The centennial Newport-Bermuda Race is set to be the largest ever Atlantic ocean race and ? if boat owners flash their cash ? could still have the biggest fleet to race any ocean.

A remarkable 293 entrants have so far registered for the 100th anniversary edition of the 635-mile race, an increase of more than 100 on the previous record of 182.

But with the April 1 deadline passed, any boats now entering would be subject to additional financial penalties, limiting the chances of getting the extra ten vessels required to beat the record 303 competitors for the Fastnet race in 1979.

The centennial race, which leaves Rhode Island on June 16, has so far attracted a number of former winners as well as a whole host of sailors who have completed the crossing before but are keen to return for the celebration year.

Organisers are putting on a wide range of events both in Newport and Bermuda to mark the occasion while the Princess Royal will be the guest of honour at the official prizegiving at Government House.