The Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race (N2E) stands as one of the most celebrated and enduring sailing events on the West Coast, drawing sailors from around the globe to compete in this prestigious regatta. Organized by the Newport Ocean Sailing Association (NOSA), the 2025 edition of the race will take place from April 25 through April 27, marking its 77th year of competition. This race is not only a test of skill and endurance but also a cherished tradition that brings together the sailing community in a spirit of camaraderie and adventure.
The Log spoke with NOSA Marketing Officer Peter Bretschger about this year’s Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race, who confirmed that the event is open to a broad range of vessels, saying, “There are five racing class splits among PHRF & ORR, ULDB, Multihulls (ORCA), and Cruising Classes with both Spinnaker and Non-Spinnaker divisions.”
The planning for the race begins right after the prior race is completed. NOSA is run by its Commodore, Phil Hertzfeld, Vice Commodore of Race Operations Joe Negron and Vice Commodore of Administration, John Sangmeister,” explained Bretschger. “There are nine Directors representing Yacht Clubs throughout the SCYA. During the race, there are over 70 volunteers involved with race management, coordination with Mexican partners in Ensenada, online information updates and social media, merchandise sales and media coordination. Planning is different for both race courses — The classic race to Ensenada (135 miles) and an alternative race to San Diego (90 miles).”
Bretschger said that there are currently over 90 boats entered but that they expect a 120 boat fleet with over 100 going to Ensenada.
When asked about course records, Peter noted, “In 2022, Rio100, a custom Bakewell White owned by Manouch Moshayedi, decimated the 125nm race record for a monohull with a finish time of 07:02:17 — beating the previous 2016 record by more than two and a half hours.” He added, “The current multihull record was set in 2016 by the MOD70 Orion, finishing in 5:17:26.” As for last year’s standout performance, “John Raymont’s Fast Exit II, a modified Kerr 52, was the first monohull to finish, clocking in at 10:24:08.”
When asked about safety protocols for racers in the Newport to Ensenada Race (N2E), Peter explained that the event is conducted under the U.S. Sailing Safety Equipment Requirements (USSER) Coastal Category for both monohulls and multihulls. He added that participating yachts are subject to inspection in accordance with USSER 1.3 to ensure compliance and maintain safety standards throughout the race.
“NOSA offers safety seminars during January and February,” said Bretschger. “The seminars cover the logistics of racing to Ensenada, review of key safety issues, special information on racing at night as well as what NOSA calls the ABC of the race. All the information is made available through the NOSA website nosa.org. The website is updated regularly throughout the year with a special emphasis during the month of April. NOSA also issues Yellowbrick Race trackers, which allows NOSA and the public to monitor every boats position on the race course.”
One of the key safety features of the race is the use of YB Trackers, which allow race officials and spectators to monitor the progress of each boat in real-time. This technology enhances safety by enabling swift response in the event of an emergency and adds an exciting element for those following the race from shore.
Pre-race festivities include a sendoff party at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club on Thursday night, while “multiple events are planned at the Coral Hotel and Marina in Ensenada, including the trophy presentation at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 27, 2025, as well as another ceremony at Silver Gate Yacht Club in San Diego,” Peter shared. Maintaining a cross-border partnership is a key to the event’s success, and Peter emphasized that “NOSA has long established relationships with several partners in Mexico, including the Coral Hotel and Marina, business leaders, and the Mexican Admiralty.” He added that “a delegation from Ensenada will join the pre-race festivities alongside officials from the City of Newport Beach.” As for awards, Peter said, “NOSA is famous for the many historic trophies awarded to all class winners, with special honors for overall winners, best Newport Beach finish, double-handed crews, all-female crews, and even manufacturer awards for Catalina and Beneteau yachts.”
With a history dating back to 1948 and past participation reaching over 600 yachts in the 1980s, the race remains a beloved West Coast sailing tradition. “This year we’re expecting around 120 competitors between the two racecourses,” Peter noted, referencing both the traditional 135-nautical-mile route to Ensenada and the 90-mile course to San Diego. For those planning to watch, Peter added, “Spectators can view the race start from the Newport Pier starting at 11 a.m. on Friday, April 25.”
The Newport Ocean Sailing Association (NOSA), a non-profit dedicated to promoting yacht racing in Southern California, is led by a board of seasoned sailors and U.S. Sailing Certified Race Officials. Known for its strong support of amateur watersports, NOSA also provides financial assistance to junior sailing programs and non-profits that foster seamanship and boating skills.
At the heart of NOSA’s mission is its flagship event, the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race (N2E), a 125-nautical-mile offshore race from Newport Beach, California, to Ensenada, Mexico. Since its inception in 1948, the race has become a celebrated fixture on the international sailing calendar, drawing a wide range of competitors — from family cruisers to high-performance racing yachts — and continuing to grow in reputation and reach. NOSA has built its legacy on high standards of race management, safety, and sportsmanship, consistently delivering a world-class competition year after year.
Sailing the N2E requires tactical thinking and resilience, with crews navigating unpredictable wind conditions, ocean currents, and strategic decisions such as whether to sail inside or outside the Coronado Islands. These choices can significantly affect finishing times, adding a layer of intrigue and challenge to the race. Yet the N2E is more than a test of seamanship — it’s also a social and cultural experience. From the lively sendoff party at Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club to the vibrant festivities in Ensenada, including the popular post-race stay at the Hotel Coral & Marina, the event fosters a sense of community and celebration.
“The Newport to Ensenada Race is a cherished tradition that showcases the best of our sailing community,” said the Mayor of Newport Beach in a recent letter to competitors. “We are proud to host this iconic race and welcome sailors from around the world to experience the beauty and hospitality of Newport Beach.”
As the race heads into its 77th edition in 2025, NOSA continues to honor its rich legacy while evolving to meet the needs of new generations of sailors. With its dynamic blend of competition, camaraderie, and coastal scenery, the N2E offers an unforgettable offshore experience. Whether you’re a veteran racer or a first-time entrant, the race delivers not only the thrill of sailing but the joy of being part of a storied maritime tradition that continues to inspire.
For more details or to register, visit www.nosa.org.
