OVERVIEW - RACING AT PORT WASHINGTON YACHT CLUB
Port Washington Yacht Club hosts an active and welcoming racing program on the waters of Lake Michigan. Each summer, sailors of all experience levels come together for a season of friendly competition, seamanship, and camaraderie both on and off the water.
Our racing calendar features a mix of weekly buoy racing, distance races, and special regattas, giving crews multiple ways to participate throughout the season. Whether you're racing every week or joining for a featured event, the program is designed to be accessible, organized, and fun.
WEEKLY BUOY RACES
The season begins with the Wednesday Night and Saturday Buoy Race Series, an 11-week program that forms the core of our racing schedule. These races are held just outside the Port Washington harbor and provide competitive yet welcoming racing for both experienced sailors and newcomers to the sport.
Throughout the season, several distance races are held in place of selected buoy races, offering longer courses along the Lake Michigan shoreline and adding variety to the schedule.
Learn More About Buoy Racing
SIGNATURE RACING EVENTS
In addition to weekly racing, the season includes two signature events that bring sailors together from across Lake Michigan.
CLIPPER CUP
A friendly cross-lake challenge jointly hosted by Port Washington Yacht Club and Muskegon Yacht Club, bringing sailors together from both sides of Lake Michigan.
Learn More About Clipper Cup
RENDEZVOUS REGATTA
Our annual open regatta welcoming sailors from across Lake Michigan for a full day of racing, followed by food, awards, and entertainment at the clubhouse.
Learn More About Rendezvous Regatta
NEW TO RACING? START HERE
Whether you're racing competitively, learning the ropes, or simply enjoying a day on the water with friends, PWYC racing is built around participation, sportsmanship, and the shared love of sailing.
You don't need to own a boat to participate. Crew opportunities are available throughout the season, and new racers are always welcome.
Find a Crew or Join the Racing Program