Yesterday saw crews arriving for registration day, with sailors getting their boats ready and the air buzzing with anticipation. Now, the racing begins in earnest, kicking off three days of thrilling action both on and off the water.
Today (Wednesday, 22 January 2025)
Today marks the first day of racing, and crews are starting early with a hearty breakfast provided by the Bay of Islands Yacht Club at 7:30 am. This morning ritual sets the stage for a full day ahead, as the first race gets underway at 10:30 am. Competitors will take to the water, battling it out until the last race wraps up at 3 pm.
Boat Talks
After an intense day of sailing, crews and spectators alike can enjoy a series of informative and engaging talks. Seapower will discuss the importance of regular servicing and common issues that can sideline a boat when maintenance is overlooked—insights that will resonate with every sailor. Following this, event sponsors North Sails will take the stage to share their expertise on sails and performance tips.
Charlotte ‘Rockstar’ Jones
The day concludes with a special treat: live entertainment from Charlotte ‘Rockstar’ Jones, the New Zealand singer-songwriter who recently made her triumphant return to the music scene. Charlotte’s performance promises to be a highlight of the evening, and you can learn more about her at charlottejones.co.nz.
(Tomorrow) Thursday, 23 January 2025
Thursday follows a similar rhythm, beginning with another 7:30 am breakfast at the yacht club. Racing resumes at 10:30 am, with crews vying for position on the leaderboard until 3 pm.
Beach Party!
Once the racing wraps up, attention shifts to the shore for the regatta’s famed and not-to-be-missed Beach Party. This lively gathering is the perfect opportunity for sailors to kick back and celebrate with their crews and fellow competitors in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
Friday, 24 January 2025
The final day of the regatta promises to go out with a bang. Following the usual 7:30 am breakfast, the last races of the week start at 10:30 am and continue until 3 pm. With every point counting, Friday’s races will be crucial for those aiming to secure a spot on the podium.
CocoLoco Trio Band
As the sun sets, the post-race wind-down gives way to the evening’s entertainment, beginning at 5 pm with music from the CocoLoco Trio Band. Their vibrant tunes will set the tone for the night as sailors gather to celebrate a week of intense competition and camaraderie.
Prizegiving
At 7 pm, the highly anticipated prizegiving ceremony will recognise the best performances of the week. Once the awards are handed out, the CocoLoco Trio Band will return to keep the energy high well into the night, rounding off the event in style.
Looking ahead
While the Bay of Islands Sailing Week wraps up on Friday evening, the action on the water isn’t over for long. Many sailors will be turning their attention to the upcoming Auckland Anniversary Weekend, featuring the PIC Harbour Classic from 28 February to 1 March 2025. Stay tuned for more on that event in a future article.
For now, it’s all about the Bay of Islands Sailing Week—three days of racing, entertainment, and the unbreakable bond shared by New Zealand’s sailing community.
