yacht racing san francisco

SailGP set to make waves in San Francisco with millions at stake

By virgil aspen • published july 12, 2024 • updated on july 13, 2024 at 2:11 pm.

SailGP, an international sailboat racing circuit, backed by Oracle founder Larry Ellison and well-respected sailor Russell Coutts, is set to host its final, championship races in the San Francisco Bay this weekend, with the grand prize for the winning team amounting to $2 million.

The competition, whose founder Ellison was once quoted professing his love for the "idyllic independence" of sailing and has been touted as Formula One on the waves by Coutts, was founded in 2018 with the hopes of taking competitive sailing beyond cloistered country clubs and propel it into the mainstream.

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"What we're seeing is [that] this isn't the avid sailing fan that's following SailGP, maybe 10% of our audience is that. It's really the racing fan, the general sports fan, and it's also the people that are interested in the backstory of our athletes," said Coutts in a Friday interview with CNBC , adding later that he doesn't feel it would be unreasonable for teams to be selling for $80 million price tags sometime in the next year.

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This tidal wave of success can be attributed to a number of factors, but by far, the sport's most profound sea change has been the advent of F50 catamarans, sailboats capable of navigating the waves at highway speeds, velocities long thought impossible by sailors in years past.

"[Our sailboats are] above the water, not in the water, and our goal is to stay flying as long as possible," said Peter Kinney, a California native and sailor for the United States' SailGP team.

SailGP's rising current of broad appeal can be attributed to other factors as well, namely its inclusivity to women and its commitment to sustainability . On its website, it says that the organization is "...racing for a better future and believe sport has the power to change the world."

San Francisco as a location was a perfect fit for a climactic race in the eyes of the organizers.

"San Francisco is really the best racetrack. The breeze is consistent, and the sailors love it," said Alex Reid, SailGP's director of performance engineering. Others, such as Team USA strategist Mike Buckley, describe the Bay as "one of the most beautiful places in the world to sail."

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These favorable conditions, combined with such a large prize being on the line, leaves confidence high that each team involved will be in close competition all the way through, as sailors try their hardest to be the first to surge across the finish line.

"We're expecting the race to be tight, exciting, racing on the edge," Buckley said.

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Published on July 11th, 2024 | by Editor

SailGP: Five things to watch in San Francisco

Published on July 11th, 2024 by Editor -->

The 13-event schedule for SailGP Season 4 concludes July 13-14 in San Francisco, USA.  It will be the final racing for the 10-boat fleet, with the top three teams in the season standing advancing to one last race in which the winner claims the overall season title and the $2 million USD prize. Here are five things to watch for when racing gets underway:

Spain vs France in fleet racing It’s a congested top half of the leaderboard, with just five points separating Spain in third place and France in fourth. This means there’s everything to play for when fleet racing begins, with France gunning to beat Spain and steal their spot in the Grand Final. Can Spain hold the French off? Or will Quentin Delapierre’s squad swoop in and claim fleet racing victory?

Will New Zealand convert stellar season into Championship title? It’s been an incredible season for Peter Burling’s New Zealand, which is the only team so far qualified for the winner-takes-all, $2 million Grand Final. But the Kiwis came so close to winning the Season 3 title, losing out to fierce rivals Australia in the final seconds of the race. Will they choke again, or can they hold on to claim the ultimate victory?

Can the Australians battle back to claim a 4th Championship title Triple champions Australia meanwhile have had an uncharacteristically lukewarm season, with only one event win despite being in eight Finals. But driver Tom Slingsby has reemphasized that the Aussies have ‘never been beaten in San Francisco’. Will this remain true in Season 4’s showdown?

Will other teams play spoiler? According to the points, it’s mathematically probable that two teams out of Australia, France, and Spain will join New Zealand in the Grand Final showdown. But points are tight – with Canada and Emirates GBR just four behind France. Could stellar performances from these teams, combined with poor performances from others, completely reshuffle the leaderboard when racing gets underway?

Who will come at the bottom of the fleet? It’s been another tough season for Switzerland, and a steep learning curve for Germany in their debut season. With just two points separating Switzerland in 10th and Germany in 9th, there’s all to play for to avoid being the team at the bottom of the fleet.

SailGP’s Season 4 Grand Final in San Francisco takes place July 13-14, with racing from 2.30 pm PDT.

