Nuevo Nayarit, Mexico – The 31st annual Banderas Bay Regatta (BBR), known as the most popular cruiser regatta on Mexico’s west coast, will be held from March 19th to 23rd, 2024. This 5-day event promises to be the highlight of the 2024 sailing season for coastal sailors from the US, Canada and Mexico.
It’s a series of fun but competitive races with coastal and offshore cruisers in mind. “Cruisers” are boats that double as houses – live aboard sailors that explore the bays, inlets and shorelines of the beautiful Pacific coast of Mexico, aka the “Mexican Riviera.”
This year’s theme is Mardi Gras, incorporating the festive spirit into the boat parade and overall event. The traditional opening day features a boat parade, where all registered vessels participate. Decorated in the Mardi Gras theme, boats will sail past a designated area with an announcer acknowledging each vessel and crew. Spectators on shore are encouraged to cheer on participants. A panel of judges will award a trophy to the boat that best embodies the theme.
The Vallarta Yacht Club will be the headquarters and center of activities throughout the 5-day event. Daily races will challenge the skill of salty sailors and crew. The steady afternoon breezes make Banderas Bay the best sailing venue on the Mexican Pacific coast.
Daily music, celebrations and dinners means this is a “not to be missed” event for skippers and crew of any make and model of sailboat. It’s not too late to sign up… skippers have until March 18 at 6:00 pm to register online at BanderasBayRegatta.com.
Although some events are just for the participating sailors, visitors are welcome to join the nightly festivities at the Vallarta Yacht Club (VYC). Live music and great food, all in a tropical setting, will be a lively addition to activities in the North Bay. For more information and a schedule of events, please see BanderasBayRegatta.com.
The Vallarta Yacht Club is located at Paseo de Los Cocoteros #55, Local 1201, in Nuevo Nayarit.