With all the talk of tinsel and turkey about to begin, we must not forget that enjoying time on the water happens whatever the weather.

So whether you are looking for a fun event or a serious adventure to embark on for next year, Boatshed have complied a list with some of our favourites – if you know of one that you think we should hear about, drop us a line, we’d love to hear from you marieparton@boatshed.com

Penang Dragon Boat – 12 & 13th December, Teluk Bahang Dam

Join crews from the Philippines, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Thailand and Malaysia in this wonderful race. As a particpant or a spectator, I’m sure this would be a race unlike any other.

For more details - click here

Dublin Bay’s annual Turkey Shoot – 20th December, Royal Irish Yacht Club, Dun Laoghaire, South Dublin

From November 1st 78 boats have been racing each Sunday morning culminating on Sunday 20th December with a fancy dress race and prize-giving party in the prestigious Royal Irish Yacht Club in aid of the RNLI.

Interestingly any competitor boat that takes out a non–sailor (new to sailing) as a crew member gets a 2% discount on it’s handicap that day. So if you are new to sailing, you’d probably be very welcome to join one of the crews.

To read about the Turkey Shoot pluck here

Boxing Day Raft Race, December 26th at 12.30, Scarborough Harbour

Enjoy the annual Boxing Day festivities, organised by the Sub Aqua Club. Cheer on the festive fun and games between the fancy-dressed teams as they battle to win the race in their hilarious home-made rafts!

Scarborough Harbour, Sandside, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO11 1PD

Matlock Raft Race, December 26th at 10am on River Derwent

Matlock Raft Race beganin the early 1960's to raise cash for the RNLI, and every Boxing Day 40 or so craft begin the race over a four-mile course along the River Derwent. The rafts are an assortment of home-made vessels, some made for racing and others for comic effect with their crew in appropriate fancy dress. It is usual for some to sink or disintegrate long before the finish, particularly near the hazard of the weir by Masson Mill!

For more information click here

Adventures to consider for 2016

Race to Alaska

Sail, row or paddle all the way from Victoria British Columbia to Alaska starting June 23rd 2016.

The physical endurance, saltwater know-how and bulldog tenacity to navigate the 750 cold water miles from the Lower 48 to Alaska. We’ll guarantee blisters, mild hypothermia, and the cathartic elation that comes from accomplishing something others would call impossible. And if you cross the line first we’ll hand you a pile of cash.

Last year 35 teams started and only 15 finished! There is a shorter 40 miles 'proving ground' if you don't fancy padding the 710 miles.

Tickle your tastebuds? then click here

The St Kilda Challenge – June 9-11th 2016

All sailors are welcome to join this unique challenging Hebridean event. Throughout the planned three day event there will be a rich diverse onshore programme of cultural, educational and musical events.

The course is racing from Lochmaddy, North Uist to St Kilda.

For more information click here.

The Three Peaks Yacht Race – June 11th 2016

If you have an adventurous spirit then this may just be the challenge for you.

Sail up the wild west coast and run to the summits of Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis, the highest peaks of Wales, England & Scotland. A classic adventure race for teams of runners and sailors, since 1977.

Like to find out more?