A Traditional Highland Games Yacht Race
The Vice Admiral's Cup is one of the most distinctive events in the Skye Sailing Club calendar, combining competitive yacht racing with the atmosphere and tradition of the Isle of Skye Highland Games.
Held in and around Portree Bay during Highland Games week, the race brings together local and visiting crews to compete for the historic Vice Admiral Sir Roderick MacDonald KBE Memorial Cup. With racing taking place against the dramatic backdrop of Portree Harbour and the Cuillin hills, the event offers a memorable day on the water for sailors and spectators alike.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday 4 August 2026
Location: Portree Bay, Isle of Skye
Organised by: Skye Sailing Club in association with the Isle of Skye Highland Games
A pre-race briefing will be held on Portree Pier before racing. Final sailing instructions and start times will be confirmed closer to the event.
Racing in the Heart of Highland Games Week
The Vice Admiral's Cup forms part of the long-standing sailing programme associated with the Isle of Skye Highland Games. Alongside the athletics, piping, dancing and other traditional events taking place throughout the week, the yacht race adds a unique maritime element to one of Skye's most celebrated annual gatherings.
The race is open to keelboats and welcomes both experienced racers and crews looking to enjoy competitive sailing in one of Scotland's most spectacular coastal settings.
The Trophy
The winner receives the Vice Admiral Sir Roderick MacDonald KBE Memorial Cup, a trophy with a proud history within Skye sailing. The names engraved on the cup reflect decades of competition in Portree Bay and the continuing tradition of yacht racing around the Isle of Skye.
Why Sail the Vice Admiral's Cup?
- Competitive keelboat racing in Portree Bay
- Part of the Isle of Skye Highland Games programme
- Spectacular views of the Cuillin and surrounding coastline
- Friendly racing and post-race social atmosphere
- A chance to compete for a historic sailing trophy
Explore More Sailing Around Skye
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Entry Information
Entry details, sailing instructions and briefing information will be published here nearer the event date.
If you are interested in taking part, please contact Skye Sailing Club or follow our social media channels for updates.
We look forward to welcoming local and visiting crews to Portree for another edition of the Vice Admiral's Cup.
About Sailing in Portree Bay
Portree Bay offers some of the most scenic yacht racing conditions in Scotland. Surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of the Isle of Skye and overlooked by the Cuillin mountains, the bay provides an excellent venue for keelboat racing and cruising alike.
The Vice Admiral's Cup forms part of Skye Sailing Club's annual programme of yacht racing events, alongside Midsummer in the Minch and the Round Raasay Race, attracting sailors from across Skye, the Highlands and the west coast of Scotland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Vice Admiral's Cup?
The Vice Admiral's Cup is an annual yacht race organised by Skye Sailing Club as part of the Isle of Skye Highland Games sailing programme. Competitors race for the historic Vice Admiral Sir Roderick MacDonald KBE Memorial Cup.
When is the Vice Admiral's Cup held?
The 2026 Vice Admiral's Cup will take place on Tuesday 4 August 2026 during Highland Games week on the Isle of Skye.
Where does the race take place?
The race is held in and around Portree Bay on the Isle of Skye. The exact course may vary depending on weather and sea conditions, with final sailing instructions issued before the event.
Who can enter the Vice Admiral's Cup?
The event is open to eligible keelboats and welcomes both local and visiting crews. Entry requirements and sailing instructions will be published before the race.
Is the race suitable for visiting yachts?
Yes. Visiting yachts are encouraged to take part and experience racing in one of Scotland's most spectacular sailing locations. Portree provides an excellent base for crews visiting Skye for Highland Games week.
How long is the race?
The exact course and distance vary from year to year depending on conditions and race planning. Competitors should refer to the official sailing instructions issued before the event.
What can spectators expect?
Spectators can enjoy views of racing yachts in Portree Bay set against the dramatic backdrop of the Cuillin mountains and the colourful waterfront of Portree Harbour. The race forms part of the wider Isle of Skye Highland Games celebrations.
What is the Vice Admiral Sir Roderick MacDonald Memorial Cup?
The trophy is a historic silver cup awarded to the winner of the Vice Admiral's Cup. It is one of Skye Sailing Club's traditional trophies and reflects the long-standing connection between sailing and the Isle of Skye Highland Games.
How do I enter?
Entry details, notices of race and sailing instructions will be published on the Skye Sailing Club website before the event. You can also follow Skye Sailing Club on social media for the latest updates.
Are there other yacht racing events organised by Skye Sailing Club?
Yes. Skye Sailing Club organises several keelboat racing events throughout the season, including Midsummer in the Minch and the Round Raasay Race, as well as regular club racing and cruising activities.
