Eight yachts are racing in Wellington's Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club's Fitzroy Bay Race, with the fleet tracking across Wellington Harbour and out towards the exposed waters of Cook Strait.
Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club's 2026/27 Fitzroy Bay Race is under way in Wellington today, Saturday 31 October, with yachts making their way across the harbour towards its southern entrance.
The race attracted 14 entries, including 13 from Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club and Rascal Racing, skippered by Mike Dunlop, representing Evans Bay Yacht and Motor Boat Club. This number reduced to eight for the start of racing.
For those unfamiliar with Wellington's sailing waters, the course provides an interesting mix of sheltered harbour racing and more exposed coastal sailing.
From Wellington Harbour to Fitzroy Bay
The yachts start off Royal Port Nicholson Yacht Club, on Wellington's waterfront, before heading towards mark 7 in the harbour. From there, the course takes them south towards the harbour entrance, between Point Halswell on the western side and the eastern shoreline near Eastbourne.
Once beyond the harbour entrance, the fleet heads towards Fitzroy Bay, on the eastern side of the approaches to Wellington Harbour. This stretch is more exposed to the weather and sea conditions of Cook Strait.
Competitors are enjoying fine, sunny sailing conditions, with temperatures around 13°C and southerly winds ranging from 5 to 13 knots, easing as the afternoon progresses. Conditions may be more challenging beyond the harbour entrance, where yachts are exposed to Cook Strait. With differing wind forecasts, the breeze could play an important role in how the Fitzroy Bay Race unfolds.
Follow the Fitzroy Bay Race live
Follow the fleet's positions, speeds and progress on the live race tracker below.
