The Columbus Day Regatta is a South Florida institution: a genuine sailing race by day and a legendary raft-up by night. Hundreds of boats gather on Biscayne Bay to compete, anchor up and celebrate. It is equal parts regatta and floating festival, and there is nothing else quite like it.
When & where
Saturday, October 10, 2026 on Biscayne Bay, FL (the 71st edition). Hosted by Coconut Grove Sailing Club with Columbus Day Regatta, Inc. It is a pursuit race: one race for all classes, with the 11:30 a.m. warning signal near the Donovan’s mark at the end of Dinner Key Channel. Online entry through Regatta Network closes at noon on Wednesday, October 7; the awards party is at Shake-A-Leg Miami from 6 p.m. Confirm details with the organizer at columbusdayregatta.net.
Why it matters
For Biscayne Bay sailors, this is the social and competitive highlight of the fall. Racers get a real test of boat handling in open-bay conditions, while owners and guests turn the anchorage into one of the biggest rafting parties in the country. It is a rite of passage for the local boating community.
Know before you go
- Confirm the official race dates and skippers’ briefing with the organizer before committing.
- Anchor smart in the raft-up — set plenty of scope and watch for shifting wind and crowded conditions.
- Pack extra fenders, water and provisions; you may be rafted up for hours.
- Designate a sober operator and know the local channels before heading out.
Plan your visit
Check back for confirmed dates, race details and rafting guidance as the weekend approaches.
Sailing the bay this fall? Zip Yacht connects owners, crew, and charter guests across Florida. Explore the directory or list your boat.