Newport to Bermuda Race organisers are bracing themselves for what is expected to be one of the largest race fleets in the history of the 635 nautical mile crossing.

To date some 200 boats have already been nominated for participation. But with another 15 skippers having begun the entry process, race organisers predict up to 220 boats will be on the starting line off Castle Hill in Newport on June 20, making it the second largest fleet in the history of the race, surpassed only by the 264 entries in the 2006 centennial event.

All accepted yachts have until mid-May to complete the entry process.

Richard Shulman, race participation chairman, said: "What's exciting about the applications thus far is that out of the 200 entries we have in hand, 72 are boats new to the race and 45 skippers are Newport Bermuda Race first-timers as well.

"These new entries are primarily sailors with solid amateur programmes and substantial near-shore racing experience. The Newport Bermuda Race organisation has a long history of commitment to safety, and is dedicated to supporting sailors in their quest to participate in blue water sailing in one of the world's classic ocean races.

"It's the perfect venue for sailors who are ready to step up to their first 'thrash to the Onion Patch.' This race across the Gulf Stream has become a rite of passage for sailors, and has divisions tailored for the most amateur corinthian crews to the highest-profile professional programs."

In addition to the big group of newcomers and the traditional core of amateur-crewed racer/cruisers, the race is attracting sailing celebrities and some fast boats eyeing first-to-finish laurels in several divisions.

Nick Nicholson, chairman for this year's race, revealed: "One of our recent entries is George David's 90-foot Rambler, which has been setting elapsed-time records and winning corrected-time victories in races all over the world.

"Rambler won't have an easy time in her push for line honours. Her usual racing skipper, Ken Read, will be driving his new Volvo Open 70 Puma, making her offshore racing debut prior to the 2008 Volvo Ocean Race.

"The new Juan K 30-metre canting-keel Speedboat, nearing completion in New Zealand, will also debut in the Open Division alongside Puma."

Stan Honey, winning navigator of the 2005-2006 Volvo Ocean race aboard ABN Amro 1, will be guiding Speedboat down the Newport to Bermuda course.