SailGP information – San Francisco details – YouTube – How to watch

Season 4 Standings (after 12 of 13 events; results and total points) 1. New Zealand (Peter Burling), 1-7-8-DNC/6-4-1-1-3-1-2-5-1; 93 points 2. Australia (Tom Slingsby), 2-3-2-2-3-2-7-1-10-3-7-4; 78 3. Spain (Diego Botin), 5-1-3-6-6-10-2-5-4-1-4-7; 76 4. France (Quintin Delapierre), 6-8-6-4-7-4-4-4-2-9-2-5; 71 5. Canada (Phil Robertson), 3-4-10-5-5-3-6-10-3-4-6-2; 67 6. Denmark (Nicolai Sehested), 4-2-4-7-2-6-9-2-9-5-3-8; 67 7. Great Britain (Ben Ainslie/Giles Scott), 7-6-1-1-8-5-8-7-7-8-1-3; 66 8. United States (Jimmy Spithill/Taylor Canfield), 9-5-5-3-1-8-3-9-8-10-10-10; 51 9. Germany (Erik Heil), 10-10-7-8-9-10-9-5-6-5-6-8-9; 35 10. Switzerland (Sebastien Schneiter/Nathan Outteridge), 8-9-9-9-7-10-8-6-7-9-6; 33

For scoring adjustments, click here .

Season 4 – 2023 June 16-17 – United States Sail Grand Prix | Chicago at Navy Pier July 22-23 – United States Sail Grand Prix | Los Angeles September 9-10 – France Sail Grand Prix | Saint-Tropez September 23-24 – Italy Sail Grand Prix | Taranto October 14-15 – Spain Sail Grand Prix | Andalucía- Cádiz December 9-10 – Dubai Sail Grand Prix | Dubai*

Season 4 – 2024 January 13-14 – Abu Dhabi Sail Grand Prix | Abu Dhabi February 24-25 – Australia Sail Grand Prix | Sydney March 23-24 – New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Auckland March 23-24 – New Zealand Sail Grand Prix | Christchurch May 4-5 – Bermuda Sail Grand Prix June 1-2 – Canada Sail Grand Prix | Halifax June 22-23 – United States Sail Grand Prix | New York July 13-14 – SailGP Season 4 Grand Final | San Francisco * Added October 3, 2023

Format for Season 4: • Teams compete in identical F50 catamarans. • Each event runs across two days. • Up to seven qualifying fleet races of approximately 15 minutes may be scheduled for each regatta. • The top three teams from qualifying advance to a final race to be crowned event champion and earn the largest share of the $300,000.00 USD event prize money purse (increases to $400k for Abu Dhabi with the winning team now earning $200k at each event). • The season ends with the Grand Final, which includes the Championship Final Race for the top three teams in the season standing with the winner claiming the $2 million USD prize. • The top team on points ahead of the three-boat Championship Final will be awarded $350,000.00.

For competition documents, click here .

Established in 2018, SailGP seeks to be an annual, global sports league featuring fan-centric inshore racing among national teams in some of the iconic harbors around the globe.

Source: SailGP

Tags: SailGP , SailGP San Francisco

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2024 sailing events in san francisco, california.

Sailing Save-the-Dates for San Francisco Bay 2024

Known as a sailing mecca the world over, San Francisco is home to hundreds of sailing events every year. From community boat parades and regattas to the latest innovations in the yacht racing world, you can see it on the Bay. Check out this list and mark your calendars to experience these sensational events that bring the local sailing community together on land or onto the Bay. Some of these event dates are "TBD" (to be determined), but we will continually update this page as event dates are announced.

To experience or participate in some of these events aboard our sailing yachts, keep an eye out for Club Sails on event dates at our two locations in Sausalito and Berkeley.

• View the Modern Sailing Club Sails schedule  here . 

Three Bridge Fiasco  - Saturday, January 27, 2024

The Three Bridge Fiasco hosted by the  Single-Handed Sailing Society  takes place right outside of the  St. Francis Yacht Club . Racers compete single- or double-handed to round three buoys or temporary marks representing the three major bridges of the San Francisco Bay; the Golden Gate Bridge, East Bay Bridge, and Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. This race is an annual event regularly attracting more than 300 yachts and teams from all over the Bay Area. 

Enjoy this video clip of Modern Sailing School & Club's owner and CEO, Captain Leigh Hunt and sailing instructor and Captain Jimmie Marquez as they attempted the 2020 socked-in, strong-ebbed regatta. 

