This comprehensive guide offers critical logistical information for all attendees of the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta in St. Petersburg. With over 200 registered teams, efficient planning is paramount for a successful event. Participants are strongly advised to complete registrations and arrive early to facilitate smoother operations. This article details boat launching and retrieval procedures, designates specific berthing locations for various fleets, outlines parking options, provides instructions for trailer storage, and highlights important navigation warnings regarding shallow waters. Adhering to these guidelines will enhance the overall regatta experience for everyone involved.
The regatta is scheduled to attract more than 200 participants, leading to a bustling waterfront environment across multiple sites. To manage the significant number of boats and ensure timely processes, early registration is highly encouraged. The primary periods for boat launching and hauling are Thursday, February 12, and Sunday, February 15, respectively. To mitigate potential delays and long queues, teams are urged to launch their vessels earlier in the week if feasible and consider hauling out on Monday. For any inquiries or assistance, the St. Petersburg Yacht Club (SPYC) dockmaster can be contacted directly via email at dockmaster@spyc.org.
Launching operations at the Sailing Center will utilize one 2-ton and one 3-ton crane. It is important to note that access between Bayshore Drive and the Sailing Center will be strictly regulated to maintain order and safety. Various fleets will be accommodated at different locations: the 29ers, Melges 15s, Nacra 15s, and Windmills will be stationed at Elva Rouse Park (901 North Shore Drive NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701). These fleets may start arriving on Wednesday, February 11, but must depart the park by Sunday, February 15. A crucial reminder: vehicles are prohibited on parkland grass, and overnight RV parking or camping is not permitted. Security personnel will be present overnight at Elva Rouse Park and the temporary dockage south of the Sailing Center; however, personal belongings are left at the owner's risk.
The Lightning Fleet will follow a specific schedule, launching before each day's race and hauling out once racing concludes. Members of this fleet can arrive at the Sailing Center on Thursday, February 12, and must vacate by Sunday, February 15. All other participating fleets will be distributed between the St. Petersburg Sailing Center and the SPYC Downtown Marina. A detailed dockage map will be provided to illustrate the precise distribution of these fleets. Participants should consult this map to confirm their designated berthing area.
Regarding transportation and parking, it is important to note that no vehicle parking will be available at the Sailing Center or the St. Petersburg Yacht Club during the event. A map indicating recommended parking locations is accessible via a provided link. Additionally, participants are encouraged to utilize the city’s bike-sharing service, Lime, for convenient short-distance travel. Daily parking facilities are available at several locations, including Al Lang Stadium (note: not available on Saturday, February 14), South Core Parking Garage, McNulty Garage, and Sundial Garage.
Trailer storage is available free of charge at Harborage Marina. Trailers must be officially registered and tagged before being moved to the marina, and all trailers must be removed from the property by February 16. Registration for trailers can be completed online, and tags can be obtained at the Sailing Center located at 250 2nd Ave SE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Finally, all competitors are alerted to the presence of two shallow sandbar areas that may be encountered while navigating to and from the racecourses. These are located southwest of the T-Dock at the Sailing Center and north of The Pier when approaching or departing Elva Rouse Park. Awareness of these areas is crucial for safe passage.
To conclude, successful participation in the Helly Hansen Sailing World Regatta hinges on meticulous preparation and adherence to the established logistical framework. From early registration and strategic boat management to understanding parking constraints and being mindful of navigational hazards, every detail contributes to a smooth and enjoyable event. Event organizers have put considerable effort into planning, and participants' cooperation in following these guidelines will ensure a safe, efficient, and memorable regatta for all.