Internationals, visit New Zealand for the PIC Coastal Classic Auckland to Russell yacht race, and tick off a bucket list challenge at the same time.
The New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club is inviting international entrants to its famous annual race.
Starting in the city of Auckland on the morning of Friday 20 October ‘the Coastal’ is only 119 nautical miles long but it is regarded as one of the world’s iconic races, kickstarting the New Zealand sailing season for more than thirty years.
With a course that starts off Devonport Wharf in Auckland, and finishes off the infamous whaling town of Russell, it takes in classic New Zealand scenery, including the Hauraki Gulf, the exposed east coast of the North Island, and the Bay of Islands, an enclave of more than 150 uninhabited islands that is a true haven for boaties.
Race records have in recent years been held by super maxis including Konica Minolta (Zana), and Neville Crichton’s Alfa Romeo. In 2014 a record of five hours and 13 minutes was set by the Orma 60 TeamVodafone, which means that the next breakthrough will occur at five hours, and the race is literally on to see who will get there first.
“Experiencing New Zealand as a Coastal Classic entrant is a unique way to see the best side of the country,” says Greer Houston, Commodore of the New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club.
“We can offer you a warm welcome and introduce you to people who can facilitate your berthage, shipping, accommodation, and other arrangements”
Greer says that the weather in October is warming in preparation for summer, making a fast downwind race highly likely.
www.coastalclassic.co.nz - email info@coastalclassic.co.nz