RACE 2025 RACE 2025 MARIONBERMUDARACERACE 2025
Registration is now open for the 5th Annual Safe Harbor Race Weekend! August 8 - 10, 2025 | Newport, Rhode Island SCAN TO REGISTER OR VISIT SHMARINAS.COM/SAFE-HARBOR-RACE-WEEKEND Registration is now open for the 5th Annual Safe Harbor Race Weekend! August 8 - 10, 2025 | Newport, Rhode Island SCAN TO REGISTER OR VISIT SHMARINAS.COM/SAFE-HARBOR-RACE-WEEKEND LIFE OFFICIAL THE IS LRSE FOR COMPANY RAFT SERVICE THE MARION–BERMUDA RACE LIFE RAFTS EPIRBS + PLBS LIFE JACKETS IMMERSION SUITS MAN OVERBOARD Life Raft + Survival Equipment has been selling and servicing major brands of life rafts and marine safety equipment since 1983. The LRSE team is made up of the foremost experts in marine safety and survival equipment. Our technicians are factory-trained and certi�ed in the latest national, international, industry and manufacturer regulations. They are prepared to work with you to equip your vessel with all of your safety needs as well as prepare your crew with hands-on training to ensure a safe voyage. • • • • SALES SERVICE TRAINING RENTAL OUTFITTING LIFE OFFICIAL THE IS LRSE FOR COMPANY RAFT SERVICE THE MARION–BERMUDA RACE LIFE RAFTS EPIRBS + PLBS LIFE JACKETS IMMERSION SUITS MAN OVERBOARD Life Raft + Survival Equipment has been selling and servicing major brands of life rafts and marine safety equipment since 1983. The LRSE team is made up of the foremost experts in marine safety and survival equipment. Our technicians are factory-trained and certi�ed in the latest national, international, industry and manufacturer regulations. They are prepared to work with you to equip your vessel with all of your safety needs as well as prepare your crew with hands-on training to ensure a safe voyage. • • • • SALES SERVICE TRAINING RENTAL OUTFITTING
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome Letter from the Editors 3 Land Events Schedule 5 In Tribute to a Marion Bermuda Race Legend - Jack W Braitmayer 7 2025 Marion Bermuda Organizing Committee 9 Welcome Letter from the Chairman 11 Marine Wildlife You Might See at Sea 12 Welcome Letter from Beverly Yacht Club 21 Welcome Letter from Blue Water Sailing Club 23 An Iconic Ocean Race -A Skipper’s Reflections 24 Welcome Letter from Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club 25 In Good Company 27 Flashback to 2019, Tabor Boy Races Against Spirit of Bermuda 32 Welcome Letter from the Governor of Massachusetts 37 Marion - It All Starts Here 38 For The Next Generation 46 Welcome Letter from the Premier of Bermuda 51 Bermuda – After You Finish 52 21 Free Things to Do in Bermuda 56 An Award-winning Rescue at Sea 58 2023 Marion Bermuda Trophy Winners 64 Trophies 68 Bavier Nomination 73 Advertiser Index 74
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2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 3 As this year's start draws near, we look to the beginnings of the Race in 1977, forty-eight years ago. At its inception, this was a truly innovative idea – an ocean race designed for the cruising yacht and skilled amateur sailors. Over the years, the Race has undergone a series of innovations: introduction of electronic navigation aids, additional race classes and, indeed, a reintroduction of a class devoted to celestial navigation. But at its core the Race remains true to its roots - a purely Corinthian race. The Marion Bermuda Race continues to be unique in many ways. Unlike some races where boats can head directly to the finish, the Marion Bermuda Race's initial leg of exiting Buzzards Bay poses additional tactical challenges as you manage the winds and currents of the Bay. Once out of the Bay, the trip to Bermuda through the Gulf Stream is a test of the seamanship of the race crews and how well they can maximize the performance of their boats. Upon arrival in Bermuda, racers and those joining them on the island can enjoy the hospitality of the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club in their beautiful clubhouse with its relaxed yet spirited atmosphere among fellow racers, friends and families. We admit to some bias, but we believe that this is the best ocean race in the world! While we write this letter, a tireless team of volunteers is working behind the scenes to produce the Race. We acknowledge and applaud their efforts for, without them, there would be no Marion Bermuda Race. Volunteers from the Beverly Yacht Club work seamlessly with volunteers at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club and Blue Water Sailing Club, planning events at both ends of the Race as well as parts of this Racebook. Commodores from each club have a special message to all the racers in their letters. We hope that you find this Racebook helpful in preparing for the Race, providing information about the start in Marion and when you arrive in Bermuda. Likewise for enjoying the articles about marine wildlife, a rescue at sea, other open ocean races, Tabor Boy vs. Spirit of Bermuda and a heartfelt tribute to Commodore Jack Braitmayer, a true friend of the Marion Bermuda Race from the beginning. Wendy Cullum and Mike Malone Co-editors 2025 Marion Bermuda racebook Welcome to the 2025 Marion Bermuda Race! Photo by Ray Cullum
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2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 5 SUNDAY, JUNE 15 On-site Registration by Appointment – Contact [email protected] 1100 – 1500 Porch Lunch MONDAY, JUNE 16 On-site Registration by Appointment – Contact [email protected] TUESDAY, JUNE 17 0900 – 1800 On-site Registration 1200 – 1800 Duty Desk WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18 0900 – 1800 On-site Registration 1000 – 1800 Duty Desk 1000 – 1800 Regatta Store 1800 Goslings Welcome Dinner Tickets Purchased on MBR Website THURSDAY, JUNE 19 0900 – 1400 On-site Registration 1000 – 1800 Duty Desk 1000 – 1800 Regatta Store 1130 – 1500 Porch Lunch 1600 – 1800 Captains’ Meeting & Weather Briefing at Tabor Academy 1800 Captain-Crew Cookout Tickets Purchased on MBR Website FRIDAY, JUNE 20 0800 – 1100 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Regatta Store 1130 – 1500 Porch Lunch 1200 Start: First Signal Land Event Schedule MONDAY, JUNE 23 0900 Follow Race Progress from the Lower Lounge 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1300 – 1800 Duty Desk Subject to Arrival of Boats 1800 – 2130 Bar Menu Subject to Arrival of Boats TUESDAY, JUNE 24 0800 – 2200 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 2100 Ship Store 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1430 – 1700 Grill Bar 1600 – 1700 Afternoon Tea Seating Limited, by Reservation Only at RHADC 1800 – 2130 Dinner WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 0800 – 2200 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 2100 Ship Store 1000 Compliance Committee 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1430 – 1700 Grill Bar 1730 – 1830 Goslings Rum Tasting 1800 – 2130 Dinner Live Entertainment THURSDAY, JUNE 26 0800 – 2200 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 2100 Ship Store 1000 Compliance Committee 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1430 – 1730 Grill Bar 1900 – 2100 Goslings Rum Tasting 1900 – 0100 BBQ Dinner on the Marina Live Entertainment Sunset Cannon & Lowering of Colours BERMUDA ROYAL HAMILTON AMATEUR DINGHY CLUB Dates and times are subject to change. Please check MBR website; MarionBermuda.com FRIDAY, JUNE 27 0800 – 2200 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 2100 Ship Store 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1430 – 1730 Grill Bar 1800 – 2130 Dinner 1830 – 1930 Goslings Happy Hour 1900 The Bermuda Gombey Live Entertainment Sunset Cannon & Lowering of Colours SATURDAY, JUNE 28 0800 – 2200 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 2100 Ship Store 1145 – 1430 Lunch 1800 – 2000 Prize Giving on the Marina 2000 Gala Dinner on the Boat Park Live Entertainment Tickets Purchased on MBR Website Sunset Cannon & Lowering of Colours SUNDAY, JUNE 29 0800 – 1300 Duty Desk 0800 – 1000 Buffet Breakfast 0900 – 1200 Bermuda Customs 1100 – 1430 Breakfast/Lunch MARION BEVERLY YACHT CLUB
