Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race - On course to 80 years of racing
by Newport Ocean Sailing Association 4 Dec 2025 03:35 AEDT
24-26 April 2026
Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race © Newport Ocean Sailing Association
Veteran sailors will be treated to "something old and something new" after crossing the finish line for the 78th annual Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race (N2E) as they enjoy post-regatta festivities in downtown Ensenada for the first time in 15 years.
And newer competitors will get a taste of the traditions and excitement associated with the city during the April 24-26 regatta.
Through renewed relationships with and commitments from the local government, chamber of commerce and tourism offices, including the Mayor of Ensenada — the Hon. Claudia Agatón Muñiz — racers will see improved entry and customs processing, increased docking at the Cruiseport Marina in addition to the Coral, and multiple hotel options in downtown Ensenada that cover all price points.
The historic Riviera Civic and Cultural Center will host the race's trophy and celebratory events, including entertainment and food. Built almost 100 years ago as a hotel and casino, the then-Playa Ensenada Hotel and Casino welcomed many of Hollywood's elite — Bing Crosby and Rita Hayworth, among them — during prohibition. Bar Andaluz, at the Riviera, claims to be the original home of the margarita.
"Returning to downtown Ensenada feels like coming home," said Joe Negron, Commodore for the Newport Ocean Sailing Association. "This race was built on friendship, hospitality and a shared love of the sea. NOSA is grateful to the city and to Coral Marina for helping us honor that legacy. As we move toward our 80th year, we couldn't be more excited to celebrate this next chapter with our racers and our friends in Ensenada."
Joe Negron, Commodore, Newport Ocean Sailing Association, en Español: "Regresar al centro de Ensenada se siente como volver a casa. Esta regata se construyó sobre la amistad, la hospitalidad y un amor compartido por el mar. NOSA da agradecimientos a la ciudad de Ensenada y a Coral y Marina por ayudarnos a honrar este legado. Mientras avanzamos hacia nuestro año número 80, no podríamos estar más emocionados de celebrar este nuevo capítulo con nuestros participantes y con nuestros amigos en Ensenada."
Registration is currently open for the 2026 Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race through the NOSA website, nosa.org. In addition to the traditional N2E competition, NOSA also presents the shorter Newport to San Diego race, now in its eighth year. Both races will start April 24, from the Balboa Pier.