Destination Chartering and Sail Tahiti 2024 Information Session - Thursday, February 8, 2024

Join Modern Sailing Global Destinations in our Sausalito conference room for antipasto, fine wine, craft beer, and refreshments while your trip leader, Captain Robert Bivin, presents detailed information on the exciting Sail Tahiti 2024 - The Society Islands of French Polynesia itinerary, boats, travel considerations, and more.

Thinking about an international charter vacation of your own? Consider yourself invited and come pick our captains' brains! At the end of the presentation, there will be a Q&A session during which you'll have the opportunity to ask questions of our expert captains about chartering out of the Society Islands or just about any sailing destination worldwide.

We invite anyone who is considering a sailing vacation or destination charter to attend. In addition to learning about sailing Tahiti, you will have the rare opportunity to learn from the experts about chartering abroad and ask questions of captains who are familiar with many popular worldwide charter destinations!

There is no cost to attend, but please RSVP so that we can ensure there will be enough seating and refreshment for everyone.

DATE: Thursday, February 8, 2024, 5:00 - 7:00pm LOCATION : 2330 Marinship Way, Suite 100, Sausalito, CA 94965

Latitude 38 Crew List Parties - Spring and Fall

Check for updates on  Latitude 38's virtual crew list page . 

These parties, hosted by our favorite maritime news outlet,  Latitude 38 , occur twice annually . Hosted by the  Golden Gate Yacht Club  from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, the event is a meet and greet for Bay Area Sailors (crew and boat owners), featuring stunning views of the Bay, and a live life raft launch from Sal's Inflatable Services. $10 cash at the door or $5 for ages 25 and under with ID.  Learn more . 

Advanced First Aid/CPR for Mariners Course , April 6 - 7 and October 5 - 6 (Sausalito)

Maritime Medical Guides is coming to Sausalito June 10-11 and Oct 14-15th, at the Spaulding Center, to offer Advanced First Aid/CPR for Mariners. Cost is $375. The class is US Sailing Accredited, meets World Sailing Offshore Special Reg. (OSR 6.5) and is also valid for USCG Merchant Mariner credentials.

International Ocean Film Festival  - April 12 - 14 (Cowell Theatre, Fort Mason Center, SF)

Learn about the ocean, its inhabitants, the people who play in it, and people who work on it at the International Ocean Film Festival. Each year the IOFF aims to save the oceans one spectacular film at a time by inspiring viewers to become the voice of Earth's largest organ. 

Svendsen's Spring Fling Show - April 12 - 13

In Alameda at Svendsen Marine's third annual Spring Flow Show, you'll meet top sailing and boating brand representatives and explore Svendsen's 20,000 square-foot store for the best deals of the year on your boating and sailing gear! There are also raffle giveaways happening all day long. Download free tickets to claim your show swag bag. Visit springflingboatshow.com for information and tickets.

Opening Day on the Bay - Sunday, April 28

Celebrate the official beginning to the San Francisco Bay sailing season with fellow sailing enthusiasts! 2024 marks the 107th annual celebration kicking off the start of the boating season in the Bay Area. From the blessing of the fleet in Racoon Straits to the parade of decorated boats, Opening Day on the Bay is one of the premier sailing events of the year. Dating back to 1917 and organized by the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association , the parade sails from the shadows of the Golden Gate Bridge to just past Pier 39. Any vessels can take part as long as they register beforehand. The procession regularly features tug boats, clean-up boats and tour boats, with visitors and spectators onboard. Judges are on hand to dish out prizes for the décor and imagination of the colorful vessels.

Remain subscribed to the Modern Sailing weekly newsletter email for Opening Day on the Bay Parade Club Sail announcements so that you can join in and participate in this spectacular event. If you're not already subscribed, subscribe to our weekly newsletter here .

Pacific Sail & Power Boat Show  - May 16 - 19

The Pacific Sail & Power Boat Show is one of the West Coast’s premier boat shows, featuring new sail and cruising power boats, gear, hardware, seminars, and interactive workshops. It will be held in Redwood City at Westpoint Harbor.

Jazz and Blues by the Bay  - Friday Nights this Summer

Enjoy late summer nights and the smooth tunes of jazz on land or from the water. Hosted by Sausalito Parks and Recreation, Jazz and Blues by the Bay is a community event focused on park enjoyment and music appreciation. During the summer, these weekly Friday night concerts occur in Gabrielson Park overlooking Richardson Bay and the Sausalito Yacht Club mooring balls. Modern members can book a boat to enjoy the tunes and sunset, or join one of our Jazz and Blues by the Bay Club Sails .

