Join the Potter Yachters’ Monterey Cruiser Challenge XXVI

The Potter Yachters are preparing for their 26th annual Monterey Cruiser Challenge on August 1–3, and you’re invited. The challenge is a low-key competition for small cabin boats not designed primarily for racing. More than 20 boats are already signed up, including West Wight Potters, Catalinas, Com-Pacs, and Montys. Registration is FREE.

The Cruiser Challenge began as a grudge match between competing boat manufacturers and evolved into the West Coast’s most venerable trailer-sailing competition. It’s an informal, around-the-buoys race set along a spectacular strand of California coastline. The venue — a bight more than a bay — is exposed to the Pacific, and challenging. The 14-mile passage takes three to four hours, often includes whale encounters, and is suitable sailors accustomed to ocean conditions.

Race day is Saturday, Aug. 2. Those who wish to launch in Moss Landing and sail over to Monterey on Friday are welcome to do so. Typically, a handful of boats make this trip each year and return to Moss Landing on Sunday. Skippers contemplating this sail-in option should remember that it’s not an official part of the program, and consider the potential risks associated with open-ocean sailing. The Moss-Monterey passage is about 14 miles.

Skippers have the option to launch/retrieve in Monterey, or at Moss Landing, to join a pre-race cruise into Monterey on Friday, Aug. 1, (and back on Aug. 3).

Monterey charges visiting vessels just $1/boat ft. per night and provides clean restrooms with showers. Skippers launching in Moss Landing are welcome to arrive a day or two early and dock at the Elkhorn Yacht Club.

The rules aim to keep things friendly. Participants will include seasoned race veterans as well as novices.

More information and registration form here. Don’t delay! Dock space is limited.