Boston Yacht Club Memorial Day Weekend Regatta

The Boston Yacht Club Memorial Day Weekend Regatta marks the start of the New England sailing season in Marblehead, Massachusetts. You will watch a classic PHRF race as fleets spread across the harbor, filling the horizon with white sails. The hub is the Boston Yacht Club at 1 Front Street, where spectators and teams track early-season standings and settle into a full day on the water.

You can expect multiple racing classes, with boats such as the C&C 35 MKIII, J33, and Beneteau First 40.7 working for clean starts and smart lanes. From shore, you get clear views of mark roundings and tight tactical calls, especially near the start areas. We recommend pairing the racing with a walk through Marblehead’s narrow streets for seafood stops and headland views.

Racing is typically split into divisions, including Double Handed and several PHRF handicap groups, so the pace stays steady throughout the day. After racing, you will see crews regroup around the club moorings for casual conversation and dockside wrap-ups. Regional competitors often include teams from Corinthian Yacht Club and Eastern Yacht Club, which raises the level of competition.

Plan to arrive by 8:30 AM to claim a strong viewing spot at Chandler Hovey Park or Castle Rock before the 9:00 AM start. Parking is limited in town, so use public transit or aim for municipal lots early, and bring layers plus wind-resistant gear since the harbor runs cooler than inland. Shore spectating is free, registration is usually about $75 per boat, and delays for light wind are common, so keep a flexible schedule and have a waterfront restaurant in mind if rain moves in. Dogs are welcome on leashes along coastal paths, and for overnight comfort, choose an inn or rental close to the village and harbor.