Late July and Early August feature three back-to-back one day CYCS regattas in one of the most scenic parts of Maine. The Maine distance regattas are the Castine Classic Yacht Race, the Camden to Brooklin Race, and the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta. These regattas are made up of one race and feature some of the best classic yacht sailing in the summer season. We talked with the organizers of these regattas for our Regatta Spotlight series to get a sense of what to expect this summer.

First up, Steve White of the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta:

What is the history and tradition behind this regatta, and how does it influence the experience for participants?

Steve White: The Eggemoggin Reach Regatta began humbly in 1985 with thirteen wooden boats and a dream. I organized the first regatta with Frank Hull of Brooklin Boatyard. We envisioned the race as an opportunity for wooden boat owners to get together and enjoy each other's company as well as to compete. The race quickly grew to 125 boats and is now co-hosted by Brooklin Boatyard and Rockport Marine.. The Regatta's 15-mile course has remained the same over the years and only once was the race cancelled due to fog. (The party still happened though!) The Camden Feeder Regatta and the Castine Classic Yacht Race soon joined the ERR to create a truly spectacular three-day event.

What sets the fleet of classic yachts at your regatta apart from other similar events? Are there specific types of yachts or notable vessels that regularly participate?

SW: The ERR is usually one of the largest wooden boat regattas in terms of participants. Our record is 136 and on average we have 90-100 boats enter. We have the full range of boats from Vintage to Spirit of Tradition classes with good numbers in each division. This year we will celebrate our 40th event so we are also one of the oldest regattas.

What is special at your event to celebrate the classic yacht racing community during the event?

SW: Part of the appeal is that we have teamed with Castine and Camden to create a regatta that has 2 destination events. The regatta goes from one harbor to another different one. Then the ERR finishes the weekend at the home of WoodenBoat Magazine with a BBQ dinner and band. Friday night there is often a special event for the public and participants to enjoy.

What aspects of your regatta make it a must-attend event for sailors and enthusiasts—whether it’s the location, race format, social atmosphere, or something else?

SW: We employ a points award system that helps ensure the same boats don’t win every year. Many of our racers are very serious about their performance, but more are the ti enjoy the magnificent Maine coastline and to watch the most beautiful boats in the world. Also, the ERR is the only CYCS event that does not allow financial sponsors.

How does your regatta engage the wider community, and are there unique activities or events that connect spectators and non-sailors with the world of classic yachts?

SW: This regatta is for everyone. It’s affordable to enter, fun to sail in, and stunning to watch. One of the best parts is how people line the shores around the race course to watch the boats race.

Check back here on the CYOA website often for more looks behind the curtain of upcoming CYCS regattas and subscribe to our Newsletter to be kept informed. And if you aren’t a CYOA member yet, sign up today so you don’t miss out on the opportunities membership provides!