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2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 7 People remember shaking hands with Jack Braitmayer. It’s not just that he had a firm grasp, it’s that he’d look into your eyes and there’d be a twinkle in his. He’d want to share some wisdom with you. He’d want to hear what wisdom you might share. This would be doubly true if you sail, for he was a life-long learner about sailing. It is little wonder that he was devoted to the Marion Bermuda Race. He was a trustee of the Marion Bermuda Race (MBR) from 1983 to 2005, and became its chairman in 1995. In 2005, Jack was named Chairman Emeritus. Jack’s passion for sailing began as he grew up in Marion, Massachusetts. He attended Tabor Academy, where he excelled enough to be the student Executive Officer of the Tabor Boy, the Academy’s sail training vessel. Thus began the development of Jack’s life pattern of leadership and giving back. This pattern continued in Jack’s business life after he attended Wesleyan University and served a stint in the Air Force as a meteorologist. He had a fulfilling career as owner and president of MONA Industries in Paterson, New Jersey. He was generous to the institutions that molded him and served as a trustee for both of his alma maters, as well as the New Bedford Whaling Museum. He was a past Commodore of the Beverly Yacht Club in Marion. He was a member of the New York Yacht Club, the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club in Bermuda, as well as the Cruising Club of America. Throughout his life, Jack always had sailing in mind. After he settled in Darien, Connecticut, his first cruising boat was a ketchrigged Cheoy Lee Bermuda 30, which he named Karina for his IN TRIBUTE TO A MARION BERMUDA RACE LEGEND Jack W. Braitmayer Written by R. Davis Webb John “JaCk” Watson bRaitmayeR 1930 – 2023 two then small daughters, Karen and Kristina. This boat spent most of its time in Long Island Sound. As Jack’s professional life became more interesting, so did his boats. While the Cheoy Lee was a knock-off of L. Francis Herreshoff’s H-28, Jack had a fascination with the profiles of the clipper-bowed boats from that designer’s drawing board. He noodled for years with sketches of the boat he wanted. In 1968 he had those sketches worked over by Alden Yacht Design and had the next Karina, a 42’ ketch built in Maine by Paul Luke. This boat was imagined to explore cruising up and down the New England coast. Not surprisingly, in a few years Karina spent more time in the waters of Buzzards Bay than in Long Island Sound, as Jack and Nancy established a second residence back in Marion. He wanted his daughters, as well as his new son Eric, to enjoy the sailing grounds he had grown up with. In 1979, the lure of offshore sailing called, and as a nephew, I was one of a crew of friends and family Jack assembled to enter the second running of the Race. It was a legendary race rich with memorable moments. We got beat up a bit: suffered a knockdown, loosened the centerline saloon dining table, had my watchmate break his ribs, and backed seawater into our fuel tank, meaning we were without an engine. We went for three days without a fix (we only had celestial navigation in those days). On the other hand, when the weather cleared, we had a beautiful sail into the finish at St. David’s light and then spent a day sailing around Bermuda to Hamilton. It was typical of Jack’s skill and experience that he calmly laid out his intentions for laying alongside of a rough concrete pier at the Hamilton Princess Hotel without an engine. “Get the fenders and lines rigged on the starboard side. We’ll sail by, then as I round up, drop and furl
8 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE the sails (main, Yankee, and mizzen), and step off with the lines.” Not one of the tourists on the pier who were waiting to board a ferry even noticed that we were doing something unusual! The offshore bug had bitten, though. Karina placed second in her class—Jack wanted to do it again. A drifter in the 1981 Marion Bermuda race contrasted strongly with the 1979 race, and Jack was back to sketching-the-nextboat. That Karina was a 48’ ketch that still had the sheer lines and clipper bow of an L. Francis Herreshoff classic, but was built with more offshore intentions than his previous boat. Eventually that boat was replaced by a Ted Hood-designed Little Harbor 46 sloop. All in all, Jack took a Karina in seven Marion Bermuda races ending in 1993. We took home many prizes on that race, but perhaps the one that pleased Jack the most was the Family Trophy. In the same way that Jack gave back to the institutions that were important to him, he gave back to sailing. Acting as an inspector for the Marion Bermuda race, his time with skippers was not so much about compliance with the safety regulations, as it was a coaching seminar. He wanted each to have the benefit of his experience so that they might gain in competence even before the race started. For example, he’d get a laugh describing all of the interesting things he found had been left in various boats by the builders. From there he’d pivot to telling the awkward circumstances in which those items had come to light. He’d then exhort his pupil not only to add a strainer to the intake of the bilge pump, but also to periodically, purposefully, pour water into all parts of the bilge to move as much detritus out of hiding as possible before going offshore. Those of us involved in the race remember my uncle with gratitude and feel his inspiration. in tRibute to a maRion beRmuda RaCe legend — JaCk W. bRaitmayeR Smooth Sailing Ahead: Subscribe for Expert Boating Advice » Be the first to know about the latest trends, technologies, and innovations shaping the boating industry. » Expert Advice & Valuable Boating Tips » Exclusive Offers and Discounts » Free & Easy to Join Love what you’re reading? Sign up now for our Under SAIL e-newsletter to receive more valuable tips, advice, and exclusive offers. It’s quick, simple, and completely free! Just scan the QR Code to get started. www.sailmagazine.com
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 9 ACCEPTANCE Graham Quinn Sam Vineyard BYC MANAGER Robert Shorter DUTY DESK Manon Baze GRAPHIC DESIGNER Andrea Arnold GREEN INITIATIVE Laurie Knight MARION LOGISTICS Nan Johnson MARION EVENTS Gini Levenson SOCIAL MEDIA Lisa Gabrielson McCurdy INSPECTIONS Ernie Messer LEGAL COUNSEL J. Walter Freiberg III OFFSHORE COMMUNICATIONS Cap Parker PHOTOGRAPHER Fran Grenon PRESENTATIONS Bob Kostyla PRESS BOATS Henry DiPietro Janet Garnier RACEBOOK CO-EDITORS Wendy Cullum Michael Malone REGISTRATION Caroline Bolick Alan Minard SKIPPERS’ MEETING Susan Mead, Mary Pierce STARTING LINE/ PATROL BOATS Mary Ellen DeFrias TRAINING VESSELS James Geil TROPHIES Karen Gierhart VOLUNTEER COORDINATOR Chris Dole WEBMASTER Richard Robbins Tracy McNeil WATERFRONT Sam Lyons OPERATIONS COMMITTEE — MARION BERMUDA OPERATIONS Roger Beach DOCK COMMITTEE Ron Hook DUTY DESK Barb Jones DOCK MASTER Andrew Lake PRIZE GIVING Flag Officers PROTEST COMMITTEE Elsbeth Weinberg Craig Davis RHADC ADMINISTRATION Barb Jones RHADC FUNCTIONS/ GENERAL MANAGER Cassius Ferriere SCORING Mary Pierce SHIP STORE Barb Jones OPERATIONS COMMITTEE — BERMUDA BEVERLY YACHT CLUB Mary Pierce, Commodore Kym Lee, Vice Commodore Sam Vineyard, Rear Commodore ROYAL HAMILTON AMATEUR DINGHY CLUB Roger Beach, Commodore Patrick Cooper, Vice Commodore Ron Hook, Rear Commodore William, McNiven, Rear Commodore BLUE WATER SAILING CLUB Jack Savage, Commodore John Slingerland, Vice Commodore Auguste Fortin, Rear Commodore ORGANIZING COMMITTEE CHAIR Ray Cullum TRUSTEES Willie Forbes Debra Gayle-Malone Roy Greenwald Anne Kolker Alan Minard Mary Pierce Buddy Rego Stephen Ricci Allan Williams EX OFFICIO Neil Redburn TRUSTEE EMERITUS Joseph Fantasia Tom Farquhar BOARD OF TRUSTEES EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Neil Redburn ADMINISTRATION/ MARION OPERATIONS Nan Johnson BWSC LIAISON Jack Savage RHADC/ BERMUDA OPERATIONS Roger Beach MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT Ray Cullum REGISTRATION Alan Minard RACE OPERATIONS & SCORING Mary Pierce NORTHEAST OCEAN RACE SYMPOSIUM Roy Greenwald TREASURER Debra Gayle-Malone EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FLAG OFFICERS OF SPONSORING CLUBS All photography by Fran Grenon of Spectrum Photo unless noted
