June 22nd-25th 2011. The outer harbour at Kinsale will present excellent sailing conditions and a beautiful backdrop for visitors to the Sovereign's Cup in late June. The hugely popular bi-annual cruiser regatta hosted by the Kinsale Yacht Club prides itself on its natural sailing surroundings and an equally attractive social programme ashore.

Fifteen years ago the Sovereign's Cup was born and the event continues to grow. Over 140 boats came from all over Ireland and the UK in 2009 to compete for the prestigious Sovereign's Cup for best all-round score in IRC and the Portcullis Trophy for best progressive handicap.

Claiming victory in 2009 was Eamonn Rohan in Blondie IV, a Mills Design King 40, while the Portcullis Trophy was awarded to Chapman / Reilly's Crazy Horse.

The event covers many entry levels classes with Class 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and the two White Sails classes. In addition to the Sovereign's Cup in 2011, there will be the added attraction of the Quarter Ton Class Championships which will be taking place concurrently.

The double hosting at the south-west venue will provide an added boost to Kinsale with new visitors particularly from Wales and the South of England. "We are encouraging people to start thinking about their travel and accommodation plans and are delighted that the Cork Swansea ferry will enable more sailors to access Kinsale easily from the UK," said Gary Hogan, Kinsale YC race director.