The Master Mariners Annual Regatta - Memorial Day Weekend

Hosted by the  Master Mariners Benevolent Association , a San Francisco yacht club that dates back to 1867, the Master Mariner's Regatta is an exquisite event showcasing wooden tall ships from all over the Bay Area. In contrast to the modernity of SailGP, regatta boaters and spectators will have the opportunity to experience the historic heritage of sailing innovation at its finest.

One Ocean Film Tour on  World Oceans Day - June 8

The One Ocean Film Tour is a world-class series of ocean-loving films focused on adventure, the aquatic environment and inspirational stories.  The tour was created in 2020 with the vision to increase awareness about ocean protection and conservation by sharing films made by people who have dedicated their lives to the ocean and all her glory. One Ocean Film Tour is a spectacular visual journey in itself. Join us! Immerse yourself in the mighty power of One Ocean!

Summer Sailstice  - June 22

Celebrate the year's longest day and the start of summer on the "Sailstice." Organized by Bay Area sailor John Arndt, this event is a global affair that brings sailors together to celebrate their favorite pastime - sailing. Participation in the Summer Sailstice event is free. All you have to do is slip the lines, hoist your sails, and head out to your favorite body of water on a sailboat. Modern Sailing members can participate in Summer Sailstice by chartering a boat or joining a Club Sail.  Share your Sailstice plans for a chance to win epic prizes from sponsors such as North Sails, Navionics, American Sailing Association, US Sailing, and more!

Master Mariner's Wooden Boat Show at Corinthian Yacht Club - June 23

The Annual Wooden Boat Show is one of the highlights of the San Francisco sailing season, and one of only a few West coast wooden boat shows.

Open to the public and generously hosted by the Corinthian Yacht Club in Tiburon, this unique event is an once a year opportunity to enjoy one of the most beautiful Yacht Clubs in the world, and dozens of the most elegant and delightful traditional sailing boats from the Bay and beyond. We'll let you know as soon as show dates are announced.

Independence Day Celebration - Tuesday, July 4

Celebrate America's independence on the water! Charter a sailboat or join a Club Sail to watch the multitude of fireworks shows around the Bay Area from the water. See our Member Resources article Best Places in SF Bay to See Fireworks by Boat . 

SailGP San Francisco   (F50 foiling catamaran races) - July 13 - 14

There are a few ways to witness the exciting action of F50 foiling catamarans zipping and splashing around the Central Bay: (1) watch the race from shore by buying  tickets from SailGP . Modern Sailing club members can (2) charter a boat or (3) join a Club Sail to watch from the water. This year we are having two SailGP Club Sail spectator boats heading out from Sausalito and Berkeley each day of this event! 

A West Indies Odyssey 2025 Information Sessions - Thursdays, September 5 and 12, 2024

Our next Global Destinations flotilla is set for April 2 to 12, 2025 amidst two idyllic islands of the Caribbean West Indies! With the experienced captains of Modern Sailing as your guides, your 10-day journey begins at St. Lucia, a scenic island rich in British history. Sailing north to French Martinique and back, each of the stops along the way offer vibrant waters, verdant landscapes, and vivid flavors. Sailors will have the opportunity to explore the colorful blend of European culture, quintessential Caribbean charm, and the picturesque natural beauty that define the region. This sailing voyage promises a fusion of history, culture, and adventure on the Caribbean Sea.

Join a Trip Information Session to Learn About This Flotilla!

Enjoy snacks and beverages as our Trip Leaders, Captains Robert Bivin and Jeff Cathers, present information and answer your questions about the flotilla itinerary, boats, and travel considerations.

Cabin and bareboat sales will open to the public immediately following the Sausalito Information Session.

Rolex Big Boat Series  and J/88 Nationals - September 12 - 15

The Rolex Big Boat Series is a four-day regatta founded by the St. Francis Yacht Club in 1964. The annual event attracts competitive racing teams and big racing boats from all over the state, nation, and world. Thousands of racers and hundreds of boats take to the Bay each day of the race, competing for first place and the Rolex watch that comes with it. MSC club members can bareboat charter or join a Club Sail to witness the excitement from the water.

Island Yacht Club Women's Sailing Seminar - September TBD

IYC's 3 days of sailing, learning and fun includes in-person and streaming seminars and keynote speeches, food, drink, and no-host cocktail hours, giveaways including t-shirts and totes, and an amazing raffle drawing! Stay tuned for more details as we approach September.

