An all-female crew at Cowes Week, organised in collaboration between Sunsail and the RYA, spotlighted the need for greater representation and leadership opportunities for women in sailing.
For the first time, Sunsail and the RYA brought an all-female crew to Cowes Week 2025, marking a significant milestone in the sailing community. The event has long been regarded as one of the most prestigious sailing regattas in the world, making this bold initiative a noteworthy step toward inclusivity. “It’s a meaningful step,” said Katrina Lawson, Head of Brand and Acquisitions at Sunsail. Lawson emphasized that bringing together an all-women crew led by experienced female skippers showcases a collective commitment to making sailing more open and collaborative.
The Sunsail/RYA all-female crew competing in the Prometheus 41s class at Cowes Week 2025.
The crew was not merely focused on competition; they aimed to highlight the importance of representation and leadership for women in the sailing industry. Despite the fact that women comprise just over half of Sunsail’s customers, a stark statistic shows that only 7% of lead skippers are women. Lawson remarked, “Women are sailing, training, and contributing at every level, but too few are stepping into leadership roles as skippers.” This disparity indicates an urgent need for transformation within the sailing community.
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has observed a positive trend in female participation, with nearly a quarter of its Day Skipper certificates awarded to women since 2012. Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training, sees this as evidence of progress but acknowledges that a significant journey lies ahead. “Achieving greater representation in sailing both on the water and in leadership isn’t something any single organisation can deliver alone,” he notes. “It’s a challenge for the whole community, which begins with visibility, role models, and opportunities.” Falk advocates for clearer pathways into sailing jobs and training as essential for addressing the gender gap.
The Sunsail/RYA all-female crew celebrating post-race.
The all-female crew at Cowes Week 2025 was an eclectic mix of talents, with members ranging from industry professionals to casual sailors, and varying experience levels—from first-time racers to seasoned RYA Yachtmasters. While they ultimately placed third in the Prometheus 41s class, Lawson highlighted that the race results were secondary to the larger goals of teamwork, confidence-building, and adventure. “This wasn’t about winning,” she stated. “We know real change takes time. But giving visibility to women’s stories and leadership in sailing is something we can all start doing now.”
This initiative is not just a flash in the pan. It represents a growing movement within the sailing community to encourage women to join the ranks of skippers and industry leaders. By challenging long-held stereotypes and breaking down barriers, the all-female crew at Cowes Week serves as a powerful example of what’s possible when women take the helm—both literally and figuratively. Whether through dedicated programs or informal gatherings, the community is awakening to the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive regardless of gender.