The race consists of a series of head-to-head races between the equivalent male and female squads at Bristol and UWE boat clubs. The club that wins the majority of these races is declared the overall winner of the race and awarded the Varsity trophy.

The event is similar to the well-known Oxford versus Cambridge Varsity Boat Race, except the Bristol race is shorter in distance and more intense. The course is 1.25 km and will take around four minutes to row out.

The competition will begin at 12 noon with the final set of races setting off at 2.10 pm. The races take place just past the SS Great Britain, finishing at Canon's Wharf Amphitheatre.

The Varsity Boat Race first began in 1995 and is held annually in the floating docks of Bristol town centre. As well as food and drinks, all spectators at the finish line will be entertained with live music and commentary on the day’s races. Entry is free.