PIC Harbour Classic: A vibrant fleet takes to the Waitemata on Saturday
by Fran Holland NZ Multihull Yacht Club 18 Mar 16:34 PDT
Fleet at the start of the 2025 PIC Harbour Classic, Waitemata Harbour © LiveSailDie
The PIC Harbour Classic returns this weekend with up to 66 boats expected on the start line, bringing a vibrant mix of racers, cruisers and classic yachts to the Waitemata Harbour. 56 yachts are already registered, with another 10 finalising their entries ahead of race day.
Last year’s event saw Frank Racing take out both line honours and overall handicap, while Weapon of Choice claimed first monohull across the line. Class victories included Skitzo in the Young 88s, Rat Catcher in the Pied Pipers, and Team Sex in the Sports boats.
"Competition is expected to be just as fierce this year, with crews across all classes ready to battle it out on the water," says Commodore Adrian Percival. "In fact, several well-regarded Greg Elliott-designed yachts are among this year’s entries, including Radioactive, Chain Reaction, and Buoy Racer, all of which have strong track records across the New Zealand racing circuit."
Beyond the official starters, several additional yachts, including Beneteaus, Lagoons and Excess catamarans, will sail from the start line before heading off to Motuihe Island, adding to the scale and spectacle of the fleet setting sail.
"One of the things that makes the PIC Harbour Classic unique is the mass start - seeing the whole fleet set off together at the harbour entrance is truly spectacular," says Percival. "This year, we’ve adjusted the start line slightly to make things safer and less chaotic, so no one should feel daunted. We’ve also mapped out eight possible courses, and on the day we’ll choose the one that best suits the wind, tide and weather. That flexibility helps ensure a great race for everyone."
Spectators won’t want to miss a minute of the action. From the panoramic views at North Head to the beaches along the East Coast Bays, the harbour will be alive with colour and movement as the fleet sets off.
"Events like the PIC Harbour Classic are fantastic because they bring the whole sailing community together," says PIC CEO, Kristen Garner. "As much as it’s a competition, it’s also a great opportunity to enjoy a fantastic day out on the water before the end of the summer sailing season."
And for the competitors, the excitement doesn’t stop there. Prizegiving follows before crews continue to celebrate onboard their own boats or join the afterparty on the Osprey launch moored within Jellicoe Harbour, where all competitors can tie up for the weekend.
The PIC Harbour Classic brings the City of Sails to life, whether you’re on the water or watching from shore.
For further details on the PIC Harbour Classic, visit www.harbourclassic.co.nz.
About the PIC Harbour Classic:
Based on the world-renowned Barcolana Regatta in Italy, the PIC Harbour Classic celebrates Auckland’s love for sailing with a mix of competition and fun, showcasing a mass start and a festival atmosphere.
Event schedule
- Friday, 19 March – Welcome gathering for participants
- Saturday, 20 March (12 noon) – Race start on Waitemata’s Harbour followed by prizegiving and afterparty
Best viewing spots
- North Head
- East Coast Bays