10 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE TABOR BOY 2019 Marion Bermuda ∙ Assist with preparation for Coast Guard inspection ∙ Replace lazy jacks ∙ Supply traditional-look running rigging ∙ Supply traditional wooden blocks ∙ Custom dock lines and mooring pendants CRAZY HORSE 2018 Newport Bermuda ∙ Replace deck winches including installation of Harken Grand Prix 65.3 with carbon pedestal ∙ Remove, service, fit out and step mast ∙ Service Harken furler ∙ Replace running back stays ∙ Various running rigging lines PESCATORE 2017 Marion Bermuda ∙ Perform complete rig inspection ∙ Modify Hood furler with Schaefer foils ∙ Custom standing rigging ∙ Service hydraulic vang ∙ Refurbish turnbuckles ∙ Jib and main halyards ∙ Tune rig [email protected] 508-995-1114 39 Tarkiln Place New Bedford, MA 02745 Unrivaled Rigging Experience Whether you’re preparing for an offshore cruise, racing competitively or recreationally in a big boat or dinghy, or ensuring the proper care of a traditional wooden yacht – we have the skills and experience to get the job done right. Our team is always mindful of safety, time, and budget.
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 11 As I am writing this, memories of last year’s sailing season are quickly fading, boats and dock floats in Marion’s Sippican Harbor have been laid up for the winter. My boat has been winterized, all perishables removed, properly covered and has been securely put to bed. If you are like me, boating is never really over. I review my past season and I enter some ramblings into my ship's log so I can look back and reminisce about distant voyages and adventures, friends I have shared time with on the water and possibly a mishap or two. January comes quickly and, if you are lucky, you have already begun attacking your “To Do” list. I always wonder how I can have such a significant “To Do” list every winter…it never seems to get any shorter. As boaters, and particularly sailors, half the joy of sailing is spending time improving your vessel of choice or repairing what didn’t work quite right during the past season. It is never ending but you don’t care, in fact, you somewhat revel in what lies ahead. We sailors are strange people. Preparing a boat to race or to go offshore takes a much higher level of commitment. There are standards you must meet and the work to meet those standards can be daunting at times. and it takes time: Time on your boat, time with your crew and time just trying to understand all that must be considered to get to the start line. I repeat…it can be daunting, but you do it because you know it will be one of the most fantastic life experiences you will ever have, leaving you with memories that will never fade. If you are fortunate, and it all comes together just right, you might even come home with some silver. I have personally experienced both ends of the spectrum, I have DNF’d and I have won some silver. The amazing thing is you remember each experience with the same thought of how you will do better the next time. Though many volunteers on the Race Committee, and there are many, never experience the pure joy and exhilaration of sailing offshore, that doesn’t deter them from putting their heart and soul into making the Race the most outstanding endeavor possible. Without our volunteers, we would be unable to have this Race and offer such a unique experience to our race participants. I am sure you will have a chance to meet some volunteers in both Marion and Bermuda and I ask that you say “Thank You” for all they do to run the Marion Bermuda Race every two years. I want to thank all the skippers, crews and their families for being a part of this very special Race! I can’t say enough about the volunteers for their countless hours of effort in making the Marion Bermuda Race the success that it is. We are fortunate to have the support of some very wonderful sponsors without whom this event could not happen. To our volunteers, sponsors and racers, Thank You! To our race participants, I look forward to seeing you all in Bermuda! Fair winds and a safe passage. Ray Cullum Chairman, Board of Trustees Marion Bermuda Race
12 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Sickle-shaped dorsal fin Lightly colored underside Triangular flukes Throat grooves Dark colored topside Ridge from blowholes to snout Small, pointed dorsal fin Grayish-white chevron Very large! Ventral pleats Asymmetrical jaw coloration Relatively short flippers Thin, slender shape Does NOT raise flukes when diving Fin Whale Sei Whale Anyone who has raced offshore has likely been asked these three questions by their co-workers, friends, and family after finishing the race: Did you win? Did you get seasick? Did you anchor at night? But they might also ask if you saw any interesting wildlife out on the open sea. An informal poll of prior Bermuda Race participants revealed that the most commonly seen animals are flying fish, followed closely by dolphins, sea turtles, ocean sunfish, the occasional whale, and more rarely, a basking shark. We have prepared this guide to marine life in the north- and mid-Atlantic Ocean to help sailors in the race anticipate and identify animals they might encounter along the race course. Check out whalesense.org for more detailed information. The author is hoping this year’s racers see more than just flying fish, which is all she saw while sitting on the rail during her Bermuda race. YOU MIGHT SEE AT SEA MARINE WILDLIFE Written by Sue Belle Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC 12 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 13 Stubby fin with hump Large, stock body Ventral pleats Long pectoral flippers Tubercles (bumps) on head and lower jaw Flukes raised out of water before deep dive Knobby trailing edge on flukes Flukes pattern unique to individual Smooth trailing edge of flukes Does not lift tail when diving White bands on flippers called "mittens" Falcate dorsal fin Sleek body shape Paired blowholes Pointed snout Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC No dorsal fin Extremely round body Paired blowholes White patches on belly Raise flukes out of water before deep dive Paddle-shaped flippers Head covered in callosities (rough skin patches) Minke Whale North Atlantic Right Whale Humpback Whale Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 13
