Washington’s Birthday Regatta
This event has passed.
Experience a cherished maritime tradition that has graced Biscayne Bay's waters since 1887. The 29th Annual Washington's Birthday Regatta, continuing the legacy of Commodore Ralph Middleton Munroe, returns to The Barnacle on Saturday, February 22. This historic race, which originated at Munroe's boathouse, honors the Coconut Grove pioneer, yacht designer and founder of the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club.
The Traditional Regatta embraces the Commodore's "shoal-draft" design philosophy, welcoming vessels with traditional rigging and drafts under 4 feet. Participating boats—from Mud Hens and Sea Pearls to Sharpies and Gaff-Rigs—will compete in three divisions: Egret, Plover and Sandpiper. The Race Committee will assign vessels based on length and sailing characteristics, with trophies awarded to the top three finishers in each division under the Barnacle Handicap System.
For modern vessels with deeper drafts, the Mail Run offers an alternative sailing experience on Biscayne Bay, complete with professional photos of boats under sail. Both events are organized by The Barnacle Society, Inc. and The Barnacle Historic State Park.
The day begins with registration at 9:00 a.m. and a Skippers Meeting at 9:30 a.m. Racing starts at noon and concludes by 3:00 p.m., followed by the traditional evening Chowder Party at 5:30 p.m. and Awards Ceremony at 6:00 p.m. An optional Fun Sail is scheduled for Sunday, February 23.
The $75 regatta registration fee includes a commemorative captain's t-shirt and Chowder Party admission for both captain and crew. Spectators can enjoy this historic event for the standard park admission fee of $2.