The invitation from the Baltic Exchange Sailing Association (BESA) looked tempting.

“If you have never sailed, don’t be daunted. This is a perfect chance to try it out!” it said.

So, sailing novices from the Young Baltic Association (YBA) headed to the Isle of Wight, off England's south coast, to compete for the Finn Trophy in one of the City of London's premier regattas.

However, testing conditions on 21 September forced one or two boats to return to port early as choppy seas tossed them around in sunny but windy conditions.

At least one captain lamented the sight of competitors “strewn across the decks with seasickness”.

“Clearly being a nightmare for some YBAers, I made the call to withdraw,” admitted BESA honorary secretary Philip Bacon, sailing with the YBA crew on a vessel named the Jellyfish.

Captain Phlip Bacon gets ready to lead crew of the Jellyfish for the Finn Trophy Photo: Ian Lewis

That left the trophy battle to seasoned sailors.

Usually, the annual sailing regatta sees flotillas from the Baltic Exchange battle against yachts from the London Stock Exchange and Lloyd's of London. This year, they were joined by teams from the Bank of England and the Portcullis Sailing Club.

The event was originally established to encourage competition and camaraderie between the markets.

The crews raced a dedicated course on the Solent, starting at the Island Sailing Club in Cowes.

The day ended with dinner at the Royal Yacht Squadron, said to be possibly the most prestigious yacht club in the UK.

(From left) Maria Bitri of Clarksons Platou, Atakan Perisan of K Line Bulk, Orlando Browne of Swire Bulk and Rebecca Rowe of the UK P&I Club at the Royal Yacht Squadron on the Isle of Wight Photo: Ian Lewis