What’s New in 2024?

Posted Jan 08, 2024

As we look forward to warmer temperatures and this year’s race, we plan to begin sharing a series of updates regarding changes to the competition we think you’d like to hear about. If you are new to the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac, and interested in learning more about how to enter the race, please visit our new FAQ page. 

Several recent updates to the 2024 race will include:

• While the race will continue to require AIS receivers on all vessels, AIS transmitters will not be required but strongly recommended.

• Dynema will now be allowed to close gaps in stern life lines if required.

• Minimum crew numbers for monohulls have been reduced from 5 to 4 persons.

• For double handed crews, online Safety at Sea certification will now satisfy race safety requirements. We still strongly recommend certification through in-person courses.

• Passage making requirements for multihulls and double handed entries have been updated to be more realistically achievable for qualified crews.

Please stay tuned as we make further announcements in the coming weeks. As a reminder, official race changes will be made when the new NOR and CMSR documents are available on February 1, 2024 when registration opens at noon (12:00pm). We recommend marking this date on your calendar and keeping in mind that dockage at Mackinac Island is assigned based on entry order.