Flying start for Cowes Week

Sailing reached new heights as hundreds flocked to see boats “flying” across the water for the first time around the Island.

Spectators watched in awe as a fleet of Moth boats raced above the water to kick-start this year’s sailing regatta.

Their debut sparked interest up and down the coastline, as seasoned seamen and sailing novices were left spellbound at the sight of the small dinghies floating above the water.

Reaching speeds of up to 30 knots, the Moth sailors showcased their hydrofoil vessels, demonstrating their unique abilities.

Racing slalom style courses off Egypt point, alongside the Extreme 40s, former world champion and current European world champion Simon Payne didn’t fail to impress the crowds.

Speaking to the Daily Echo, he said: “People just aren’t used to seeing boats flying I guess.

“They are fast, small and simple, they are easy to follow and watch and that’s why people are interested in them.

“Most of us are local and have sailed around here most of our lives, but we have never flown around it before.

“This is the first time Moths have been at Cowes and it is because of their crowd-catching ability that we are here.

“I think this event is fantastic, wonderful, and it is great that we can get so far inshore that people can see us. Sailing is changing and it is changing for the better. You don’t have to disappear into the Southern Ocean to enjoy yourselves these days.”

Cowes veteran John Hornby could not put his binoculars down as he watched the Moths from the green.

The 76-year-old said: “What a spectacle they are. I think it is the future. They are amazing to watch because they are like nothing I have ever seen before.”

And while Simon and his team were the hot new trend on the water, back on shore spectators were making sure they were making waves on the fashion front.

Women and men alike donned their deck shoes and sunglasses, ensuring the glamour of the regatta wasn’t restricted to the seas.