The Bayview Mackinac Race

The Bayview Mackinac Race, organized by the Bayview Yacht Club, is celebrated as the oldest, consecutively run freshwater yacht race in the world. It encapsulates the best of Michigan, from stunning natural beauty to the challenges and thrills of sailing. The race is known for its varied conditions, ranging from serene blue skies to challenging summer storms, and it finishes at the picturesque Mackinac Island.

For the 100th running of the race, scheduled for July 20, 2024, competitors will navigate the 1925 Original Course. This historic route covers 204 nautical miles, starting in Southern Lake Huron and taking sailors along the Michigan shoreline, past Bois Blanc Island, and finishing between Round Island and Mackinac Island. The course’s design and the race’s legacy add a unique historical dimension, making it a prestigious and unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.

Bray’s Charter Service, a well-established company with over 35 years of experience, offers top-quality cruises, excursions, and fishing trips on Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and the Detroit River. While Bray’s Charter Service is not directly involved in the yacht race, it provides an excellent opportunity to experience the event from a unique perspective. Bray’s offers a range of cruising options, from enjoying local events like the Freedom Festival Fireworks to serene moonlight cruises. These cruises offer a chance to travel along the shorelines, experience nature, and possibly view the race in a relaxed and comfortable setting