The Blackwater Smack & Barge Match is one of the highlights of the sailing season for barge owners and crew, and approximately 10 majestic Thames Sailing Barges and around the same number of smaller fishing Smacks are expected to join this year's race. The boats leave Maldon in the morning to head to the start of the race at Osea Island Pier , then they sail out towards Bradwell-on-Sea, so can be seen all along the coast, with great views expected from Promenade Park, Heybridge Basin, St Lawrence Bay and Bradwell Marina at various points during the day. They return to Osea and then to Maldon in the afternoon, but the exact times and route of the race will be determined on the day.

There are several different classes in the race:

Bowsprit - these are the fastest barges , and expected participants include Blue Mermaid, Mirosa and Edme

Senior Staysail - includes Reminder, operated by Topsail Charters and Wyvenhoe

Coasting Class - includes Centaur from the Thames Sailing Barge Trust

It's also possible to go out on a barge, and to stay overnight in some cases, to watch the event, see Blackwater Barge Race - Topsail Charters (top-sail.co.uk)