The Route: From City to Cape
The Coastal Classic kicks off from Auckland’s Davenport Wharf and spans a 119 nautical mile journey to the Russell Wharf in the Bay of Islands. This distance may sound daunting, but for many sailors, the challenge is part of the allure. The race is essentially a sprint, pushing crews and their boats to the limit as they navigate varying conditions. While the race can take anywhere between eight to over twenty-four hours depending on wind conditions, the experience of sailing past landmarks like Cape Brett and the Bay of Islands makes it all worthwhile.
The Start: A Spectacle on Waitematā Harbour
The race begins with a spectacular start on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. Hundreds of boats, from high-tech multihulls to classic cruising yachts, gather for the midday start, providing a visual feast for onlookers. The harbour buzzes with excitement as the boats jockey for position, with the iconic skyline of Auckland providing a picturesque backdrop. The rush of sails and the roar of engines as support crews follow the fleet is a sight to behold, not just for the sailors but also for those watching from the shore.
A Diverse Fleet: Cutting-Edge Craft vs. Classic Cruisers
One of the Coastal Classic’s unique appeals is its diverse fleet. Over the years, the race has seen cutting-edge racing yachts go head-to-head with classic monohulls. In recent editions, multihulls like the ORMA 60 trimarans have pushed the limits, reaching speeds that make for a thrilling spectacle. The fleet isn’t just limited to racing machines; many cruisers and family-owned yachts also participate, ensuring that the Coastal Classic remains accessible to a wide range of sailors. The sheer variety of boats adds a special charm to the event.
The race itself operates under a handicap system, ensuring that boats of all sizes and speeds have a fair chance at winning. However, the true challenge of the Coastal Classic is less about winning and more about completing the course. Weather conditions can vary dramatically, from calm seas to heavy swells, making every race unpredictable and exciting.
A Test of Skill and Endurance
For many sailors, the Coastal Classic is a test of both skill and endurance. Crews must work together, balancing speed with safety as they push their boats towards Russell. The race is particularly famous for its fickle wind conditions. It’s not uncommon for yachts to experience light winds at the start, only to encounter a strong southerly breeze as they head further north. This variability demands quick thinking and sharp seamanship, with crews constantly adjusting their tactics.
The Finish Line: Welcoming Russell
After hours of hard racing, the finish line at Russell in the Bay of Islands is a welcome sight. The small town comes alive during race weekend, with restaurants and bars filled with sailors swapping stories from their race. For the winners, there’s the joy of knowing they’ve completed one of New Zealand’s premier yachting events, while others simply revel in the achievement of having sailed the course.
Over the years, the Coastal Classic has built a rich history, with legendary boats and sailors leaving their mark on the race. The current race record, set by Team Vodafone Sailing’s Orma 60 in 2016, stands at just over five hours—a testament to the high-speed excitement that the race can offer under the right conditions.
Looking Ahead to 2024
As the 2024 PIC Coastal Classic approaches, all eyes are on the weather forecasts and the final entries. This year’s race promises a strong fleet, including top racing multihulls and a number of dedicated cruisers. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply a fan of New Zealand’s rich maritime tradition, the PIC Coastal Classic is a true celebration of the country’s sailing culture.
