The Great Chesapeake Bay Schooner Race

Our Vision: A healthy Chesapeake Bay where vibrant maritime traditions and skills are preserved and passed on to future generations. Our Mission: Fostering stewardship and building community through traditional vessel racing and education on the Chesapeake Bay. 

The Virtual Race Rundraiser

August 12-15, 2025
The Bay Race

October 13-19, 2026
Fulfilling Our Mission

through the Bay Race, education and grant programs

GCBSR Virtual Race Fundraiser August 12-15, 2026

The Virtual Race is a totally online event. Instead of competing under sail, schooner teams race to raise money for area non-profits.

Read more about the raceCLICK HERE
Register your vesselCLICK HERE
Preview participating vesselsCLICK HERE
Donate to your favorite vessel 8/12-15CLICK HERE



Congratulations to our 2026 GCBSR Educational Grant Recipients

The GCBSR works year-round to support Chesapeake Bay education efforts with a special eye toward the next generation.


GCBSR Sea Stories

Recorded webinars with captains, boat builders, sailors and educators.

Solo Around the World with Ina Pinkney and Lorie Conway
Compass Adjustment with Seamus Duffy
Mapping the Great Lakes After the War of 1812 with Gordon Laco
To Fix A National Character with Abigail Mullen

2026 Bay Race
October 13-18

The Schooner Race is a friendly competition among majestic schooners and traditional vessels. The public is invited to watch the parade of sail in Baltimore, follow the participants online and visit the boats dockside in Norfolk. Read more about the Bay Race


The Pinnacle of Our Sailing Season

“We come back each year for the camaraderie and the competition. It’s fun to stretch Woodwind’s legs and to sail overnight. The event always is the pinnacle of our sailing season.”

Jen Kaye
Schooner Woodwind Cruises

VIDEOS

GCBSR YouTube Channel

MORE VIDEOS