Falcate dorsal fin Yellowish patch on sides Yellow or tan band on tail stock Gray stripe along flanks White patch below dorsal fin Short, thick beak Thick tail stock Small, rounded head Single blowhole No beak Light colored underside Small body size Robust shape Low, triangular fin Fin Atlantic White-Sided Dolphin Harbor Porpoise Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC 151 Harvard Ave | Stamford, CT 06902 Contact: 1.800.941.2219 www.landfallnavigation.com/bermudarace MUSTANG PFDS NEWATLAS 190 MPX OFFSHORE FOUL WEATHER GEAR RAFTS AND SURVIVAL GEAR Since 1982, Landfall has been supplying top-quality equipment to boaters with a strong commitment to safety. We serve the marine community, including recreational boaters, professional mariners, law enforcement, and emergency personnel. Safety is our mission, and we look forward to helping you outfit for the Marion Bermuda Race or wherever your travels take you. Sail Fast and Stay Safe. ARE YOU READY? Racing To Bermuda Takes Corinthian Resolve & The Right Equipment Photo by Onne Vanderwal / vanderwal.com 14 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE
Predominately dark flippers, flukes and fin Prominent dorsal fin White underside Prominent beak Yellowish patch on sides Hourglass pattern on sides Single blowhole Beak with Mellon crease Relatively short beak Lighter underside Adults may have extensive scarring Darker coloration on top Prominent falcate dorsal fin Short-Beaked Common Dolphin Bottlenose Dolphin Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 15
Second dorsal fin Anal fin Pelvic fin Pectoral fin 5 large gill slits Very small teeth in mouth Caudal fin First dorsal fin Dorsal fin Mouth Ana fin Small pectoral fin Caudal fin Illustration by Lucy Molleson for WDC Basking Shark Ocean Sunfish 16 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Documentary photographer, Anne T. Converse, offers an expansive portfolio of exquisite photographs, taken over several decades, reflecting her love of horses, wooden boats, people and travel. She is also co-author of “Wood, Wind and Water: A Story of the Opera House Cup Race of Nantucket”. Her photographs and book are available for purchase on her website, www.annetconverse.com For more information, contact Anne at 508 728 6210 | [email protected] | www.annetconverse.com
Dark brown or black shells and green cartilage and fat 3-4 ft. 300-350 lbs. 2.1-2.9 ft. 100-150 lbs. Amber-colored patterned shell Triangular-shaped head with a slightly hooked beak 2-2.3 ft. 100 lbs. 4.5-5.5 ft. 2,200 lbs. 3 ft. 250 lbs. 2-2.7 ft. 100 lbs. 7 ridges along the rubbery skin on their top side; they are the only species that lacks a hard shell! Reddish-brown and slightly heart-shaped top shell Top shell is olive-green in color and heart-shaped Green Kemp’s Ridley Loggerhead Hawksbill Leatherback Olive Ridley NOAA Fisheries NOAA Fisheries NOAA Fisheries NOAA Fisheries NOAA Fisheries NOAA Fisheries 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 17
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he Officers, Council, members and staff of the Beverly Yacht Club are excited to welcome our new and old friends to our beautiful club and to the town of Marion for the start of the 24th Marion Bermuda Race! Since 1977, the Beverly Yacht Club has enjoyed the honor of co-hosting the Marion Bermuda Race with Blue Water Sailing Club and the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club. Our long association with each other and with this race has resulted in close personal friendships and a shared vision of ocean racing that has enriched our three clubs and keeps us connected via the ocean that connects us. The Beverly Yacht Club was created in 1872 by an enthusiastic group of sailors for the purpose of promoting yachting and good fellowship among its members. Throughout the 153 year history of the Club, we have maintained that purpose. We offer races 5 days a week in season as well as fall racing and frostbiting. We run an average of three major regattas a year. And we support an active cruising fleet itinerary that ranges from Long Island Sound to Maine including an annual women’s cruise. Many of our racers and cruisers are “regulars” in the Marion Bermuda Race. Our participation in the Marion Bermuda Race is further illustration of our founders’ purpose. We look forward to welcoming you as you complete your final preparations for the race with opportunities for good fellowship including our casual dining on the porch or at the bar, with the Wednesday evening Goslings Party and, Thursday night’s Crew Dinner and of course showers, moorings and launch service. If you need help finding things on your last minute to do list, please ask us and we will do our best to help. The Race is the culmination of a tremendous amount of work by the organizing committee, the management and staff of BYC and RHADC, and the legion of volunteers from among our memberships who plan and execute the activities associated with the race in Marion, in Bermuda and at the Northeast Ocean Race Symposium. They all deserve a huge thank you for their time and effort in putting together this event and managing the race at the very highest level. Whether your race begins with a beat down the Bay or a run, once you round the Sow and Pigs buoy and head out to sea, your adventure will begin. Bermuda is waiting for your arrival! Good luck to all of you. I wish you safe and smooth sailing, and lots of fun! MARY PIERCE Commodore Beverly Yacht Club Commodore's Letter 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 21
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Commodore's Letter 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 23 F or more than 65 years the New England-based Blue Water Sailing Club has been made up of sailing friends who share a love of ocean cruising and racing. Since 1977, when the Marion Bermuda Race was dreamed up by BWSC member David Kingery and Dickie Bird, we have proudly co-sponsored the race with the Beverly Yacht Club and Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club. Many of our members have raced or crewed over the ensuing 48 years, and like our club the Race is meant The Marion Bermuda Race has since become part of our identity. for amateur skippers challenging themselves with family and friends as crew to expand our boundaries, cementing longstanding friendships. Tales of races won and lost, 360-degree horizons, sunrises and sunsets, become part of our collective memory. We all strive to be better sailors and better captains. The race prompts skippers and potential crew to learn and prepare their boats by attending the Northeast Ocean Race Simposium. We learn from experience and each other. When we’re not turning to port out of Buzzards Bay and navigating across the Gulf Stream, you’ll find us enjoying organized club cruises in southern New England and coastal Maine. We also host at least one women’s cruise each summer. During the winter we offer educational seminars open to everyone. Non-members are welcome to inquire about joining one of our cruises or seminars through our website at www.bluewatersc.org. We are good friends who enjoy good sailing and delight in finding another Blue Water burgee flying when we enter an anchorage or RHADC in Hamilton. Keep an eye out for us wherever you sail! JACK SAVAGE Commodore Blue Water Sailing Club
Crossing the Starting Line changes everything. Endless preparation, forecasts, long good bye’s now all behind us. The tough beat out of the Bay in the usual smokey Sou’wester rewarded by finally getting off the wind beyond Sow & Pigs. The sun sets into that first night back at sea. Onward to the tempestuous Gulf Stream and beyond executing our strategy and adjusting when needed. Sail changes, patience, grit, two points up, one point down, pressure ahead, trim, trim, trim, harden up, ease, play the puffs…balance. At first light, easing by North East Breaker, past Kitchen Shoal, Mills Breaker, St David’s, and over the Finish Line! A lifetime packed into 100+ hours with the best shipmates ever. Beyond amazing. Lets do this again! 24 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE An Iconic Ocean Race A SKIPPER’S REFLECTIONS by James T. Bowler Jr.