Fleet Week  - October 2 - 8

The grand finale to summer in San Francisco, Fleet Week, celebrates the United States Navy allowing civilians to tour warships while their sailors tour the city. The week begins with a parade of ships progressing to free concerts, educational events, and family fun. Fleet Week's grand finale is a two-day air show over the Bay featuring the Blue Angels of the United States Airforce, the F-35 Demo Team, a demo from United's largest airplane, and several internationally known performance flight teams. The best seat in the house for these shows is from a boat on the Bay - keep an eye out for our Club Sails that weekend. 

Fleet Week Boating Safety

Sausalito Lighted Boat Parade - December 7

Spark the spirit of the season with holiday lights, music and fireworks on the water! This special event is a holiday tradition in Sausalito and across the Bay Area. Every year, we enter two of our club boats in the parade and our hard-working fleet staff decorate them for our members and guests to participate in this magical experience. With the sounds of holiday music and cheering spectators, you and your guests will be dazzled by the spectacle of decorated boats and fireworks. An enchanting and memorable event to kick off the season, even the grinchiest of sailors will be unable to resist the holiday cheer.

Do you know of any other San Francisco Bay Area sailing events? Let us know and we'll add it to this list!

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I took ASA 101 with them recently. They have the best customer service I've ever seen! I mistyped my address when I signed up online so didn't receive the textbook. I called and the lady immediately sent me another copy! Everyone at the club is super friendly.

Here are some snaps of Our Saturday, August 20, 2022 Modern Sailing Expedition with Captain Robert Bivin, who was outstanding. Please convey photos and thanks to him. He is an outstanding individual, leader and sailing instructor. His knowledge and experience made us all feel safe and our Farallones Day Trip educational and just amazing. 

The meeting room was quite adequate and the location most convenient, but the course outline and instruction were outstanding. Modern Sailing is fortunate to have such a well organized instructor in Mr. Stan Lander who teaches very well from a rich professional background. Mr. Lander was generous with his time and patiently in helping students who needed more attention or time in understanding various aspects of the curriculum.

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Sausalito Location 2310 Marinship Way, Sausalito, CA 94965 (415) 331-8250 (800) 995-1668

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International sailing competition comes to SF Bay, bringing economic boost

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Thousands of people are converging on San Francisco this weekend to watch giant high-tech sailboats from around the world race on the bay at super high speeds. The United States Sail Grand Prix is returning to the Bay Area for its third year at a time when local tourism officials say it's needed most.

If you have a need for speed, check out the adrenaline pumping sailboat race on the bay, known as SailGP. It's where 50-foot catamarans or 'F50s' almost fly across the water, so close to shore.

"It amazing to watch these hydro foiling rocket ships, which hit 60 mph," said SailGP's Laura Muma.

This weekend, the SailGP season three grand final is matching nine sailing teams from around the world.

MORE: SailGP teams from 8 countries vying for $1 million prize in San Francisco Bay

"It's the Super Bowl of our league. Stakes are high and competition at the highest level," said Mac Agnese from Team USA.

"This is one of the most knowledgeable cities for sailing and racing. All teams love coming back, especially those who were here for America's Cup. In many ways, it's a homecoming," Muma said.

Thousands of sailing enthusiasts are coming to the Marina Green to watch.

"The commentary is excellent. The vibe is excellent. We're getting into sailing. It's an exciting time for the sport," said Erwin Naido from Toronto.

MORE: Caught on Video: Shark jumps on fishing boat in New Zealand

The event comes at a crucial time -- when SF is trying to revive tourism -- post-pandemic.

"San Francisco is still struggling to recover from pre-pandemic levels of tourism, is off 25% of the number of visitors who come here. Business travel is down. People are not working in their offices, so events like this really make a difference, because they bring people into town," said Joe D'Allesandro, SF Travel president and CEO. .

The economic boost is welcome, just like strong winds for the competing sailors.

The final race happens on Sunday. The winning team gets bragging rights and $1 Million dollars.

If you're on the ABC7 News app, click here to watch live

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Registration Opens for the 2022 Rolex Big Boat Series at St. Francis Yacht Club

The Notice of Race is posted and registration is open for the 2022 Rolex Big Boat Series , hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco, California.

Considered the most prestigious regatta on the West Coast, Rolex Big Boat Series attracts competitors from around the country and the world for four days of racing on San Francisco Bay. Winners of select fleets are awarded perpetual trophies and Rolex timepieces.

