A once in a lifetime trip, this sailing experience gift is perfect for anyone who loves a challenge! Experience the thrill of sailing around the infamous 60 mile course, which circles the Isle of Wight aboard an exciting, proven Ocean Race Yacht.

This trip provides the perfect opportunity to take these Ocean Race Yachts into the open water for which they were designed. Whether it's taking the helm as we speed past the Needles, or changing sails on the front of the yacht whilst she crashes through the waves of St. Catherine’s Deep, this is a trip that leaves unforgettable memories. It is a long, but exhilarating day and well worth it!

Participants join the yacht at the 8am for a quick safety brief, before we motor to the beginning of the course off Cowes. Then sails are hoisted and the yacht powers up the Solent towards the Needles.

It is hands-on as everyone takes part in all aspects of crewing these exciting vessels from helming to sail changes and trimming. A fast but fun day out, there will be lots to do, although there is also normally time to sit on the high side and enjoy the ride.

There is something magical about sailing around the Island and for both experienced sailors and those relatively new to the sport, this is a sailing experience gift that is always well received!

Useful notes:

Where we sail: On the Solent, from Southampton in 2010 (Hamble in 2011)

Event time: 8am to 7pm (the finish time can sometimes be earlier – weather permitting!)

Maximum participants: 12

Boat: Clipper 60 Taeping

When: Selected midweek dates from April to September, approx twice a month.

Participants must be at least 16 to come on this day and if they are 16 or 17 they must book with a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit, however you must have a reasonable level of mobility in order to move around the yacht unaided.

Most frequently asked question about this trip:

Does the recipient have to have previous sailing experience to come on a Round the Island Day?

No, but we do recommend it! The Round the Island Day can last up to eleven hours, which is a long time if someone finds that they don’t enjoy sailing, therefore we recommend participants have some previous sailing experience. However if you know they enjoy a challenge and like being out on the water, then they may well enjoy the Round the Island Day as their first trip out on a yacht and it will certainly be a gift they'll never forget!!