With the entry list building and the Notice of Race long since published, the 2025 Rolex Big Boat Series is shaping up to be another standout edition of San Francisco’s premier keelboat regatta. Hosted by the prestigious St. Francis Yacht Club, the event kicks off 10 September.
What is the Rolex Big Boat Series?
Held annually since 1964, the Rolex Big Boat Series is one of the most prestigious sailing regattas on the West Coast of the United States. It brings together top amateur and professional sailors for four days of inshore and long-course racing on San Francisco Bay. Known for its reliably strong breeze and challenging currents, the venue offers a tactical and physical test for boats ranging from 30-footers to custom offshore racers and pre-1955 classics. Racing is split between one-design classes like the J/105 and Cape 31 and handicap fleets racing under the ORC system.
Past winners and record holders
The event’s history reads like a who’s who of West Coast sailing. In recent years, Ryan Simmons’ Blackhawk has dominated the highly competitive J/105 class, winning back-to-back titles. In ORC, boats like Lucky Duck, Vasara, and Pacific Yankee have secured class wins with consistent, low-point sailing. The classics division continues to draw historic yachts like Mayan, Hurrica V, and Brigadoon, celebrating heritage alongside performance. With seven races across four days, and the added twist of the Bay Tour finale on Sunday, past winners have needed both speed and endurance to claim a coveted Rolex timepiece.
What to expect
The 61st edition, scheduled for 10–14 September 2025, will also serve as the ORC Pacific Coast Championship. With the 2026 event hosting the ORC North American Championship, this year’s regatta is expected to draw an even deeper fleet. Over 50 boats have already registered, with more than 30 J/105s, a strong Cape 31 turnout, and returning classic boats adding depth and diversity.
The format includes daily short-course racing from Thursday through Saturday, followed by a long-format Bay Tour on Sunday. New allowances in the NOR—like permitting powered winches and opening team trophies to cross-club entries—aim to attract larger yachts and foster camaraderie.
Notable competitors returning include Reverie (J/109), Speedwell (J/88), and Vasara (RP56), alongside past champions like Loca Motion in the Express 37 fleet. Behind the scenes, the regatta continues to enjoy strong support from Rolex, Quantum Sails, Fort Point Beer, Mustang Survival, and Mount Gay Rum—ensuring just as much buzz ashore as on the water.
The countdown has begun
The countdown to the 2025 Rolex Big Boat Series is well underway. With an already stacked entry list, upgraded competition formats, and the backing of one of the most respected clubs in North America, this year’s event promises another thrilling showcase of West Coast sailing. Whether you’re on the rail, on the dock, or watching from afar, the action on San Francisco Bay this September won’t disappoint.
