WHAT:
Yacht Race
WHERE:
Royal Thames Yacht Club, 60 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LF, UK
LOCATION:
WHEN:
13th July 1775
WHO:
The Cumberland Fleet, now known as the Royal Thames Yacht Club
DETAILS:
On July 13, 1775, the world’s first organized open invitation yacht race took place on the River Thames. Following an advertisement placed by the Duke of Cumberland in the Public Advertiser on July 6 calling for “Pleasure Sailing Boats,” participants raced from Westminster Bridge to Putney Bridge and back. This event marked the founding of the Royal Thames Yacht Club, originally established as The Cumberland Fleet. To commemorate this 250th anniversary, a suitable location along the historic route is currently being sought for the installation of a World Origin Site plaque.
LINKS:
Royal Thames Yacht Club Awarded Accreditation – December 2025
250 years ago on the 6th of July 1775 the Duke of Cumberland advertised in the Public Advertiser for participants to take part in a race for Pleasure Sailing Boats from Westminster Bridge to Putney Bridge and back. This race took place on the 13th of July 1775 and marks the first time that an organised open invitation yacht race took place. This race also marks the origins of the Royal Thames Yacht Club which was then known as The Cumberland Fleet. A suitable location for a World Origin Site plaque along the route is being sought.
