Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race- New finish line, new HQ

by Rich Roberts on 31 Aug 2011 Next spring will mark the 65th year that friends and families of sailors in the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race will enjoy seeing them off, and it also will be the first time that most will be able to see them finish.

Video cameras rolling and cell phone shutters clicking, they'll cheer and record the memorable moments … some from the shore, some without leaving their rooms at the Hotel Coral and Marina.

The Newport Ocean Sailing Association is deep into arrangements to move race headquarters about a half-mile from downtown near the Ensenada plaza to the Coral on the northern edge of the colorful resort city, where racing boats and families can be accommodated. Free and frequent shuttle service between the Coral and downtown will be available for visitors to enjoy the festive ambiance of both places.

'The 65th race will open a new era for Newport to Ensenada,' Commodore Chuck Iverson said. 'It will be more inclusive for sailors and their families and broaden the experience with the Ensenada community.'

The change also will prompt the finish line to be relocated from just outside Ensenada Harbor, which is generally out of sight from land, to the northern side of Todos Santos Bay, from where the boats will be visible in their tactical approaches to the finish line before proceeding into the Coral Marina or to the usual moorings downtown. The 353 slips in the marina can accommodate boats from 30 to 65 feet. There are end ties for boats up to 109 feet.

The 125-nautical mile race will start on Friday, April 27.

NOSA has secured special rates for rooms and the marina. There are 47 guestrooms. Rooms open to balconies. Televisions come with cable/satellite channels and pay movies. Refrigerators and coffee/tea makers are provided. Bathrooms include shower/tub combinations with handheld showerheads, phones, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers.This Ensenada hotel provides complimentary wireless high-speed Internet access. Business-friendly amenities include direct-dial phones. Separate sitting areas, air conditioning, and complimentary bottled water are also included. Microwaves, extra towels/bedding, and wake-up calls can be requested. Housekeeping is provided daily.There 147 guest rooms, which open to balconies. http://hotelcoral.com/en/

NOSA website