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 25 Commodore's Letter Dear Sailors, Supporters, and Friends, On behalf of the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 Marion Bermuda Race. This historic event, renowned for its spirit of camaraderie and adventure, continues to be a highlight in the sailing calendar, and we are thrilled to host you once again in beautiful Bermuda. The Marion Bermuda Race is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of seamanship, Corinthian spirit, and the enduring bond between our sailing communities. As you embark on this challenging journey across the Atlantic, you join a legacy of sailors who have navigated these waters with skill and determination. We at RHADC are committed to ensuring that your time in Bermuda is as memorable and enjoyable as the race itself. Our club, with its rich history and tradition of hospitality, is ready to welcome you with open arms. Whether you are a seasoned racer or a first-time participant, we hope you will find a warm and supportive community here. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the organizers, volunteers, and sponsors who have worked tirelessly to make this event possible. Your dedication and passion are the driving forces behind the success of the Marion Bermuda Race. To all the sailors, I wish you fair winds and following seas. May your journey be safe, your experiences enriching, and your memories lasting. We look forward to celebrating your achievements and sharing in the joy of your arrival. Welcome to Bermuda! Warm regards, ROGER BEACH Commodore Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club
26 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE 561 THAMES STREET NEWPORT RHODE ISLAND (401) VIP-GEAR 561 THAMES STREET NEWPORT RHODE ISLAND (401) VIP-GEAR 2025 Official Race Gear Supplier Outdoor Apparel & Gear MENS | WOMENS | KIDS Outdoor Apparel & Gear The Foul Weather & Crew Gear Experts since 1985. 2025 © ultimatesailing.com/Sharon Green www.team1newport.com
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 27 Definition of Category 1 Race Races of long distance and well offshore, where boats must be completely self-sufficient for extended periods of time, capable of withstanding heavy storms and prepared to meet serious emergencies without the expectation of outside assistance. Around the world there is a relatively short list of Category 1 open ocean races. Among the names are the famous Rolex Sydney Hobart Race and the Transpac. But several of the most prestigious Category 1 races have their origins in the New England region of the US, including our own Marion Bermuda Race. We are in good company with some of the top open ocean races. Besides obviously having a different course, each of these races has a unique history and appeal. Whether it be to race along a 500+ year old trade route, cross an ocean, or race your own cruising boat in an exhilarating off-shore environment, these races provide sailors with an adventure and the opportunity to challenge themselves while connecting with nature, the elements and their crewmates. IN GOOD COMPANY Written by Sue Belle
Transatlantic Race (Newport, RI to Cowes, UK) Organizing Clubs: New York Yacht Club Regatta Association and the Royal Ocean Racing Club, with support from the Royal Yacht Squadron and Storm Trysail Club When started: 1866 (first iteration); NYYC has organized the 2025 edition and the previous 31 races Distance: 3000nm Now takes place: Every four years Unique appeal of the race: The Transatlantic Race 2025 is a direct descendant of the first great transatlantic ocean race, which started from New York Harbor on December 11, 1866 It hails itself as sailing’s greatest Corinthian challenge where finishing a transatlantic race remains one of sailing’s most coveted accomplishments Newport Bermuda Race Organizing Clubs: Cruising Club of America and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club When started: 1906 Distance: 636mn Now takes place: Mid-June; every other year in even years Unique appeal of the race: The Newport Bermuda Race is the oldest regularly scheduled ocean race 28 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Rigging Experts YouCan Trust 978-287-0060 [email protected] | www.nerigging.com in good ComPany Transatlantic Race Newport Bermuda Race Marion to Bermuda Race Cruising Compass is proud to support the 2025 Marion to Bermuda Race Get your weekly fix of cruising news, boat and gear reviews and tales from the cruising world. BWSailing.com/cc/subscribe-today
Now this race is seen as a “bucket list” race for sailors, with about 25 to 30 percent of captains sailing in their first Newport Bermuda Race in command Marion to Bermuda Race Organizing Clubs: Beverly Yacht Club, the Blue Water Sailing Club and the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club When started: 1977 Distance: 645nm Now takes place: Mid-June; every other year in odd years Unique appeal of the race: The Marion Bermuda Race is unique in that it was originally designed for and continues to embody purely Corinthian yacht racing The race provides an opportunity for racing and cruising boats with amateur crews and sail training vessels to participate in a serious ocean race and a rendezvous in Bermuda It encourages the development of blue water sailing skills on seaworthy boats that can be handled safely offshore with limited crew in an environmentally sustainable way The founder of the initial race intended to prove that this race could be enjoyable and safe for amateur sailors in boats under 80 feet, and the race would also help to develop better sailors and better boats 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 29 SPECTRUM PHOTO by Fran Grenon Start to finish coverage of the Marion-Bermuda Race since 2003 www.spectrumphotofg.com in good ComPany
30 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Mark Your Calendar Now! June 18, 2027
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32 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE It was June 14, 2019 – a day my former student crew members and I will not soon forget. Several classes of boats gathered near the starting line of the Marion to Bermuda Race. Spirit of Bermuda and Tabor Academy’s Tabor Boy, both sail training vessels, were the first to start. A classic Buzzards Bay sou’wester had been building throughout the morning. Race boats and spectator craft crowded the area as the two sail training vessels vied for position and maneuvered to avoid collisions. Finally, Spirit and Tabor Boy crossed the line at nearly the same moment and within seconds of the starting gun from the committee boat. The race was on! The wind had reached twenty-five knots, resulting in an exciting but hard sail to windward against a flood tide. It took nine or ten tacks for Tabor Boy to clear Cuttyhunk. By then, Spirit had pulled well ahead, and we did not see her again until docking four days later at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club in Bermuda. Once clear of the bay, we set course for the location where our tactician, Gregg Nourjian, hoped to enter the Gulf Stream. As the afternoon gave way to evening, the student navigators brought out the ship’s sextants to attempt their first twilight observations… What events led up to this contest? My original intention had been simply to follow the race fleet to Bermuda so that the student crew could experience some offshore sailing. Tabor Boy might also have been able to help if one of the race boats ran into trouble. Her sister ship, Albatross, did that in the 1960 Newport to Bermuda Race when she assisted a dismasted boat until a tow could be arranged. The Marion Bermuda Race Committee welcomed the thought of having Tabor Boy accompany the fleet but immediately encouraged me to enter her in the race against Spirit of Bermuda. That fall, the chairman of the Bermuda Sloop Foundation, David Goodwin, issued a “formal” challenge to Tabor Boy during a fun MBR dinner at the Dinghy Club. Tabor Academy had supported the plan, so I was honored to accept Spirit’s challenge on behalf of the school. All this occurred during the fall of 2018. So began several months of preparation that included training Tabor Boy’s student crew for offshore sailing and obtaining an Flashback to 2019 Tabor Boy races against Spirit of Bermuda Evening Twilight (Photo by Jack Gordon) Written by James Geil
