The Royal Ocean Racing Club also called RORC was established in 1925 as a result of a race to the Fastnet rock from Cowes and finishing in Plymouth. The RORC is the principal organiser of offshore yacht races in the UK, including the Fastnet race, the Admirals Cup and the Commodore’s Cup. RORC was founded to encourage long distance yacht racing and the design, building and navigation of sailing vessels in which speed and seaworthiness are combined.In co-operation with the French offshore racing club, UNCL, RORC is responsible for IRC, the principal international handicap system for yacht racing.

In order to qualify for membership, candidates must have completed 500 offshore racing miles within the last 5 years, including at least 1 RORC race. Provisional membership is available for a maximum of 2 years for those candidates who have some offshore experience but wish to complete the qualifying miles in the next 2 years before being promoted to a Full Member.

The Royal Ocean Racing Club clubhouse is conveniently located in a quiet cul-de-sac beside Green Park just two minutes from Central London and its historical attractions. Nowadays its is mostly used as a restaurant, a hotel and a place for events and social gatherings.