Master Mariners Memorial Day Regatta
The Master Mariners Regatta is our crowning event that takes place every year on Memorial Day weekend. The Regatta consists of a full-day of racing on the bay of classic wooden sailing vessels in over a dozen different classes.
The regatta start is in front of the St. Francis Yacht Club, and all boats finish near Clipper Cove behind Treasure Island after traversing the bay according to class courses. Many boats fly the house flag of a local sponsor who is also honored at a formal luncheon the week before at the St. Francis Yacht Club. A post-regatta raft-up, party, and dinner with music and dancing takes place at the Encinal Yacht Club in Alameda. Many boats spend the night and sail home the following day after a pot-luck breakfast.
2026 Notice of Race
Master Mariners Regatta
San Francisco Bay, Saturday, May 23, 2026
Organizing Authority: Master Mariners Benevolent Association and Sausalito Yacht Club
1. Rules: This regatta shall be governed by the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS), the Sailing Instructions, and this Notice of Race.
2. Classifications: Handicap ratings and start times will be determined by the race committee. This is a pursuit race—slower boats start first, faster boats later. Finish positions are based on order of arrival (first to finish wins).
3. Eligibility and Entry: Open to all MMBA member yachts. Entry requires payment and submission of a Regatta Application form, at: www.sfmastermariners.org
4. Race Fee: $110.00 per yacht.
5. Schedule:
• Friday, May 8, 2026: Registration Deadline – entries received no later than this date.
• Friday, May 15, 2026: Skippers and Sponsors Luncheon at the St. Francis Yacht Club at 12:00 p.m. – registration includes one Luncheon ticket; additional tickets are $70, availability limited, purchase online.
• Saturday, May 23, 2026: Regatta Race Day – first warning signal at 11:50 a.m. Regatta Awards Ceremony and Dinner at Encinal Yacht Club – dinner tickets are available for $45, purchase online. Optional berthing signup required.
6. Race Venue: San Francisco Bay, with courses starting on the San Francisco city front and finishing east of Treasure Island, using fixed buoys and inflatable marks.
7. Sailing Instructions: Available online at www.sfmastermariners.org by Friday, May 15, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Results will be posted online and announced post-race.
8. Handicap: The MMBA handicapping system applies.
9. Advertising: Yachts may be required to display advertising (flags) provided by the organizing authority. Only official sponsor advertising (flags) are permitted.
10. Prizes and Festivities: Awards will be presented for first through third place in each division. Post-race festivities at Encinal Yacht Club include an awards ceremony, dinner, drinks, and live music. Please submit the EYC Berthing Reservation form if attending. Dinner requires ticket purchases. No host bar.
Questions & Contact:
Regatta Chair: Gena Egelston, Commodore
gena.egelston@sfmastermariners.org
Assistant Regatta Chair: Neil Gibbs, Vice Commodore
neil.gibbs@sfmastermariners.org
Regatta Secretary: Hans Hansen, Rear Commodore
hans.hansen@sfmastermariners.org
Regatta Sponsorship
The San Francisco Bay Master Mariners, one of the oldest organizations dedicated to preserving and celebrating classic wooden sailing craft, invites you to join us as a Master Mariners Regatta Sponsor for 2026. Founded in 1867 and re-established as the Master Mariners Benevolent Association, we promote traditional yachting and the preservation of classic sailing craft, celebrating skilled craftsmanship and enduring stewardship.
Why Your Sponsorship Matters
Your support is essential to the success of our beloved annual Regatta. It enables us to host the event while advancing our mission to protect and celebrate timeless wooden sailboats. By becoming a sponsor, you invest in maritime heritage and help inspire the next generation of sailors.
Sponsor Recognition
As a sponsor, you can choose how you’d like to be recognized—whether as a business, individual, or family foundation. We will feature your name (and logo, if applicable) on our website, with an optional live link, as well as in our printed Regatta materials. If you prefer not to receive public recognition, simply let us know, and we will respect your wishes.
Sponsor Flags
One of our most cherished Regatta traditions is flying sponsor flags from participating yachts. Show off your support in a memorable way and let your colors shine on the Bay.
Join Us at the Skippers and Sponsors Luncheon
Friday, May 15th at 12:00 PM, St. Francis Yacht Club.
All sponsors are invited to the Master Mariners Regatta Skippers and Sponsors Luncheon at the prestigious St. Francis Yacht Club. During this gathering, you’ll present your flag (if you choose to have one) to the skipper of your sponsored yacht, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and enjoy a stunning view of the Bay.
The Regatta: Watch & Celebrate with Us
Saturday, May 23rd, starting at 12:00 PM
Starting in front of the St. Francis Yacht Club. Cheer on your sponsored yacht from prime viewing spots around the Bay as classic vessels vie for honors in this storied race. Afterward, we invite you to the Master Mariners Regatta Awards Ceremony and Celebration at 5:00 PM, hosted at the Encinal Yacht Club in Alameda, featuring dinner, live music, and the presentation of awards.
The Master Mariners Wooden Boat Show
Sunday, June 15th, Corinthian Yacht Club.
In the following month, we also invite you to attend the Master Mariners Wooden Boat Show—though this is not a sponsored event. Marvel at even more beautifully restored sailing craft and connect with our vibrant maritime community.
How to Get Involved
To become a Master Mariners Regatta Sponsor, simply fill out this sponsorship form and submit it with your contribution by May 6th, 2025. If you have any questions, our team is ready to help.
Note: The San Francisco Bay Master Mariners is a 501(c)(7) social organization, so Regatta sponsorship contributions are not tax-deductible. For tax-deductible options supporting maritime education and restoration, consider donating to our Master Mariners Benevolent Foundation (a 501(c)(3) entity).
Thank You
Your sponsorship isn’t just a gift—it’s a legacy. Together, let’s keep the spirit of classic wooden sailing alive for generations to come. We can’t wait to see you on the water!
Questions, please contact:
sponsorship@sfmastermariners.com