The Drascombe Association Ireland recently hosted its biennial Fastnet Rally in Baltimore, bringing together a fleet of traditional trailer-sailers for four days of cruising along one of Ireland's most spectacular coastlines.
Thirty boats, with crews travelling from across the island of Ireland and one visiting crew from North Wales, took part in what is regarded as the highlight of the Association's 2026 sailing programme.
Based out of Baltimore Sailing Club, the rally featured a series of day cruises to East Skeam, Audley Cove, North Harbour on Cape Clear and a full circumnavigation of Sherkin Island. One of the standout moments came on Saturday, when 27 boats reached Cape Clear, with six crews continuing on to Fastnet Rock in light conditions to complete a memorable offshore passage.
As well as the sailing, participants enjoyed a Rally Dinner hosted by Baltimore Sailing Club, providing an opportunity for crews to share stories from the water and celebrate another successful gathering of the Irish Drascombe community.
The Association's busy cruising calendar continues throughout the summer with a multi-day cruise along the Galway coast, participation in the Cruinniú na mBád Festival in Kinvara this August, a weekend rally on Blessington Lakes, and two season-ending cruises through Lough Key, Drumshanbo and Lough Allen in September.
The Drascombe Association Ireland welcomes owners of Drascombe boats and other traditional-style trailer-sailers inspired by the designs of John Watkinson to take part in future rallies and enjoy relaxed cruising in some of Ireland's finest sailing waters.