West Bay set for high‑speed powerboat weekend racing

Powerboat racing off the coast at West Bay in 2025 <i>(Image: Graham Hunt Photography)</i>
Powerboat racing off the coast at West Bay in 2025 (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)
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West Bay is gearing up for a weekend of high‑octane action as Offshore Powerboat Circuit racing returns.

The event, which organisers describe as "fantastic for spectators of all ages", will see racing craft thundering around a circuit just off the coast, with the action visible from the seafront and harbour.

The main racing takes place from 11am on Saturday to 6pm on Sunday, with boats launching from the harbour slipway and running throughout the day subject to sea conditions.

Alongside the racing, there will be a bar, family entertainment, hot food and live music around the waterfront, turning the weekend into a wider community celebration as well as a sporting spectacle.

With West Bay already busy at this time of year, visitors are being encouraged to arrive early, make use of designated parking and follow marshal instructions to help keep the harbour area safe. 

Crowds watching the West BAy powerboat weekend last year (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

Spectators are asked to stay behind barriers, keep clear of the slipway during launches and recoveries, and listen to announcements over the public address system. 

West Bay has hosted national‑level offshore circuit racing in previous years, with earlier meetings drawing strong crowds and returning high‑speed action to the Dorset coast. 

This year’s event forms part of a wider calendar of powerboat fixtures along the south coast, following races off Bournemouth and Poole and adding to the area’s growing reputation for marine motorsport.

Anyone planning to attend is advised to check harbour and event websites or social media on the day for updates on timings, conditions and any last‑minute changes.

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