August 2019 Newsletter – Sails and Sales

August on the Solent is all about boating – particularly yacht racing.  Since 1826 the highlight has been Cowes Week, initially called ‘The Regatta’ and organised by the Royal Yacht Squadron.  Above is a preparatory ‘grisaille’ watercolour for a proposed painting of the royal racing yacht ‘Britannia’ to be presented to King George V by the King’s Sailing Master, Sir Philip Hunloke, also Commodore of the RYS.  ‘Britannia’ is depicted racing with the sail number K1 and flying the royal signal flag at the masthead.  The Squadron castle and signal mast are visible in the background.  The royal yacht ‘Victoria and Albert’, carrying spectators and flying the royal standard, can be seen astern.