2026 Camden Classics Cup wrap-up
by Camden Classics Cup 30 Jul 13:34 EST
July 23-25, 2026
Ten years ago, we envisioned more than another sailing regatta. The goal was to create an event that celebrated the timeless beauty of classic yachts, the craftsmanship behind them, and the vibrant maritime community that defines Camden, Maine.
Last weekend, under 48 hours of picture-perfect weather, that vision was on full display as the 10th Annual Camden Classics Cup presented by Lyman-Morse welcomed an impressive fleet of over 80 classic yachts, modern classics, modern performance yachts, and daysailers to the waters of Penobscot Bay. Blessed with beautiful summer weather, spirited racing, and a full schedule of shoreside festivities, the milestone anniversary once again reminded participants why the Camden Classics Cup has become one of the northeast's premier classic sailing events.
From Thursday evening's Owners & Captains Reception on the Wharf at Lyman-Morse through Saturday night's awards celebration, competitors, owners, families, and spectators enjoyed a weekend that blended competitive sailing with the unmistakable hospitality of the Maine coast. Saturday morning's Parade of Sail once again transformed Camden Harbor into a living maritime museum as beautifully restored yachts paraded before thousands of spectators lining the waterfront.
The event's tenth anniversary reflected years of steady growth and an enduring commitment from volunteers, sponsors, racers, and the local community.
"Reaching our tenth year is something we're incredibly proud of" said Regatta Organizer Holly Paterson. "Every year the event continues to evolve while staying true to its original purpose of bringing together incredible boats, passionate sailors, young racers, and our entire community. It's become much more than a regatta."
The event also featured the Annual Camden Classics Cup Youth Regatta, where young sailors from across New England competed just outside Camden Harbor, continuing the event's commitment to introducing the next generation to competitive sailing. This year's event brought a record number of junior sailors to race in 420s and Optis: 115 sailors from 11 clubs participated in a full day of racing, organized by the Camden Area Youth Seamanship Program (CAYSP) headed by Alexander Gardullo.
Complete race results are available at www.camdenclassicscup.com.
Highlights include:
2026 Class Winners:
- Classic 1: Palawan
- CRF Vintage 1: Bijou II
- Class Day Racer 1: Besherte
- Modern Tradition 1: Jax
- Modern Tradition 2: Seaborn
- PHRF Spinnaker 1: Kaos
- PHRF Spinnaker 2: Skoot
- PHRF Cruising 1: Cache
- PHRF Cruising 2: Joy
- Camden Classics Cup Overall Trophy: Bijou II
- Lyman-Morse Trophy: Seaborn
- Stephens Waring Spirit of Tradition Trophy: Seaborn
- Concordia Trophy: Snow Falcon
- Artisan Boatworks Day Racer Trophy: Besherte
- Female Skipper Award: Moondance
- Yacht Club Challenge: New York Yacht Club
We extend their sincere appreciation to the many volunteers, race officials, sponsors, the Classic Yacht Owners Association, the Town of Camden, Camden Area Youth Seamanship Program, participating yacht clubs, and everyone who helped make the 10th Camden Classics Cup another unforgettable celebration of classic sailing.
Mark your calendars for next year -- the 11th Annual Camden Classics Cup is scheduled for July 29-31, 2027!
Full Results
Camden Classics Cup Youth Regatta
115 Junior Sailors!
The next generation of sailors stole the show at this year's Youth Regatta, with a record-setting 115 junior sailors racing Optis and 420s representing 11 yacht clubs from across the region. Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, this event remained completely free for every participant thanks to Jeff's Marine and Maine Maritime Academy.
Lunch was provided by French & Brawn. Countless volunteers gave their time and energy to make the day a success, creating an unforgettable experience for these young competitors. The regatta concluded with awards generously provided by Maine Boats, Homes & Harbors, celebrating outstanding performances and a fantastic day on the water.
Complete race results are available at 2026 Camden Classics Cup Youth Regatta. Highlights include:
Optimist Championship: Lucy Perry
Optimist Green: Hudson Clark
420 Spinnaker: Whit Cowan and Anders Bartsch
420 Non-Spinnaker: Agatha Amory and Taylor Underwood
Youth Regatta Results