Setting sail for this year’s Portrush Raft Race

IT’S all systems go for Raft Race 2026!
The madcap event loved by so many is being held on Saturday, 23rd May 2026, incorporating a full day of fun activities.
The event as always is in aid of RNLI Portrush and lots of work has been going on behind the scenes to get ready for the big event.
Portrush Yacht Club has launched an Eventbrite for all Rafters to apply and have held the entry fee this year to £150.
Karl Simmonds, General Manager at Portrush Yacht Club said: “We have worked hard with RNLI representatives and our own team and we now have a great format that works for all of us to create a unique event for all the rafters, families and friends of Portrush RNLI.
“Once again, we are looking forward to seeing all the great rafts and enjoying the usual craic that Raft Race brings to the town.
“We have a lot of local sponsors who have agreed to sponsor us again and we are excited to work with our local community to make Raft Race 2026 a locally run event and we thank them all for their support.”
Beni McAllister Lifeboat Operations Manager at Portrush RNLI and Commodore of Portrush Yacht Club added, “We are ready to go for end May and we are very excited about continuing this tradition that our crew and our families love.
“Watch this space for our full programme to be announced soon...some old favourites and some changes on the way!”
The link for entries is now live on the Portrush Raft Race website.