There is nothing like sailing off the Jersey Shore. But sometimes, you don’t want to sail; you want to watch a race or simply cruise close to a harbor. No matter what you want to do, the Jersey Shore has several boating events that you can either participate in or observe. Many of these are held through yachting associations, so if you want to participate, you may want to contact those associations to ask about membership requirements. From music to racing to a boat-buying expo, there is no shortage of boat events to attend during your next vacation at the Jersey Shore.
June 27: Mid-Atlantic Yacht Racing Association Youth Regatta
Tucked away on the western side of Wildwood Crest is Sunset Lake, and the Mid-Atlantic Yacht Racing Association (MAYRA) will hold its Youth Regatta on June 27. Watch the regatta for free from the beautiful grounds along Sunset Lake.
Thursdays From June to August: South Jersey Summer Series
This is for junior sailors who belong to MAYRA. The first regatta is on June 27 in Wildwood Crest, the second is on July 3 (that’s a Wednesday since the next day is a holiday) in Ocean City, the third is in Avalon on July 11, the fourth is on July 18 in Brigantine, the fifth is on July 25 in Stone Harbor, the sixth is on August 1 in Collingswood, and the seventh is on August 8 in Cape May. August 13 is the awards event in Sea Isle City. There are also team racing events in August and other championships for youth if you have younger boaters in the family.
June to August: Offshore Racing Circuit
If you’re a member of MAYRA, you can participate in the offshore racing circuit, a series of regattas held around the region. June 22 is the Lewes Cup, held in Lewes, Delaware; July 20 is the Avalon Cup, held in Avalon, New Jersey; and August 3 is the Cape to Cape Challenge in May, New Jersey. July 27 has three championship regattas: Flying Scot in Avalon, Sunfish in Brigantine, and C420 in Brigantine. August 11 is the Laser Championship, held in Cape May, New Jersey.
September 14-15: Bruce Springsteen Concert at the Jersey Shore Festival
This may not be a boating event, but at least one boating company has arranged boat tours during the concert so that you can watch from the water. The Sea.Hear.Now Festival (often called the Jersey Shore Festival) is a two-day concert series showcasing several bands, with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band being a major draw on September 15. Check out boating companies in the area and see which ones are offering on-the-water tours to listen to the tunes or consider taking your own boat out.
September 27-29: Jersey Shore Boat Sale and Expo
Need a bigger boat? This three-day expo lets you look at new and used boats of different sizes. It’s held in Lakewood and costs $10 for adults per day. A “Kids’ Cove” will also have activities for the little ones.
Whether you want to stay close to shore or head out to participate in a race, you’ll want to ensure your boat remains protected from the elements when not in use. If you’re interested in boat covers in Wildwood, NJ, or need marine canvas in Ocean City, NJ, contact Elemental Enclosures. Get canvas coverings to keep you and your crew comfortable while underway and keep your boat protected and clean while not in use.
