The Inshore Series consists of three races for two classes of yachts.

1 IRC (IRC stands for International Rating Certificate, a system for handicapping sailboats and yachts for racing. It is managed by the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC)

2 ISCRS (ISCRS stands for "Island Sailing Club Rating System," a simplified boat rating system used primarily for the Round the Island Race and other events organized by the Island Sailing Club. It allows even less frequent racing boats to participate with a readily calculated rating based on their dimensions and weight; essentially, it's a free system for cruisers who want to compete in races without needing a complex IRC rating.) This rating system was first introduced in 1997.

The series started when the Inshore Race was introduced in 1997.  

The first race (Christchurch Bay/Poole Bay) is early in the season (Approx. May). The first race for the Leonowens Trophy was in 1956.

The second race (Solent Race) is mid-season (approximately June). The Malleson Bowl's first race was in 1997 when the Inshore Series was introduced.

The third race (Nab Tower) is at the end of the season (Approx. September). The first race for the Bob Savage Cup was in 1955.

Some of the Trophies have been used for previous races and regattas.