THE CLASSIC YACHT PERPETUAL GUARDIAN SAILING REGATTA 2026 – 6-8th MARCH 2026
The biggest yacht racing event on the CYA calendar 2026 is back!
✨ The Perpetual Guardian Classic Sailing Regatta ✨
Three glorious days of racing, rivalry, and timeless elegance, as some of the world’s most spectacular classic yachts stretch their legs and duel it out on the Waitematā Harbour.
Watch sailing at its most dramatic: beautifully restored wooden yachts—many over 120 years old—powered by wind, skill, and a little bit of stubborn pride.
With a team of Australian sailors on board, competition will be fierce
UP CLOSE:
Come down to the marina behind the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron on Westhaven Drive and soak up the atmosphere during the pre-race rigging and preparation. Its a rare chance to see these legends of the water up close before they head out to battle
FROM THE SHORE:
Or grab a waterfront spot and watch them race across the Waitemata – canvas full, hulls heeled, history in motion
Event Schedule
Friday 6 March
• Rigging from 1:00pm
• Racing from 3:00pm
Saturday 7 March
• Rigging from 9:00am
• Racing from 11:00am
Sunday 8 March
• Rigging from 9:00am
• Racing from 11:00am
Divisions
Division 1 – Classic A Bermudan
Division 2 – Classic A Gaff
Division 3 – Classic B Bermudan
Division 4 – Classic B Gaff
Division 5 – Modern
For the initiated (and the curious), this is what a Classic Division yacht sail configuration and hull shape can look like
A-Gaff rig – Separate topsail A-Bermudan – single mainsail Modern -Less traditional shape and construction
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