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 – 10th & 11th 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 – Sunday 18th December, Royal Irish Yacht Club, Dun Laoghaire, South Dublin

From November 6th 61 boats have been racing each Sunday morning culminating on Sunday 18th 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

Click here to see more.

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