BTA Welcome Start Of Newport Bermuda Race
The Bermuda Tourism Authority is welcoming sailors and spectators alike as the historic 54th Newport Bermuda Race gets underway, celebrating 100 years of partnership between the Cruising Club of America and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club.
A spokesperson said, “As the maritime world turns its focus to Newport, Rhode Island, the Bermuda Tourism Authority [BTA] is proud to join the global sailing community in anticipation of the 54th Newport Bermuda Race. This iconic, 636-mile blue-water passage, set to commence on Friday, June 19, 2026, marks more than just a biennial race—it is a celebration of 100 years of historic collaboration between the Cruising Club of America [CCA] and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club [RBYC].
“Widely known as the “Thrash to the Onion Patch,” this grueling race is revered as one of the world’s oldest ocean races and most challenging offshore tests. It is a true rite of passage that demands unwavering skill, strategy, and resilience as sailors navigate the formidable Gulf Stream and thousands of miles of open Atlantic Ocean.”
“For many, just completing this race from Newport to Bermuda is a once-in-a-lifetime achievement,” said Michael DeCouto, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for the Bermuda Tourism Authority. “When you see the fleet emerging from the Atlantic to greet the St. David’s Lighthouse, it is a moment of profound transformation. The exhaustion of the ‘thrash’ is instantly replaced by the exhilaration of having conquered one of the most storied courses in sailing. Bermuda is ready to welcome these sailors with our legendary hospitality, turning the finish line into a multi-day celebration of grit, camaraderie, and island culture.”
A Spectacle of Sailing in Newport
A spokesperson added, “The excitement begins in Newport at the Starting Line Festival on June 19. Held at the natural amphitheatre of Fort Adams State Park from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM EDT, the event is free and open to the public. Spectators can enjoy:
- “Live Coverage: A high-tech “Starting Line Live Show” powered by Ørsted, featuring commentary on the big screen.
- “Family & Community: A Kids Zone featuring activities like Ørsted wind turbine building, local food trucks, a beer garden serving Whalers Beer and Goslings Rum, and live music from the Riki Rocksteady All Stars.
- “The Start: The action culminates at 1:00 PM EST with the Newport Artillery cannon fire, signaling the countdown for the first class of yachts to launch their journey toward Bermuda.
A Hero’s Welcome in Bermuda
“Upon reaching the finish line off St. David’s Lighthouse, sailors will be embraced by the local community. The festivities at the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club [RBYC] will celebrate the fleet’s arrival with a series of events throughout the week:
- “June 24 – Harbour Nights & BBQ on de Dock: A joyful weekly street fair celebration featuring Bermudian artisans and business owners, and local cuisine stretching from the east end of Front Street to the RBYC Marina.
- “June 26 – Gosling’s ‘Bash on the Onion Patch’: The island’s largest cocktail party, featuring live music and local food vendors at Victoria Park in Hamilton.
- “June 27 – Prize Giving at Government House: An elegant, storied ceremony celebrating the winners and the shared spirit of the race.
**Exact timing for arrivals in Bermuda is TBD
“The 2026 Thrash is one of the most significant in the race’s history, marking a century of partnership between the Cruising Club of America and the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club,” said Race Chair Andrew Kallfelz. “It is a testament to the enduring bond between our two sailing communities. It is a privilege to organize an event that continues to attract such a competitive and dedicated fleet, and we look forward to a memorable week of competition and celebration.”
A spokesperson added, “The Newport Bermuda Race continues to inspire generations of sailors, proving that the love of the ocean remains a powerful, unifying force. Whether following the fleet live from Newport or joining the festivities at the RBYC in Bermuda, spectators are invited to witness this historic centennial chapter. For live tracking, race updates, and detailed schedules for both Newport and Bermuda events, visit bermudarace.com.”
