Portrush Raft Race 2026 Set For May Return In Aid Of RNLI

Preparations are underway for the return of the Portrush Raft Race, with organisers confirming the popular community event will take place on 23 May 2026.

The annual raft race, which raises funds for RNLI Portrush, will once again bring a full day of activities to the town. Organisers say planning has been ongoing behind the scenes to ensure the event runs smoothly.

Portrush Yacht Club has launched an Eventbrite page for teams wishing to take part in the raft race. The entry fee for 2026 has been set at £150.

Karl Simmonds, General Manager at Portrush Yacht Club, said organisers had worked closely with RNLI representatives to develop a format that works for everyone involved.

“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 said.

“Once again, we are looking forward to seeing all the great rafts and enjoying the usual craic that Raft Race brings to the town.”

He added that local businesses were continuing to support the event.

“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,” he said.

Beni McAllister, Lifeboat Operations Manager at Portrush RNLI and Commodore of Portrush Yacht Club, said organisers were preparing for the end-of-May event.

“We are ready to go for the end of May and we are very excited about continuing this tradition that our crew and our families love,” he said.

Organisers said a full programme of events would be announced in the coming weeks, with a mix of returning favourites and some changes planned for 2026.

To register your interest, click here.