Scheduled for September 14-18, 2022, the following fleets are invited to compete in this year’s regatta:

• One-design boats of the J/105, J/88, J/70, Express 37 and Cal 40 classes;
• Monohull boats with a LOA ≥ 30’ and a current ORC International rating certificate;
• Classic boats built prior to 1955 with a LOA ≥ 48’ and a current ORRez rating certificate.

“We are really looking forward to opening our doors for Rolex Big Boat Series and welcoming sailors who have the grit to compete here. If you enjoy a good test on the water and a good time ashore, this regatta is not to be missed,” said Peter Gilmore, 2022 Commodore of St. Francis Yacht Club, who intends to race his Cal 40 Longboard and hopes to see other owners of this popular West Coast design on the starting line. 

Last year’s Rolex Big Boat Series was held amidst a range of local and state pandemic-related regulations that did little to dampen spirits, with over 80 boats competing and nearly 1,000 owners, crew, club members and guests in attendance. “St. Francis Yacht Club is prepared to cater a full complement of racing and socializing within the regulations required, which are easing statewide as California transitions to treating COVID-19 as an endemic issue,” noted Gilmore.

In 2021, post-racing socials and the trophy ceremony were hosted outdoors and will be again in 2022, while the legendary Thursday night Rolex Owners Dinner and Saturday night Crew Dinner will be inside the clubhouse overlooking unbeatable views of San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

A notable difference for 2022 is a discount for registrations received before May 15. Furthermore, any boat registering after July 31 will be charged a late entry fee of $250.

“We work with the City of San Francisco’s Recreation and Parks Department and the San Francisco Small Craft Harbor to secure docking space for boats that come to compete, and the city has significantly increased their fees for 2022,” explained Adam Corpuz-Lahne, Senior Sailing Director of St. Francis Yacht Club. “To host this event at the highest level we’ve increased our entry fees, but we are also offering an early-bird discount to offset this reality for owners. We’re rewarding those who signal early their intention to compete, as that makes it easier for us to plan a successful week of sailing, socials and entertainment. Owners who take advantage of this discount will see no increase in entry fees over their 2021 entry.”

St. Francis Yacht Club has also changed the rating rule it uses for handicapping boats. Monohulls that do not fall into any of the one-design classes will be racing under rating rules established by the Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) rather than the Offshore Rating Rule (ORR), which has been used for the past several editions of the regatta. Handicap divisions will be split according to ORC rules and ORC International rating certificates will be required to compete. The 2022 Rolex Big Boat Series will likely feature three ORC divisions and fleet splits will be posted on the Tuesday prior to the start of the regatta.

“We’ve changed rating rules many times since the inauguration of this regatta in 1964,” said Susan Ruhne, Chair of Rolex Big Boat Series. “After soliciting input from sailors and owners who’ve competed in the past, we decided it was time to embrace what has become the dominant rating rule internationally and on the East Coast. The St. Francis Yacht Club’s mission is to be a leader in yachting and we hope this move entices more boats and owners eager to go up against the best in West Coast sailing.”

The Classics division, for yachts built prior to 1955 and greater than 48 feet in length, will continue to race with ORRez rating certificates. “The ORRez rating has us so closely matched, last year the first three boats were one point apart,” noted Beau Vrolyk, 2022 Vice Commodore of St. Francis Yacht Club, who has been racing his Alden schooner Mayan since the Classics division was established in 2019.

He wouldn’t miss it for the world this year. “Racing Mayan in the Rolex Big Boat Series has been fantastic. The racing couldn’t have been any closer and the camaraderie is terrific! We are looking forward to hitting the starting line with our old friends and some new faces in 2022.”

ABOUT ST. FRANCIS YACHT CLUB

The St. Francis Yacht Club was founded in 1927 and has been host to many of the most prestigious national and international championships in sailing. With over 40 regattas on its calendar annually, StFYC is widely regarded as having one of the top racing and race management programs in the country. In addition to enjoying a worldwide reputation for on-water excellence, Platinum Clubs of the World named the St. Francis Yacht Club the #1 Yacht Club in the United States for multiple years.

For more information, please visit  St. Francis Yacht Club .

