The annual Blackwater Sailing Barge Match proved quite a spectacle for captive spectators at the weekend.

Eleven barges and 11 smacks and bawleys raced against each other on the River Blackwater, starting and finishing at Osea Island.

Over 100 spectators positioned along the Quay and Promenade Park turned up to watch the 51st race.

The 11 barges were divided into the wooden staysails, ironpots and bowsprit classes, each setting off 15 minutes apart.

The smack Alberta, skippered by Robin Page, was the fastest vessel to complete the course which she did in 5 hours, 3 minutes and 7 seconds.

See this week's MBS for the full story.