The Taoiseach officially opened Cork Week 2026 at the Royal Cork Yacht Club in Crosshaven on Sunday, (July 5th) launching one of Ireland's biggest sailing events before competitors from Ireland and overseas take to the water this week.
More than 120 boats and an estimated 6,000 sailors, support crews and visitors are expected at the biennial regatta, which runs from 6-10 July and includes both the Irish Cruiser Racing Association (ICRA) Championships and the Etchells European Championship.
Welcoming guests to the opening ceremony, Royal Cork Yacht Club Admiral Denis Byrne described the occasion as "the highlight of my term" and reflected on the event's enduring appeal.
"Cork Week first occurred in 1978 and the event has endured ever since, surviving recessions, pandemics and several other crises along the way," he said.
Byrne said sailors had travelled from across every province and county in Ireland as well as from Scotland, Wales, England, France, Hong Kong, California and Australia.
"We are especially grateful to those who have travelled great distances to be with us," he said. "You are all assured of the legendary welcome that every visitor to the Royal Cork Yacht Club receives."
The admiral said Cork Week had grown beyond a sailing regatta to become an event built on friendships as well as competition.
Cork Week 2026 Opens at Royal Cork Yacht Club Photo Gallery by Bob Bateman
"Cork Week is not just about racing. It is equally about creating enduring bonds and friendships," he said.
This year's edition combines several major championships. Alongside the ICRA Championships, the Etchells European Championship has attracted international competitors, while the Beaufort Cup again sees crews from uniformed services competing throughout the week, including an offshore race around the Fastnet Rock.
Byrne praised the organising committee, chaired by Ross Deasy, along with club volunteers and staff who had spent more than a year preparing the event.
He also acknowledged the support of Irish Sailing, Cork County Council, the Port of Cork and a wide range of commercial partners whose backing helps deliver the regatta.
The opening follows Sunday's Family Day, which welcomed visitors to the Crosshaven waterfront with children's activities and coastal attractions before racing begins.
Racing continues throughout the week, with the popular Harbour Race scheduled for Wednesday. Shoreside entertainment includes daily après-sail events, live music and the Cork Week Ladies' Day charity lunch in aid of Crosshaven RNLI.
As Afloat reported previously, Cork Week 2026 also incorporates two of the season's biggest championships, reinforcing the regatta's status as one of the premier sailing events in Irish waters.
