The Newport Ocean Sailing Association will host the 78th running of the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race on April 24, 2026, continuing one of the West Coast’s longest-running offshore sailing traditions as the event approaches its 80th anniversary milestone.
For 2026, NOSA has announced a “Back to Its Roots” shift that brings race headquarters, post-race celebrations, and trophy presentations back to downtown Ensenada. The decision reflects an effort to reconnect the race with its historic finish city while creating a more accessible and celebratory experience for racers, crews, and the wider sailing community. Organizers describe the move as a convergence of tradition and opportunity, designed to energize the event and strengthen its ties to Ensenada’s cultural and waterfront core.
Race organizers emphasized that while shoreside activities are moving downtown, there will be no changes to the race course or finish line. The Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race will continue to follow its traditional offshore route, preserving the navigational challenge and competitive character that have defined the race for nearly eight decades.
NOSA was also clear that the shift does not alter its long-standing relationship with Hotel Coral & Marina, which remains a key partner for N2E participants. The property will continue to offer NOSA-discounted hotel accommodations, slip availability, and a full-service marina environment familiar to returning racers. NOSA noted that the Director General of Hotel Coral & Marina, in his role as President of ProTurismo Ensenada, has been fully supportive and actively involved in the organization’s return to downtown festivities, reinforcing the collaborative nature of the partnership.
To support expanded participation and streamline arrivals in 2026, NOSA has also highlighted new marina options for competitors. Ensenada Cruiseport Village Marina will serve as the primary processing location for arrival, departure, and Temporary Import Permit paperwork. The downtown marina is offering N2E-discounted slip rates, a “pay two, stay three” promotion, and space for vessels up to 135 feet, with the ability to accommodate larger vessels by special arrangement. For participants staying at Hotel Coral & Marina, shuttle service will be provided to and from the Cruiseport Marina to complete required processing, allowing sailors to enjoy downtown activities while retaining flexible lodging and marina choices.
In 2026, race headquarters and all official celebrations will take place at the historic Riviera Civic & Cultural Center. Originally built nearly a century ago as a hotel and casino, the Riviera remains one of Ensenada’s most iconic landmarks and is home to Bar Andaluz, widely recognized as the birthplace of the margarita. A detailed schedule of race-week events in Ensenada, along with pre-race activities in Newport Beach, will be released in the coming months.
To accommodate a range of preferences and budgets, NOSA has negotiated discounted hotel rates at multiple properties, including downtown hotels near the Riviera and Cruiseport Marina, as well as established accommodations outside the city center such as Hotel Coral and Hotel Punta Morro. Participants can choose between being steps from downtown festivities or opting for a quieter marina-based stay while still benefiting from NOSA-negotiated rates.
As part of its outreach efforts, NOSA will host informational seminars for prospective and returning participants in February 2026, including events at Dana Point Yacht Club, Long Beach Yacht Club, and Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club. The seminars will cover race updates, marina and hotel logistics, and guidance for planning arrivals in Ensenada.
Founded as a nonprofit organization, NOSA is led by experienced offshore sailors and U.S. Sailing–certified race officials and supported by a large volunteer base. In addition to managing some of Southern California’s most prominent offshore races, the organization supports junior sailing programs and other nonprofit initiatives that promote sailing, boating, and seamanship.
With its return to downtown Ensenada and continued emphasis on tradition, partnerships, and accessibility, the 2026 Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race is positioned to honor its legacy while building momentum toward its 80th anniversary and the decades ahead.
