The 2025 Marion to Bermuda race kicked off just after noon on Saturday, June 20. The ships practiced back and forth across Buzzards Bay until they began their multi-day journey. Coming across Penikese Island and making their way around the Elizabethan Islands, the ship Redwood with skipper Pike Severance (Oyster Bay, New York) took the lead, which it would maintain for nearly the entirety of the journey. This year there were 21 boats competing.
The ships rocketed out of the bay, which had fairly choppy conditions and heavy winds. There were sustained winds of over 30 knots (35~ mph) and 5-foot swells. Skies were clear and blue, however.
Three yacht clubs organize the event, The Beverly Yacht Club (BYC) of Marion, The Blue Water Sailing Club (BWSC) of Boston, and The Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club (RHADC) of Bermuda. The entry fee for competitors sits between $1,700 and $3,000 depending on size of yacht and time of entry.
The Marion to Bermuda Race is nearing its 50th anniversary, with the first being held in 1977. The race is notorious for its difficulty and unpredictability, with weather and conditions on the Atlantic frequently turning fast. This has often led to dismastings and DNFs. The race is typically held on the off year of the biannual Newport to Bermuda Race, itself beginning in 1906 and having completed its 53rd race last year.
Skippers from the Tri-Town in this year’s bout include R. Davis Webb of Marion on the Ardent, Ronald Wisner of Marion on the Hotspur II, Mark Lindquist of Marion on the Raptor, and Michael Malone of Marion on the Rossaveal.
Following the 645 nautical mile race, an award ceremony/gala is scheduled for Saturday, June 28 at The Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club’s Boat House in Hamilton.
By Sam Bishop