Big breeze. Epic scenery. Yachts of all shapes and sizes. The glitz and glamor of Rolex.
In the sailing world, the Rolex Big Boat series holds a certain allure and prestige. Held each September in San Francisco Bay – when conditions
are at their windiest – the event features both one design keelboats (J/88, j/105, and Express 37) and handicap rated yachts across multiple rating systems.
This year, over 70 boats will take to the line September 12-16 for the 60th edition of the event, with organizers showcasing its rich history and celebrating the many legendary yachts, crews and skippers who have participated since 1964.
Since then, the event has grown to include new boats and technology alongside the classics. Ratings for each boat are supported by US Sailing’s offshore office, making sure boats of different makes and sizes can compete against each other fairly.
This year’s event will also serve as the ORC West Coast Championship, with the top three positions in each ORC Class awarded titles and trophies. Additionally, entries are invited to compete for the Storm Trysail Team Trophy, to be presented to the top-scoring three-boat team from the same yacht club and comprised of one ORC boat, one one-design boat and one boat from any other class.
The festivities begin on Wednesday evening, September 11, when boats and sailors arrive for the Competitors’ Briefing. Competition commences Thursday with two races per day for most fleets through Saturday. On Sunday, all fleets will race one long “Bay Tour” course. The Classics will race once per day for all four days.
Learn more about the Rolex Big Boat Series: https://rolexbigboatseries.com/