Portrush RNLI Raft Race 2026 confirmed as entries open for much-loved town tradition
- Love Ballymena
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
One of the North Coast’s most eagerly anticipated community events is officially back, with organisers confirming that the Portrush RNLI Raft Race 2026 will take place on Saturday 23 May.
The much-loved annual fundraiser, which draws rafters, families and spectators from across the area, is once again being staged in aid of RNLI Portrush, with entries now officially open.
Organisers say the event is “all systems go”, with extensive planning already under way behind the scenes to prepare for what promises to be another lively day in the seaside town.
Entries now live as fee held at £150
Portrush Yacht Club has launched its Eventbrite registration page for teams wishing to take part in the famously madcap race, while confirming that the entry fee will remain unchanged at £150 this year.
That decision is likely to be welcomed by returning teams and newcomers alike as preparations begin for the popular charity spectacle, which has become a firm fixture in the local calendar.
The entry link is now live for rafters wishing to secure their place:
Full day of activities planned
As well as the race itself, organisers have confirmed that this year’s event will once again incorporate a full day of fun activities, continuing the family-friendly atmosphere that has helped make the raft race such a long-standing success.
While the full programme has yet to be revealed, organisers have hinted that familiar favourites will return alongside some fresh additions.
In a statement, 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.”
He added:
“Once again, we are looking forward to seeing all the great rafts and enjoying the usual craic that Raft Race brings to the town.”
That reference to the “usual craic” will strike a chord with many locals and visitors who have come to associate the event with colourful homemade rafts, big crowds and a lively festival atmosphere across Portrush.
Strong backing from local sponsors and community
Organisers have also confirmed strong support from the local business community, with sponsors once again stepping forward to back the event.
Mr Simmonds said:
“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.”
That continued backing underlines the event’s place as not only a major fundraiser for the lifeboat service, but also a significant community occasion for the town.
RNLI and Yacht Club leaders say tradition continues
Further support for the return of the event came from Beni McAllister, Lifeboat Operations Manager at RNLI Portrush and Commodore of Portrush Yacht Club.
He said organisers are now fully focused on the end-of-May date.
Mr McAllister 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.”
The event has long held a special place for lifeboat crew members, volunteers and their families, with generations in the Portrush area having taken part either on the water or from the shoreline.
Programme details to follow
Organisers have said the full programme will be announced soon, teasing a mix of established favourites and some changes for 2026.
They said supporters should “watch this space”, suggesting more details on activities, entertainment and race-day plans are expected in the coming weeks.
For now, attention turns to teams preparing their rafts ahead of what is expected to be another memorable day in support of the town’s lifeboat service.
Link for entries is now LIVE!
At a glance
Portrush RNLI Raft Race 2026 will take place on 23 May 2026
The annual fundraising event supports RNLI Portrush
Entry applications are now open via ****
Entry fee has been held at £150
A full day of fun activities is planned
Organisers say the full programme, including favourites and new changes, will be announced soon
Local sponsors are again backing the event
