The ABCs of the N2E

The Answers to Your Questions

Thinking about entering the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race, and wondering what you should do next? This page has all the information you need including important Mexico Customs information.
GETTING STARTED

If you don't already have a sail number for your boat, you will need to get one. Sail numbers are assigned by US Sailing and the application is done through the Southern California Yachting Association (SCYA). SAIL NUMBER APPLICATION HERE

You will also need a rating for your boat. Either a Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) rating certificate for monohull boats, or a rating from the Ocean Racing Catamaran Association (ORCA) for multihull boats. This applies to all racers, except for One-Design and Unlimited classes. If you would like to compete for the ORR or ORR-Ez trophies as a participant in the PHRF subclasses, you will also need an ORR or ORR-Ez rating certificate.

ENTER THE RACE

There are two courses for the race. The original Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race course to Ensenada (N2E) and the Newport to San Diego (N2SD) course.

  • N2E is the classic race to Ensenada
  • N2SD is a race to San Diego, around the North Coronado Island
  • Both start in Newport Beach
  • Online registration is provided via Regatta Network
  • Enter the Race and Read Notice of Races
ENTER HERE


EQUIPMENT

Make sure your boat and crew are equipped for the race by following the Notice of Race, the Sailing Instructions, and US Sailing Safety Equipment Requirements (USSER).

Helpful links:

SEMINARS

NOSA offers N2E Race seminars at several regional yacht clubs in Southern California to help educate new N2E racers and refresh the memories of race veterans. Additionally, US Sailing has Safety At Sea seminars at various locations around the country.

More Info

HOTEL & MARINA IN ENSENADA

Don’t wait to make your hotel and marina arrangements. Make sure you mention that you are racing in the N2E when making reservations.


The official check-in port for the N2E racers in Ensenada will be at Hutchison Ports ECV Marina. The Riviera Civic and Cultural Center in downtown Ensenada will be where all N2E social events and the awards ceremony will take place. In addition to being the official port of arrival, ECV Marina will be a point of support to facilitate all entry procedures for all port authorities and ensure an orderly arrival during the N2E 2026. Reserve your slip with ECV Marina and enjoy an exclusive special rate and offer, while completing all port authority procedures easily and conveniently, just steps away from the Race Headquarters.


There are many hotels in downtown Ensenada within a short walk of both the Riviera and ECV Marina. The hotel list below provides details for hotels that NOSA has negotiated discounted rates, both in town and outside of town. The Coral Hotel & Marina is also available for N2E racers with special NOSA rates as well.

MEXICO CUSTOMS & IMMIGRATION

In addition to being the official port of arrival, ECV Marina will be a point of support to facilitate all entry procedures for all port authorities and ensure an orderly arrival during the N2E.

Required documentation to visit Mexico by SEA:

  • Certificate of Documentation or current vessel registration
  • Current vessel insurance
  • Current passports for owner and crew
  • Current vessel Temporary Import Permit (TIP)
  • Current Tourist Card
  • Copy of vaccination card, if you have been vaccinated


US PASSPORT & CUSTOMS

You and your crew will need a Passport to re-enter the United States from Mexico.

The ROAM app is the US CBP preferred method of reporting your crew for entering the US. You will also need to obtain a customs decal for your boat if its LOA is 30 feet or more.

Helpful links:


Loading...
View on Instagram
 

Thank you, sponsors!

Gold Sponsor

Silver Sponsor

Bronze Sponsor

Race Sponsor


© All Copyrights 2025-26 NOSA. Webdesign by risingT.com