ABOUT ROLEX AND YACHTING

A Natural and Supportive Partner 

Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor of all time, Sir Ben Ainslie. Today, Rolex is Title Sponsor of 15 major international events – from leading offshore races such as the annual Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the biennial Rolex Fastnet Race, to grand prix competition at the Rolex TP52 World Championship and spectacular gatherings at the Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup and the Rolex Swan Cup. It also supports the exciting SailGP global championship in which national teams race identical supercharged F50 catamarans on some of the world’s most famous harbours. Rolex’s partnerships with the St. Francis Yacht Club, New York Yacht Club, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Royal Ocean Racing Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda and Yacht Club Italiano among others, are the foundation of its enduring relationship with this dynamic sport.

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San Francisco Bay

San Francisco Bay has been called the ultimate sailing coliseum by many of the worlds greatest voyagers and sailors. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and a striking city skyline, the Bay boasts some of the best sailing conditions in the world. The summertime breezes which visit the Central Basin almost daily from April to October are world-renowned for their consistency, and the winters are filled with crystal clear days and some spectacular sailing opportunities.

The city of San Francisco is one of the truly great cities of the world. With culinary delights at every turn, world class shopping, international entertainment, and unique neighborhoods gracing the rolling hills, there is something here for everyone. San Francisco is also the center of numerous outdoors activities, including hiking, cycling, skiing, kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, and – of course – sailing!

• The Bay of San Francisco hosts a variety of sailing conditions on a regular basis. From calm micro-climates, perfect for getting a hang of the sport, to the moderate breezes and chop of the South Bay, on up to the wildness of “the slot.” On a typical summer day, you can generally find what you want, when you want it!
• San Francisco is a hotbed of grand prix level yacht racing. From America’s cup yachts to one-design dinghies, the Bay is the proving ground for many skippers. Constantly challenging, always a bit enigmatic, and regularly humbling, there is nowhere in the world quite like it.
• For cruisers and day-sailors, the Bay boasts many wonderful destinations. The “Baja-ribbean” Belvedere and Angel Island; Richardson Bay with the village of Sausalito and backdrop of Mount Tamalpais; the infamous “Rock” of Alcatraz; the broad reaches of the San Pablo Bay; the Napa and Petaluma Rivers winding into wine country; the hot and humid channels of the Delta waterways. You name it, it is here.
• Outside the Golden Gate lie wonderful cruising grounds capable of challenging the most seasoned mariners. Both the coastal community of Santa Cruz and the sea-life saturated Monterey Bay are within easy striking distance. Closer to home, we have Half Moon Bay. Farther along are Morro Bay, the stunning Santa Barbara, and Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary. We offer cruising courses which keep us close to home, and courses which bring out our adventurous spirits, heading all the way down the West Coast to our wintertime base in Puerto Vallarta!

Whether you want to cruise casually in flat water to a lunchtime destination, or pursue some serious surfing on the afternoon ebb-chop, San Francisco provides it all.

J/World San Francisco

The J World San Francisco Sailing School operates out of Marina Village Yacht Harbor in Alameda, California.  The protected waters between Alameda and Oakland (often referred to simply as “the Estuary,” but technically known as the Oakland Inner Harbor) are ringed with numerous marinas, boatyards, and marine related businesses.  Beyond the current status as the Bay Area’s boating center, it is also an area truly steeped in maritime history.

Our prime location gives us access to a truly wide range of sailing conditions on a typical San Francisco sailing day.  The calm inner harbor opens up on the South Bay of San Francisco, which regularly sees 12-14 knots with small chop.  The wide-open waters provide a perfect venue for many of our learn-to-sail courses and intermediate sailing classes, and the scenic San Francisco city front provide a fabulous backdrop.

For introductory level sailors who have raised their ability levels, or for our more advanced sailing courses, we have immediate access to the central bay, the venue world-renowned for the consistent breezes.  Where better to take your sailing classes with the best sailing school in the country?

Travel Information & Accomodations

Waterfront Plaza Hotel

10 Washington Street, Jack London Square Oakland, CA 94607 800-729-3638 (510) 836-3800

There are various accommodation options within walking distance of J World.  Please contact us for the latest information.

Oakland International (OAK) is about 6 miles from our office, and San Francisco International (SFO) is about 24 miles.

Public Transportation

J World is accessible by the SF Bay Ferry Services and BART rail system (however both these options will involve a short taxi ride), as well as MUNI Bus Service.

There is plenty of free parking in the large lots in front of our office.

J/World Sailing

San Francisco Bay San Diego Puerto Vallarta

(800) 910-1101 (510) 271-4780 [email protected]

Email Address:

First Name:

jworld.sailing

J/World Performance Sailing School is the preeminent source for sailing skills development.

