Seaport and resort on the north coast of the
Isle of Wight, England, on the Medina
estuary, opposite Southampton Water;
population (1981) 19,500. It is the
headquarters of the Royal Yacht Squadron,
which holds the annual Cowes Regatta, and has
maritime industries. In East Cowes is Osborne
House, once a residence of Queen Victoria,
now used as a museum.