One of the Isle of Wight's most iconic events — Cowes Week 2023 — is officially underway!

Action on the water starts tomorrow (Saturday, July 29), but there's plenty to keep visitors busy shoreside from today (Friday).

The Regatta Village will line the parade and there will be things to do at both Cowes Yacht Haven and at Northwood House.

On the parade there will be a wide range of retailers, local businesses and charities, including The Royal Navy and the Tall Ships Youth Trust.

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Also on site will be The Sea Changes Village Bar, Ale for Sail and The Isle of Wight Cocktail Lounge, where you can grab a drink (or two).

A selection of food will be available, and there will be live music from 12pm to 11pm, each day.

  • This year's official Cowes Week programme has been produced in association with the County Press.

The Yacht Haven's main hospitality area will be open between 10am and 11pm. As with years gone by, there will be a small stage with evening musical entertainment, food and a bar.

Among the musicians performing throughout the week, at various venues, include local acts Blonde Bombshell, Emily Wild and Ben Stubbs. The entertainment schedule can be seen on the Cowes Week app, in the official programme or on the Cowes Week website.

Northwood House has a full programme of attactions and entertainment, including the Tea Gardens (open daily between 11am and 5pm).

The Lawn Bar Mermaid Garden is back with nightly, live music. It will be open from lunchtime and will be free to enter before 9pm, most nights.

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New for 2023, Northwood House is playing host to an art and light experience set in a large inflatable structure. Tickets must be bought in advance.

On August 3 and 6, a family tree climbing experience comes to Northwood Park.

Lining the town centre throughout the day will be musicians, hair-braiding and other attractions.

Prize giving is once again being held in the event centre at Cowes Yacht Haven on finale Friday, with competitors invited to a free Musto closing party.

The Royal Navy Guardship will perform its ceremonial role for the whole of the Regatta.

Visitors wanting to get a closer look at the ship and the Cowes Week racing action can book a slot on a Spectator Boat, which heads out from Trinity Landing three times a day.