Nautical Extravaganza

February 2010 – Riviera Nayarit is hosting a series of nautical events in March that are being hailed as a “Nautical Extravaganza.” Part of the action is the new Marina Riviera Nayarit in La Cruz de Huanacaxtle. It is the biggest marina in Mexico with 341 slips that can accommodate yachts up to 400 feet in length. The marina, along with Riviera Nayarit’s pristine coastline and beaches, is expected to propel Riviera Nayarit into a renowned nautical destination.

The nautical events include the internationally renowned Regatta Copa Mexico, which will showcase the destination’s water-friendly appeal; from boat races, to dry land beach competitions, to the Latin America boat show, to the final event, the Regatta Bahia de Banderas.

Highlights of the Extravaganza include:

Regatta Copa Mexico, February 27 – March 13: The Regatta Copa Mexico is a joint effort between the Mexican Government and the Mexican Sailing Associations. It is a great international perpetual event, with multi-classes that takes place every two years, throughout the coasts and ports of Mexico. This year, the events will take place in Banderas Bay.

MEXORC Oceanic Race, February 27 – March 6: In conjunction with the Copa Mexico, the MEXORC Oceanic Race will involve seven days of racing with a lay day period including the Presidents Cup distance race, Mariettas Islands distance race, and windward-leeward races.

J24 Regatta: Featuring the one-design keelboat; ideal for family racing competitions.

Latin America Boat Show, March 11 – 15: The second Latin America Boat Show held in Mexico will be at the Marina Riviera Nayarit at La Cruz.

Regatta Bahia de Banderas, March 16 – 20: Held in Nuevo Vallarta and hosted by the Marina Riviera Nayarit, this ibi-annual event is designed to increase tourism and develop the Sailing Culture in Mexico. The five-day event is intended for competitive coastal and offshore cruising.

Desafio 2012 (The Challenge): Tania Elias Calles will make the journey from Los Cabos to Riviera Nayarit (approximately 500 miles) without touching ground or with assistance. Beginning on February 27th, and after her 48 hours, she will be welcomed at Bahia de Banderas.

Beach Volleyball championships, March 3-7: Round robin games with national teams from Brazil, Spain, the United States and Mexico.