NEWPORT BEACH, CA – The 77th Annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race is set to take place on Friday, April 25, 2025. With more than 800 competitors and 128 yachts registered, this iconic event has always been considered to be one of the largest and most challenging sailing races on the West Coast.
Competitors are broken into 5 different classes according to boat’s performance and class of competition. Over 80 yachts are in the Performance Handicap Rating Formula (PHRF) category. A unique set of multi-hull boats (ORCA Class) will produce some of the fastest speeds and early finishers. However, last year’s first to finish boat in 10 hrs. 22mins. was John Raymont’s “Fast Exit” which returns this year to break their own record. Many competitors will also enjoy participating in the Cruising Classes which offer all the fun and excitement with the more comfortable racing.
"The City of Newport Beach is excited to welcome the over 800 competitors racing in over 130 yachts in the 77th Annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race," said Newport Beach Mayor Joe Stapleton. "This race continues to be one of the largest sailing events on the West Coast and it features many of the extremely competitive yachts tuning up to race to Hawaii in Transpac later in July."
One notable returning competitor this year is the 63-year-old “Ragtime”. The legendary wooden racing yacht known for her then radical design was built by John Spencer in New Zealand. She broke from all design convention with her ultralight monohull design. She last won the Newport to Ensenada race in 1977. She has been restored over the past several years, and is making its comeback after the successful rehab. The boat’s owner, Tina Roberts, is gearing up for the challenging Transpac race later this summer, and its participation in the Newport to Ensenada Race serves as a crucial tune-up for the crew and vessel alike.
Spectators will have a prime opportunity to watch the thrilling action from the Balboa Pier, where they can enjoy the spectacle of these high-performance yachts as they start their race down the coast. The race will begin in Newport Beach and end 135 miles later in Ensenada, Mexico, at the beautiful Hotel Coral. Some boats will be taking the shorter 90 mile race course to San Diego. The racers are expected to make their way south over the course of the weekend, with some possibly finishing as early as Friday night and others cruising in early Sunday.
For those unable to make it to the pier, there is an exciting way to follow the race in real-time. Participants can track the yachts via YB Tracking, an advanced online tracking system that allows fans to view each boat’s location on the course, providing a truly immersive experience for those who want to follow the action from start to finish.
The Newport to Ensenada Yacht Race is not just about competition; it’s about celebrating the spirit of sailing, the thrill of the chase, and the camaraderie of sailors from around the world. This year four boats from Ensenada have entered the race and will also compete for fastest Mexican entry.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time spectator, the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race promises to be an unforgettable experience, offering a front-row seat to some of the best racing on the water.