Local News | Photos: Some of the world’s fastest sailboats…

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Breaking News

Local news | tesla’s fremont car factory: blockbuster racism lawsuit to go before a jury next year, local news | photos: some of the world’s fastest sailboats will be on san francisco bay for sailgp races this weekend, f50 catamarans are capable of 60 mph speeds.

SailGP’s eighth and final event of Season Two takes place Saturday and Sunday, with activities centered around the St. Francis Yacht Club near Crissy Field.

Jimmy Spithill, the U.S. SailGP Team CEO and driver, is best known for masterminding the 2013 America’s Cup comeback in San Francisco.

“Yes, we have qualified for the final, but time has shown that anything can happen. The team has rallied, yet I believe we are still the underdog,” Spithill said.

Though there are plenty of free viewing areas, limited tickets remain for premium on-land viewing near Marina Green or on-water experiences to see the action unfold on the bay between the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Racing begins at 2 p.m. each day. For more information, go to the SailGP website .

Click here if you have trouble viewing the photos on your mobile device.

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SF Giant Race: Sunday, August 18, 2024

Temporary, until 1 p.m. Sunday

South of Market (SoMa)

F Market & Wharves

N Judah Bus

15 Bayview Hunters Point Express

28 19th Avenue

30 Stockton

49 Van Ness/Mission

Event Summary

The San Francisco Giant Race will take place along the waterfront and finish on the field at Oracle Park. Streets will be closed and Muni will reroute around the race. Read below for more information.

Street Closures

From 11 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17, to 1 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 18,  the following streets will be closed to traffic:

• Third Street  between King & Channel streets
• King Street  between Third and Townsend streets

From 4 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday , these streets will be closed to all traffic:

• The Embarcadero between Townsend and Jefferson streets
• Jefferson Street between The Embarcadero and Jones
• Jones Street  between Jefferson and Beach
• Beach Street between Jones and The Embarcadero

Muni Reroutes

There will be Muni reroutes of buses and streetcars in the area of the race. See the table below for full details.

Note:  Be sure to receive real-time Muni service alerts via email or text by signing up through our  Email and Text Subscriptions  page.

311 Customer Service Center

The Embarcadero & Stockton St (Pier 39) (#14530)

Powell St & Beach St (#16046)

Powell St & North Point St (#16066)

Jefferson St & Powell St (#15174)

Jefferson St & Taylor St (#15175)

Jones St & Beach St (#15184)

King St & 2nd St (#15235)

The Embarcadero & Brannan St (#17447)

The Embarcadero & Folsom St (#14508)

North Point St & Polk St (#15468)

Mason St & Yacht Rd (Crissy Field East Beach) (#18023)

Mason St - Tunnel Tops (#18024)

Sports Basement Parking Lot (#18033)

Sports Basement Parking Lot (#18025)

Mason St - Tunnel Tops (#18027)

Mason St & Lyon St (Crissy Field East Beach) (#18028)

Van Ness Ave & North Point St (#16820)

Van Ness Ave & North Point St (#16819)

Powell St & Beach St (#17038)

The Embarcadero & Sansome St (#17281)

The Embarcadero/Ferry Bldg (#17283)

Beach St & Mason St (#13092)

Beach St & Stockton St (#13095)

The Embarcadero & Bay St (#14502)

The Embarcadero/Ferry Bldg (#14513)

The Embarcadero & Washington St (#14532)

The Embarcadero & Broadway (#14503)

The Embarcadero & Green St (#14517)

The Embarcadero & Greenwich St (#14515)

The Embarcadero & Bay St (#14501)

The Embarcadero & Greenwich St (#14516)

The Embarcadero & Sansome St (#14529)

The Embarcadero & Green St (#14518)

The Embarcadero & Broadway (#14504)

The Embarcadero & Washington St (#14534)

Offshore Racing

• Offshore Series

Bluewater Bash

• Offshore Equipment Requirements

Offshore (ocean) racing has a long and storied history in San Francisco Bay, and the YRA is proud to be part of the ongoing legacy.  We offer an 8 race series each year, that takes boats out the Golden Gate and into the waters along the California coast.

Questions or Issues?

For questions or issues about Offshore Racing, contact our Offshore Racing Coordinator  HERE

Safety at Sea Seminars

In order to participate in YRA offshore races, the skipper and at least 30% of the crew must have a current US Sailing Safety at Sea Certification.

The YRA often holds in-person Offshore Safety at Sea Courses, and both the 4 hour and 8 hour courses can be taken online through US Sailing at any time.

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