How to Celebrate Summer Sailstice

Mark your calendars, sailors, because Summer Sailstice is coming up on June 24, 2023. And if you don’t have plans yet, we hope today’s blog post will change that. Keep reading for an overview of 10 epic sailing celebrations that you won't want to miss.

What Is Summer Sailstice?

Summer Sailstice is the annual celebration of sailing was founded in 2001 by John Arndt. It aims to share and celebrate a global love of the sport, so most events are free to all participants. Since 2001, the event has grown from 200 to nearly 5,000 boats, with about 19,000 estimated participants annually.  

When Is Summer Sailstice?

Since its inception, the annual Summer Sailstice has been held on the weekend nearest the summer solstice. This year that date is Saturday, June 24, 2023. 

Summer-Sailstice

Why Celebrate Sailing?

Summer Sailstice unites sailors worldwide to share and celebrate their passion for sailing. As many of you know, sailing has expanded the horizons of humankind, connected continents, and enriched the lives of boaters worldwide. And by celebrating Summer Sailstice, we help sailors connect with one another, introduce the beauty of sailing to the non-sailing world, and encourage people to protect the waters on which they sail.  

Learn More About Sailboats

10 Sailing Events During Summer Sailstice

Need help figuring out how to spend Summer Sailstice? Check out these ten exciting sailing events happening this year: 

1. Green Bay Sail & Paddle

Green Bay Sail & Paddle is celebrating Summer Sailstice bright and early with ‘Intro to Sailing’ and ‘Intro to Kayaking’ classes. Then, sailboat rentals will be available from 1 pm to 4 pm. And finally, they’ll end their evening with a Couple’s Night Sailing event at 5:30 pm. 

2. St. Peter’s Marina

The folks at St. Peter’s Marina will set sail at noon and head to the Bras d’Or Lake for an afternoon of socializing, floating, and fun. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can anchor for the night with barbecue, beverages, and music. 

3. Hunters on the Chesapeake 

The Hunter Sailing Association is setting sail on Reed Creek off the Chester River (with a very enticing theme of Bahamian refreshments). 

The crew will be sharing Bahamian food and sampling island libations. So, bring a dish to share and your bathing suit! And, of course, remember our tips for safely swimming around boats. 

Read Next: 10 Safety Tips for Swimming Around Boats

4. Sailin’ the Snowpack

This sailing event invites all Utah sailors to venture across Utah Lake to Pelican Bay Marina on June 23rd. 

Participants are encouraged to bring potluck food, their own candlelit picnic, or pizza to be delivered at the dock. Then, get ready to listen to music and swap sailing stories well into the night. 

On Saturday (6/24) morning, participants are invited to grab a leisurely breakfast or ride the early morning southerlies back to their Summer Sailstice festivities. 

5. CreekFleet Summer Sailstice Regatta

The CreekFleet Summer Sailstice Regatta takes place on Sunday, June 25, and the event is open to anyone with a daysailer less than 20 feet long. They aim to get three boat races in before lunch and at least three after lunch. So, come prepared and pack a picnic meal to enjoy in between races. 

6. Sunset Sail on San Francisco Bay

Cruise Summer Sailstice in style by boarding the Schooner Freda B in downtown Sausalito and sailing San Francisco Bay. Get ready to spot Alcatraz, Angel Island, the Marin Headlands, the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Bridge, and the San Francisco Skyline – all from the special vantage point of the water! Purchase tickets here

7. 10th Annual Cherokee Lake, Tennessee Summer Sailstice Pursuit Race

This annual event is the final day of their Spring Series, marking the beginning of summer cruising. You can find all the necessary info on the Cherokee Lake Sailing Club’s Facebook Page. 

8. ASA Sailing Classes, Intro Sailing Classes, or a Sunset Cruise

Join SailTime Houston for an ‘Intro to Sailing Course’ on board the beautiful Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349. Participants will learn the basics of sailing while cruising along Upper Galveston Bay. If relaxation is more your thing, you can hop onboard the sunset cruise instead. 

9. Get on the Water (GOTW)/Get on the Air (GOTA)

This Oakland Yacht Club-sponsored event welcomes community members to explore science, technology, and engineering. Several local organizations will be there with demonstrations, discussions, and hands-on learning opportunities for the whole family. 

10. Summer Sailstice in Second Life 2023

Last but not least, Summer Sailstice in Second Life invites everyone to join “the greatest sailing experience in the metaverse.” The event features yacht clubs, marinas, races, boat displays, and cruises. Plus – they’re promising the presence of mermen and mermaids. 

To find more Summer Sailstice events, check out the Summer Sailstice events map

Activity:
Sailing