Registration opens for the 2026 Rolex Big Boat Series at St. Francis Yacht Club

Rolex Big Boat Series © Rolex / Daniel Forster

The Notice of Race is posted and registration is open for the 62nd edition of Rolex Big Boat Series, hosted by St. Francis Yacht Club in San Francisco, California.

In addition to four days of highly competitive racing in select classes, this year's event also serves as the 2026 ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) North American Championship.

Scheduled for September 16-20, 2026, this iconic regatta, held on the challenging waters of San Francisco Bay in the shadow of Golden Gate Bridge, invites the following to compete:

• One design boats of the J/88, J/105 and Express 37 classes. Other classes with a minimum number of entries may be considered with application to the Organizing Authority.
• ORC monohulls with a LOA = 30 feet. ORC boats are required to have a current valid ORC International certificate issued by any national rating office. US boats can apply HERE.
• Classic boats built using traditional wooden plank-on-frame construction with a LOA = 40 feet and a current ORRez rating certificate. For the avoidance of doubt, cold-molded construction boats shall not qualify.

During the Series, ten races are scheduled for all one design classes, four races for the Classics and six races for the ORC class, which includes a longer-distance Coastal Race on San Francisco Bay, nearby waters and Gulf of the Farallons, weather depending.

"This year, we're taking it to the next level by welcoming the ORC North American Championship—a true highlight for sailing on the West Coast that should draw a strong and talented field of competitors," said Felix Weidling, Race Director of St. Francis Yacht Club. "We've published the Notice of Race and opened registration as early as possible to give crews throughout North America plenty of time to prepare for this premier event. We understand that travel and yacht accommodations can be a challenge, which is why we're committed to supporting competitors every step of the way. Don't hesitate to reach out to our Race Office with questions—we're here to help make this an unforgettable experience for everyone."

Also new this year are the ten races scheduled for the one design classes, up from the seven raced in previous years. Race organizers upped the ante based on feedback from competitors that they would like to have more tests on the water.

"Rolex Big Boat Series is the most important regatta of the year for us. The new format is going to require serious physical and mental preparation to come out on top," said Ryan Simmons, skipper of J/105 Blackhawk, who's fought mightily to stay on the podium in the highly competitive class, finishing second last year and first the year before.

In addition to perpetual trophies and Rolex Submariners in the awards circle, the top three positions in each ORC division will be awarded titles and trophies in recognition for the 2026 ORC North American Championship.

In addition to competing for perpetual trophies and Rolex Submariners, skippers are also invited to form three-boat teams and enter to win the Storm Trysail Team Trophy (2025 winners shown below). Three-boat teams must consist of one ORC boat, one J/105 and one boat from any class, and they do not need to hail from the same yacht club.

Rolex Big Boat Series podium - photo © St. Francis Yacht Club

"The 62nd Rolex Big Boat Series is shaping up to be a dynamic event and we hope to see some new faces on the racecourse and at the parties," said Nadine Franczyk, 2026 Regatta Chair. "This is the premier event of the year for St. Francis Yacht Club so expect a full complement of socials to enjoy after the racing each day, plus a fabulous venue for friends and family to spectate."

The festivities begin on Wednesday evening, September 16, at the Competitors' Briefing and Commodore's Reception, when trophies and prizes for each class are announced.

"Rolex Big Boat Series is an integral part of St. Francis Yacht Club's mission to be a leader in yachting and we spend all year planning an outstanding experience for all who travel here to compete," said 2026 Commodore Susan Ruhne, who also chaired this event for many years. "We look forward to welcoming you to San Francisco Bay this September."

Take advantage of the discounted price before the early entry fee ends on May 15, 2026.

Register Now