Swiftsure International Yacht Race

The Swiftsure International Yacht Race is North America’s premier Memorial Day-weekend sailing event, launching everything from high-speed multihulls to classic monohulls into the fast-moving currents of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Expect edge-of-your-seat starts in Victoria’s Inner Harbor and a festive finish back at Clover Point – plus the occasional skipper quip (‘Mind that bow wave!’) to keep things lively.

Race Courses & Schedule For Swiftsure International Yacht Race

• Long Courses (Lightship Classic & Cape Flattery):
  – Start Saturday, May 24 at 9:00 AM
• Juan de Fuca Inshore Races:
  – Start Saturday, May 24 shortly after the long-course field
• Registration & Skippers’ Briefing:
  – Opens May 22 at 2:00 PM, closes May 23 at 6:00 PM at Royal Victoria Yacht Club
• Course Time Limit:
  – Midnight, Sunday, May 25

Spectator Tips

• Best Vantage Points:
  – Inner Harbor Causeway for the pre-start hustle
  – Clover Point for panoramic views of the staggered starts
• Perks:
  – Clover Point Lions Club pancake breakfast with live race commentary
  – Grab a latte at Ship Point and claim your bench early – binoculars highly recommended

Registration & Entry

• Fees: Vary by division; early-bird discounts available

Pro tip: Pack sunscreen and a windbreaker – Victoria weather likes to keep you on your toes.

Official Website

For notices of race, sailing instructions, live trackers, and the full schedule, set your course for Swiftsure.