As a flood tide of 7,500 competitors take to the water this morning, the bright sun and a fresh southwesterly herald a fantastic start to the week in the biggest Cowes Week to date.

The weather forecast predicts southwesterly 3 to 4 increasing to a 5 later and veering. The first fleets to start are already making their way to Cowes entrance. Sitting off the Royal Yacht Squadron, amongst others, are several Thames Barges which will race at Cowes for the second year, the 70-foot Swan, Serano, helmed by Olympic Gold medalist, Ben Ainslie and Adrian Stead, and perhaps the most celebrated yacht to be sailing at Cowes this year, Australia II.

Famous for winning the 1983 America’s Cup and stealing the cup from American hands for the first time in 132 years, Australia II has been out of the water for many years, and this will be her first public event for even longer.

ybw will be on the water throughout the day taking pictures for our online library where you can download your staggering start and fantastic finish – so smile for the camera!

More reports later….