Ahoy! Lake Chelan Sailing Regatta returns in September with wind, whimsy and water balloons

CHELAN — The Lake Chelan Sailing Association is gearing up to host the 52nd almost annual (everyone’s boat sank on the way there last year, apparently) Lake Chelan Sailing Regatta on September 13 and 14. Open to all sailboats and sailors — regardless of experience or level of sea legs — the regatta promises friendly competition, unpredictable conditions, and a healthy dose of maritime mischief.

Races will include both one-design and Portsmouth classes, and all sailors are welcome aboard. Registration opens bright and early at 8:00 a.m. Saturday, followed by a skipper’s meeting at 10:00 a.m. The first race sets sail at 11:00 a.m., with no starts after 4:00 p.m. That should leave just enough time to hoist a pint or untangle the jib.

On Saturday evening, participants are invited to drop anchor at Rusty’s Nut Farm for a pulled pork dinner and party ($10 per person). Instruments are welcome (but no “Wonderwall”), and merriment is practically mandatory.

Racing resumes Sunday morning at 10:00 a.m., with no starts after 2:00 p.m. — a courteous nod to the sailors with a rudder on the road afterward. The crew hopes to run at least three races Saturday and two on Sunday, but the final tally will depend on wind, willpower, and whether a mutiny breaks out.

While it’s not a points race for most classes, and formal protests are discouraged, sailors are encouraged to settle disputes with friendly conversation — or water balloons at ten paces. All participants are expected to comply with Washington State Boating Law and, more or less, with the U.S. Sailing Association’s Racing Rules (or at least the parts organizers remember).

Lake Chelan offers a variety of lodging and camping options for visiting sailors and their crews. The Lake Chelan Chamber of Commerce (1-800-4CHELAN) and Chelan City Parks (509-682-8023) can help with accommodations. For those on a tighter budget or in search of rustic charm, free dry camping is available at Rusty’s Nut Farm, featuring a grassy field, a porta-potty, and your choice of house shower or garden hose.

Whether you're a seasoned skipper or a landlubber looking for adventure, the Lake Chelan Regatta invites you to sail in, laugh hard, and enjoy the ride — come hell, high water, or zero wind.

To register online and pay in advance, visit https://www.sailchelan.com/regatta/registration or to register and pay by check, https://www.sailchelan.com/regatta/registration-nonstripe.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media