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 33 ORR certificate for the schooner. I had also committed to participating as a “celestially navigated vessel.” Many of the students in my celestial navigation course were Tabor Boy crew members, and the prospect of the upcoming race provided added incentive and enthusiasm in the classroom. We cleaned and adjusted the ship’s sextants, practiced sun sights on the waterfront, and worked numerous sight reduction and plotting problems. I did not allow the students to use navigational calculators – the kids were to work all sights by hand using traditional tables and methods. As the end of the school year and the start of the race grew near, the excited crew gained confidence in their skills. The real test, though, would come when Tabor Boy settled on her course for Bermuda and the coast of New England disappeared in the distance astern. The attempts at navigating that first evening did not produce significant results because the moving deck of a vessel at sea is much different than a parking lot on solid land. Nonetheless, the students got valuable practice and were anxious to try again the next morning. Sailing offshore and racing against Spirit of Bermuda presented an exciting opportunity for the Tabor Boy crew. Our participation in the Marion to Bermuda Race was an experience that will stay with me for the rest of my life. —Chip Connard The short duration of civil twilight demands careful preparation beforehand. The navigators quickly realized that they needed to be ready to grab as many sights as possible before the sky became too bright or the horizon too dark. Attempts the following morning went only Start of the 2019 Marion Bermuda Race
34 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE marginally better because my crew went into the Nautical Almanac with ship’s time rather than GMT – and when they finally realized their error, twilight had already passed. But that is how students learn, and the kids did not make that mistake again. During our first full day at sea, they worked morning and afternoon sun lines and determined the ship’s latitude at local apparent noon (LAN). That evening produced the first good set of observations. After dark, the navigators crowded around the small deckhouse table with Almanacs and H.O. 229s to work the sights. Two Tabor Boy alumni and I pitched in to help – only because of the number of sights that the enthusiastic kids had made. The combination of stars and planets resulted in an excellent fix on the plotting sheet. The student navigators honed their skills during the following days and enjoyed increasing success and confidence. The final morning twilight sights resulted in the most numerous and accurate lines of position I had ever seen for a celestial fix. My confidence in the students’ FlashbaCk to 2019 — taboR boy RaCes against sPiRit oF beRmuda Spirit of Bermuda
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 35 RESULTS - 2019 DIVISION: Classic Yacht START: June 14, 2019 12:10:00 EDT Final C # D # Sail Number Yacht Name Skipper Rtng E C Rtng Adj. Finish (ADT) Date Time Elapsed Time Corrected Time e Corrected + Penalty 1 1 2 Tabor Boy James Geil 0 844 C 0 819 06-18 14:43:04 4d 01:33:04 3d 07:53:40 3d 07:53:40 C # is class rank, D # is division rank. EC is Electronic or Celestial navigation. navigation inspired me to make landfall and complete the race without relying on electronics (as allowed in the Rules). Tabor Boy crossed the finish line off St. David’s Head at 1443 that afternoon. Tabor Boy won (on corrected time) what is now called the Sail Training Division, but I suspect Spirit of Bermuda will be more than prepared for the next contest. The Marion Bermuda Race Committee is welcoming other sail training vessels to participate in upcoming races! FlashbaCk to 2019 — taboR boy RaCes against sPiRit oF beRmuda Taber Boy
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38 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE elcome to our beautiful seaside town and the start of the Marion Bermuda Race. For sailors, Marion is a magical place, where almost without fail, the “Sowwanin,” (as the Wampanoags call the Southwest wind), will pick up once the sea breeze establishes itself, giving us the wonderful wind and chop that Buzzards Bay and Marion have become known for. Many centuries before the Pilgrims set foot ashore in nearby Plymouth, this land was the village of the Sippican Indians, the Wampanoags, a tribe of the Algonquin Nation. Since their MARION It All Starts Here tenure, this land and subsequent town has been intertwined with the sea. Known for its saltworks, shipbuilding, and whaling captains, Marion has sent her sailors all over the world, first as traders and whalers. Today’s sailors venture out in much smaller ships for the pleasure and adventure of racing on Buzzards Bay and the blue water beyond. While generations of sailors and seafarers have loved Marion, so, too, have artists, writers, philanthropists, and politicians, including 2 Presidents: Grover Cleveland, and Franklin Delano Roosevelt. President Cleveland fished
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 39 YOUR HOST: BEVERLY YACHT CLUB 508 748-0540 Email: [email protected] BeverlyYachtClub.org One of the oldest and most distinguished yacht clubs in America, the Beverly Yacht Club was founded in 1872 by a group of sailors from Eastern Yacht Club. Located on the west side of the harbor, BYC is the hub of all race activities and official home of the Marion Bermuda Race Committee. All race participants are welcome to use the Club’s facilities and amenities. Prerace festivities will be held at BYC’s clubhouse and tent on the water. You will also find lunch, planned dinners and a friendly bar. See the Schedule of Land Events found in this Race Book for Duty Desk hours, registration times, and other pre-race activities. We hope the following information will help make your stay more comfortable and fun often out in the Bay near a ledge that now bears his name, “Cleveland Ledge,” and referred to Marion as “the most beautiful little town in the United States,” and the “little Naples of America.” During the 1880s, the writer Richard Watson Gilder summered in Marion, and brought with him his circle of famous friends; Marion, for a time, became home to his salon. With the advent of the railroad in the 1850s, the town enjoyed a burgeoning reputation as a seaside resort, and when Henry James stayed in one of the big seaside hotels (now long gone) on Water Street, he took inspiration for his book “The Bostonians.” American sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens visited Marion, as did Richard Harding