaments in the world. The average race may last up to 6 months, covering thousands of nautical miles. IMOCA and VO65 teams join the competition to challenge their strength.
The tournament usually starts and finishes in different locations around the world. Sportsmen have to cover 39,000 nautical miles on the way to the final destination. The race has become a popular competition among amateurs and the best sailors in the world. The Ocean Race will return to Auckland in 2027.
Powerboat P1
Powerboat P1 is an organization responsible for a series of powerboat racing tournaments. They accept boats whose speed exceeds 160mph. Since 2020, the organization has conducted more than 600 races in 18 countries. They are now considered to be a leading marine motorsport brand, operating in different parts of the world.
Powerboat P1 features a variety of teams racing in different classes. They don’t set any limits on the number of participants. Every team has a chance to apply for participation in the upcoming event. The next P1 Offshore race is scheduled for Cocoa Beach, Florida, from May 16 to 18, 2025.
Dragon Boat World Championships
Dragon Boat World Championships represent a series of events in the sport of dragon boat racing. The International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF) accepts participants from different countries. Since 2006, they have gained thousands of fans who enjoy watching the dynamic sport.
17th IDBF World Dragon Boat Racing Championships (WDBRC2025) at Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany from 16-20 July 2025. There are 12 quota places, with 10 places for the final competition. The top teams with the highest amount of points qualify for the final round. The whole event takes place in extreme conditions, requiring participants to be physically strong.
Participating in a prestigious race like the Volvo Ocean Race or America’s Cup is a unique experience. It takes hours of preparation, mental strength, and strategic planning to reach the final. Watching boat competitions and regattas isn’t less exciting. No wonder the fan base of boat competitions is constantly growing.
