Some may claim Rhode Island is the center of the American sailing universe. The placid summer waters of Narragansett Bay have welcomed sailors from around the world for decades. Three regattas in the Ocean State are part of CYOA’s Classic Yacht Challenge Series (CYCS). The NYYC Tiedemann Regatta, the Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta, and the Newport Classic Yacht Regatta presented by IYRS keep the history and heritage of Rhode Island sailing alive while providing CYCS’s trademark camaraderie and beauty.

As part of CYOA’s ongoing Regatta Spotlight series, we caught up with organizers of the three Narragansett Bay regattas in CYCS to get a preview of what’s to come this summer and learn more about what makes each of these events special in their own right. Bill Lynn (Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta), gave us his thoughts:

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

Bill Lynn: Celebrating the care and feeding of classic yachts is a concept that lies at the heart of the Herreshoff Marine Museum’s mission, and the museum has been holding the Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta each August for over 40 years.  The Herreshoff legacy makes this event much more than a regatta - it is truly a “gathering of the faithful”, and participants come to Bristol to enjoy both great racing and the camaraderie of their fellow classic yacht enthusiasts.

Q: 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?

BL: While the regatta is open to any kind of classic yacht, our general rule is that, if you have a Herreshoff design, bring it! Over the years, that policy has attracted a number of smaller one-designs that would not be seen at most regattas such as the 15-footers that gathered in 2023 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Watch Hill 15.

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

BL: One unique aspect of the Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta is that it is held at the Herreshoff Marine Museum which is located on the original campus of the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company where over 2,000 boats of all sizes and types were launched between 1878 and 1945.  The shore-side activities take place on the original HMCo. waterfront, and the HMM docks are cleared to make room for the classic fleet which is on display from Friday afternoon through Sunday morning.

Q: 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?

BL: The Herreshoff Classic Yacht Regatta offers a combination of a unique format and a unique location.  The format is designed to deliver lots of fun racing combined with a great shore-side program.  Friday’s low-key feeder race from the Newport area to Bristol is followed by two races on Saturday which count for the Classic Yachts Challenge Series.  Sunday features a race around Hog Island followed by a return trip to Newport which finishes off Fort Adams for those who need to get back there.  The location is also interesting as the HCYR is the only event that takes place on the northern part of Narragansett Bay, an interesting place to sail offering some unique challenges and terrific new scenery for those visiting from outside the area.

Q: 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?

BL: The social activities associated with the HCYR take place on the Herreshoff waterfront and are open to the public.  We invite members of the Bristol community to join that party and enjoy the classic yacht “eye candy” on the docks and in the mooring field.  Friday’s feeder race and the last race on Saturday finish at the museum, and Sunday’s race around Hog Island goes past the museum, so there are opportunities each day for great shore-side spectating.

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