Davis, Charles Dana Gibson, John Drew, John Barrymore, Ethel Barrymore, Maude Adams, Edith Austin, Louis Agassiz – to name but a few of the town’s more wellknown visitors. Marion had a generous patron who loved this town, too. Elizabeth Taber was born in Marion in 1805 and returned in her later years as a dynamic benefactor. Her philanthropy built The Music Hall, the Elizabeth Taber Library and the Marion Natural History Museum (which share a building), as well as Tabor Academy. Her legacy lives on as part of the daily fabric of the town. You can sit next to Elizabeth Taber’s lifesize statue at the tribute to her in Bicentennial Park at the corner of Spring Street and Main Street, across the street from the MAC and Marion Town House. All information may also be found on our website: MarionBermuda.com Email: [email protected] GETTING ASHORE Launch service will be provided by the Beverly Yacht Club and local boatyards if you rent a mooring through them. Allow ample time to get ashore as launches will be very busy. Once ashore, many places are within walking distance from BYC. Marion does not have a taxi service but if you need a ride, the duty desk at BYC will try to help you get where you need to go. • Launch Service: Hail on VHF CH68 for BYC, Barden’s Boat Yard or Burr Brothers • Enterprise Car Rental 508 759-2299 Buzzards Bay, MA • Uber and Lyft services are available but scarce
—Locus Weather— Providing the meteorological analysis required to make good decisions Weather Support for Voyaging Yachts Since 1991 • Sail and Power • Commercial, Recreational • Coastal and Offshore, All Oceans • Deliveries, Cruises • Race Strategy Ken McKinley has provided support for the Marion Bermuda Race for more than 25 years. Whether racing or cruising, put his experience to work for you and your crew! Contact info: Office: 207-236-3935 Mobile: 207-596-4972 email: [email protected] www.locusweather.com 40 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Scan this code and sign up to receive Sailing World’s weekly e-newsletter. YOUR AUTHORITY ON SAILBOAT RACING NEWS • TRENDS • TECHNOLOGY EXPERT COMMENTARY • TIPS & HOW-TO 24341SLWMiBdRP14didd21/7/25445PMCTSpringBoatShow.com April 25 - 27, 2025 Sponsored by
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 41 MOORINGS & LAUNCH Sippican Harbor is exceptionally well sheltered and navigable. Make your mooring reservations well in advance through the Marion Bermuda Race website. During race week it is not possible to anchor in the inner harbor. Rafting is permitted with the consent of the Harbormaster, but only two boats may moor to any mooring, and at least one person must be aboard the raft at all times. • BYC: Hail on CH68 for mooring assignment • Barden’s and Burr Brothers: Hail on CH68 DOCKSIDE SERVICES The Island Wharf Town Dock has fresh water and access to load crew and supplies. Plan ahead as there is a 20 minute limit. At low tide, there is only about eight feet of water alongside the float attached to the Town Dock, but be aware of marked rocks that are submerged a few yards north of the float (to the right, as you approach from the water). Also both boatyards in the harbor offer fresh water, ice, diesel, gasoline, ships store (at Burr Brothers), haul-out, and the full range of services you might need. • Marion Harbormaster VHF CH9 or CH16 or 508 748-3535 Pump out services are available free of charge at your mooring and at dockside. Call or hail the Marion Harbormaster’s office for an appointment. You do not need to be aboard for service. • Barden’s Boat Yard - bardensboatyard.com VHF CH68 or 508 748-0250 Email: [email protected] Located near Island Wharf Town Dock • Burr Brothers Boats - burrbros.com VHF CH68 or 508 748-0541 Email: [email protected] Located near the head of Sippican Harbor • Fairhaven Shipyard fairhavenshipyard.com | 508 999-1600 • Hinckley Yacht Services hinckleyyachts.com | 401 683-7100 Portsmouth, RI. • New England Boatworks NEBoatworks.com | 401 683-4000 Portsmouth, RI • Saltworks Marine Services saltworksmarine.com | 508 317-2599 Marion, MA, nearby on Rt. 6 SHIPS CHANDLERY AND MARINE SERVICES Marion and the surrounding area offer easy access to world-class marine products and services. You can find their ads via the advertiser index on page 74. • Cay Electronics - cayelectronics.com 401 683-3520 | Portsmouth, RI • Harding Sails - HardingSails.com 508 748-0334 | 732 Mill Street, Marion, MA – on Route 6, 1½ miles west • Landfall Navigation - landfallnavigation.com 800 941-2219 | Stamford, CT • Life Raft & Survival Equipment - lrse.com 800 451-2127 | Tiverton, RI • NorEast Marine Systems NorEastMarineSystems.com | 508 994-1781 Fairhaven, MA • Quantum Sails Design Group quantumsails.com | 401 254-0970 Bristol, RI • R&W Rigging Solutions 508 995-1114 | New Bedford, MA • Sperry Sails - sperrysails.com 508 748-2581 | 11 Marconi Lane, Marion, MA • West Marine - westmarine.com 502 742-0490 | 114 Huttleston Avenue Fairhaven, MA – a 20 minute drive
42 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE OFFSET & DIGITAL PRINTING MAILING & FULFILLMENT SIGNS & BANNERS Wishing the 2025 Marion Bermuda Race participants fair winds and calm seas.
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 43 PROVISIONING AND SUPPLIES In the Village – an easy walk from BYC or the town dock • Marion General Store 508 748-0340 | 140 Front Street, Marion Provides sandwiches, bagels, coffee, full-service butcher, gourmet specialty products and everyday staples along with a full liquor selection. Stop by and ask for Angela or Jack! • Vino di Vino 508 538 0337 | 154 Front Street, Marion A curated wine selection and more Services along Route 6 in either direction • Aubuchon Hardware Store - 508 295-2123 Wareham Plaza, Route 6 east • Cumberland Farms Convenience Store & Gas Intersection Front St. and Route 6, Marion • Fieldstone Farm Market 774 553-5094 | 806 Mill Street, Marion Provides a wide selection of locally sourced produce, groceries, gluten free and vegan items, along with most everything else you may need, plus flowers and wine, too. • Shaw’s Supermarket - 508 295-7813 Wareham Plaza, Route 6 east • Shipyard Galley - shipyardgalley.com 508 758-9408 | 67 Route 6 (County Rd) Mattapoisett, MA Offers sandwiches, prepared foods & frozen entrees • Tri-Town Market - tritownmarket.com 774 779-6016 | 428 Wareham Road, Marion Offers breakfast, smoothies, Greek paninis, yogurt bowls, and sandwiches. SHOPPING AND OTHER SERVICES Two gift & clothing shops are in the Village. A walk on Front Street toward Route 6 offers two banks with ATMs, Uncle Jon’s Coffee Shop as well as Cumberland Farms convenience store. If you feel the need for a full-immersion shopping experience before heading out to sea, Wareham Crossing is just north of Exit 21 off I-195. Photography Looking for special photographs of your family, crew and/or boat while you’re in Marion or at the start of the Race? • Anne T. Converse annetconverse.com | 508 728-6210 Marion, MA, marine photographer • Spectrum Photo spectrumphotofg.ifp3.com | 508 717-7997 Mattapoisett, MA Fran Grenon, owner of Spectrum Photo, is our Official Race Photographer Weather cloths, burgees or flags • Brewer Banner Designs brewerbanner.com | 508 996-6006 New Bedford, MA ACCOMMODATIONS Inns and budget friendly motels are a short drive from Marion town center. • TownePlace Suites by Marriott 508 291-1800 | Wareham, MA • Hampton Inn 877 214-6722 | Fairhaven, MA • Fairfield Inn and Suites 800 916-1392 | New Bedford, MA • Mattapoisett Inn 508 758-9733 | Mattapoisett, MA • Inn on Shipyard Park 508 758-4922 | Mattapoisett, MA • Silvershell Inn - silvershellinn.com 508 299-9810 | Marion, MA • Briarwood Beach Motel 508 295-2766 | Wareham, MA
