We want to make your Race to Mackinac experience as smooth as possible, ensuring you can focus on what matters most: competing in this iconic bucket-list race! Below, you'll find essential information on full-service marinas, yacht services, travel and transportation options, accommodations, crew finders and much more to help teams prepare.
This page will be continuously updated as resources become available. We’re committed to providing everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable race experience!
Return From Mac Bus
The Chicago Yacht Club is pleased to partner with Windy City Transportation to offer convenient motor coach service for race participants traveling from Mackinaw City back to Chicago following the race.
Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride aboard our coaches as you relax and unwind after your journey to Mackinac Island.
Bus Back Details
All coaches will return only to the Chicago Yacht Club’s Monroe Station. There will be no service to Belmont Station.
Coaches will make one scheduled stop for lunch and a restroom break. No additional stops will be accommodated.
Departure Times on Wednesday, July 23
Four coaches will depart the Star Line dock in Mackinaw City at 10:00 a.m. ET
One additional coach will depart from the same location at 2:00 p.m. ET
The CYC Front Desk will record your preferred departure time and reconfirm your reservation prior to the race.
CYC Member Pricing
$200 per person through Monday, June 30
$250 Tuesday, July 1 - Wednesday, July 23
•No Refunds
Non-Member Pricing
$225 per person through Monday, June 30
$275 Tuesday, July 1 - Wednesday, July 23
*No Refunds
Shore Bag Service
As a special benefit of membership, Chicago Yacht Club will provide complimentary transport of one airline carry-on size shore bag (max 25 lbs.) per member from Monroe Station to Mackinac Island. Members may check one additional bag for a fee of $30.
Non-members may check one bag for a fee of $40.
All individuals using the Shore Bag Service must be registered race participants. Service is non-transferable and non-refundable.
Bag Drop-Off Details
Location: Chicago Yacht Club – Monroe Station Front Desk
Date: Friday, July 18
Time: During regular club hours
When you drop off your bag(s), our front desk will tag them for delivery to your designated Mackinac Island hotel. Your bag(s) will be waiting for you upon arrival.
CYC Member Pricing
First bag: Free | Second bag: $30
Non-Member Pricing
One bag: $40
Non-Members Click Here to Reserve
Specifications:
Maximum of two bags per member
Maximum of one bag per non-member
Bags must be carry-on size and 25 lbs. or less
No sails or non-luggage items permitted
Discounted Race Accommodations
Mackinac Island
MISSION POINT (Waitlist Only)
Main Lodge: $526+
Straits Lodge: $476+
Click Here to Reserve
GRAND HOTEL
Standard Room: $583+
Deluxe Room: $816+
Click Here to Reserve
Chicago
21C MUSEUM HOTEL
Deluxe King: $209+
Click Here to Reserve
HYATT REGENCY
Standard Room: $239+
Deluxe Room: $274+
Click Here to Reserve
Official Logistics Partner
We are proud to name Larsen Marine as official logistics partner of the 2025 Race to Mackinac. Larsen Marine can accommodate even the largest racing sailboats in their deep draft harbor and are one of the biggest full-service marinas on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Larsen Marine is also home to some of the most highly accredited, manufacturer-certified marine technicians in the industry.
“We are honored to be the official logistics partner of this historic race,” said Josh Erickson, general manager of Larsen Marine. “We are fully equipped to provide race support, and we’re excited for the opportunity to serve this incredible community.”
We recommend that you utilize Larsen Marine and consider them if you require any of the following services:
Vessel Offloading
Keel Installation
Mast Stepping
Rigging Services
Bottom Wash
Vessel Launch
New & Pre-owned Boat Sales
Brokerage Services
In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Chicago Yacht Club, Larsen Marine is generously offering special discounts on services, parts, and supplies to all participants of the race. We highly recommend that you schedule ahead!
To inquire about race prep services, parts, or supplies, please email igates@larsenmarine.com or call 847-336-5456, extension 819.
If you’re looking to find a boat for the 2025 Race to Mackinac, contact Larsen Yacht Sales at pfroman@larsenyachtsales.com or 847-336-5456, extension 815.
Crew Finder
Are you interested in finding a boat to crew on for the Race to Mackinac? We’ve partnered with RailMeets to provide skippers and crew with an opportunity to connect.