44 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE DINING Whether you are looking for a morning eyeopener, a mid-day pick-me-up, or an evening meal you and your crew will find a gastronomic experience for everyone. Some are an easy walk from BYC. Others are a short trip by car. Whatever your choice, you will not be disappointed. On foot… • Atlantic Bistro theatlanticbistro.com | 774 553-5314 167 Spring Street, Marion, MA Reservations recommended Dinner from 5PM, sit at the bar or table and enjoy French influenced delicious dining. • Brew Fish Bar & Eatery brewfish.net | 508 748-2986 210 Spring Street (Route 105), Marion, MA Lively sports bar and dining spot with innovative cuisine plus yummy burgers and fries. • Cast – Seaside Bites and Bar castmarion.com | 774 553-5576 7 Cottage Street, Marion, MA Savor the flavors of Latin America with Cast’s tapas-style and full entrée menu plus craft cocktails • Kate’s Simple Eats - katessimpleeats.com 508 748-0042 | 148 Front St., Marion, MA Really good food! Breakfast and lunch to eat in or take out • Uncle Jon’s Coffee - unclejonscoffees.com 508 748-0063 | Marion, MA Fabulous coffee, pastries, salads and sandwiches to eat or to go. By car... • The Gateway Tavern thegatewaytavern.com | 508 291-6040 371 Marion Road, Wareham, MA • Inn on Shipyard Park - theinnonthepark.com 508 758-4922 | Mattapoisett, MA • Oxford Creamery - oxfordcreamery.com 508 758-3847 | Mattapoisett, MA • Rose & Vicki’s - roseandvicki.com 508 748-1333 | Marion, MA • Santoro’s Subs and Pizza santorosmarion.com | 508 748-9599 Marion, MA • River Junction - 774 553-5741 | Marion, MA • Turk’s Restaurant - turksseafood.com 508 758-3117 | Mattapoisett, MA • Walrus and Captain - walrusbistro.com 508 758-8124 | 33 County Road Mattapoisett, MA SIGHTSEEING Don’t miss these local cultural gems, but call for hours of operation. • Marion Art Center (the MAC) marionartcenter.org | 508 748-1266 80 Pleasant Street, Marion, MA A few blocks from BYC, this special art gallery showcases ever-changing exhibits • Marion Natural History Museum marionmuseum.org | 508 748-2098 8 Spring Street, Marion, MA (On the second floor of the Elizabeth Taber Library) • Sippican Historical Society sippicanhistoricalsociety.org | 508 748-1116 139 Front Street, Marion, MA Learn all about Marion’s fascinating history Nearby New Bedford offers great restaurants and culture, but start with: • New Bedford National Whaling Historical Park - nps.gov | 508 996-4095 • New Bedford Whaling Museum whalingmuseum.org | 508 997-0046 This whaling museum is without peer in the world. IMPORTANT - BEFORE YOU LEAVE MARION Bermuda Customs requires all boats to register with SailClear before departing from the US. Skippers need to create an account at www.sailclear.com/index and enter information about their boat and each crew member including their passport number.
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 45 At the heart of all Grand Banks Yachts is a spirit of adventure and tradition, solidified by its iconic name and emphasized by Ocean Racing Champion and CEO Mark Richards. All new Grand Banks Yachts are proudly built using Grand Banks’ proprietary V-Warp® Technology, and inspired by the world of elite ocean racing, delivering superior fuel efficiency and industry-leading performance for the ultimate blue-water adventure. Schedule your private showing by contacting a factory direct sales representative. United States +1 833 222 4330 | GrandBanks.com PROUD SPONSOR OF THE THE TRUE SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE AND TRADITION EXOTIC MATERIALS BUILD TECHNIQUES HULL FORM
46 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE BermudaSloop.org The Bermuda Sloop Foundation (BSF) is entering its 15th year of providing a powerful international award-winning and experiential learning/sail training experience to the youth of Bermuda aboard its Sail Training Vessel Spirit of Bermuda. BSF’s flagship program provides a 5 day/ 4 night residential program to all youth in Bermuda. Considered a rite of passage, Spirit of Bermuda’s middle school program has been described as “One of the most engaging and beneficial programs available to adolescents, which every Bermudian youth should do”. Bermuda Sloop Foundation Learning to sail can be a transformative experience for a child, providing valuable life skills and unforgettable memories. Sailing can build confidence, encourage decision-making and strengthen team building and communication. It also provides a connection to nature and fosters environmental awareness. The three organizations we support below share similar missions of providing local youth with opportunities for character development, personal growth and leadership through sailing, but each has its own unique approach and programs. The Marion Bermuda Race Committee and our sponsoring clubs support and celebrate the work being done to foster a continuing interest in sailing and the development of sailing skills through youth programs like these. For The Next Generation Proud to support Community Boating Proud to support Bermuda Sloop Proud to support Courageous Sailing Written by Sue Belle
2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE | 47 CommunityBoating.org Community Boating Center (CBC) is a youth mentorship and outreach organization that uses boating and the marine environment to involve kids in safe, fun learning experiences and connects them to New Bedford’s most important asset – the waterfront. CBC connects thousands of greater New Bedford youth, ages 5 to 24, to the water through a wide range of Community Boating Center of New Bedford year-round programs including their flagship program, Summer Youth Sailing, which is designed to instill positive life values, such as trust, integrity, sound judgment, and teamwork. Other programs emphasize math, engineering, creativity, and problem-solving. CourageousSailing.org Schools students that includes sailing lessons, swimming instruction, and hands-on marine and environmental science. Students in SSS learn to sail and swim and they make progress in math, science and English language arts with help from Boston Public Schools teachers. Since 1987, Courageous Sailing (CS) has made it possible for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to access and enjoy the water and the sport of sailing as well as meaningful learning opportunities. Its thriving youth program uses sailing, the marine environment, and science education as platforms for socialemotional growth. Swim Sail Science (SSS) is CS’s signature school partner program - a no cost, invitation-only summer program for eligible Boston Public Courageous Sailing INSPIRING LEADERSHIP • TRANSFORMING LIVES Proud to support Community Boating Proud to support Bermuda Sloop Proud to support Courageous Sailing
48 | 2025 MARION-BERMUDA RACE Moorings Dock Space Launch Service Fuel Dock Hauling & Launching Summer Dry Dock Service Maintenance & Repairs Rigging Crane Service Winter Storage Your full service boat yard on beautiful Sippican Harbor 2 Island Wharf Road | Marion, MA 02738 Phone: 508-748-0250 [email protected] www.bardensboatyard.com Inland yard 35 Benson Brook Road | Marion, MA 02738 278 Elm St. Dartmouth, MA 11 Marconi Lane Marion, MA 30A Beach Rd. Vineyard Haven, MA SAILS | CANVAS | CUSH IO NS | SERVICE SPERRYSAILS.COM | 508 - 748 - 2581 GENTIAN, winner of SDL1 2024 Newport Bermuda