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SailGP Charter NYC 2026

Private Race Viewing on the Water

a boat on a body of water

Experience Formula 1 on Water from Your Own Private Sailboat

$1,400 event for up to 6 passengers
3.5 hours | flexible itineraries
catering menu | luxury amenities

The Mubadala New York Sail Grand Prix returns to New York Harbor on May 30-31, 2026, and your SailGP charter NYC puts you at the heart of the action. While shore spectators watch from a distance and crowded ferries offer limited views, you’ll witness championship racing from your own private 40-foot sailboat—positioned near the course where elite athletes from 12 nations compete at speeds exceeding 60 mph.

This isn’t just spectating. Your SailGP charter NYC delivers front-row access to the world’s most exciting sailing event, with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop and zero crowds between you and the racing.


2026 SailGP NYC Event Schedule

Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, 2026

Departure: 2:30 PM from Chelsea Piers

Racing: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Return: 6:00 PM to Chelsea Piers

Your 3.5-hour SailGP charter includes departure before racing begins, optimal positioning during the competition, and a relaxed return after the final race.


a small boat in a body of water with a city in the background

Why Choose a Private SailGP Charter NYC

Unmatched Proximity to Championship Racing

Shore spectators are hundreds of yards from the action. Crowded ferry boats pack in passengers with obstructed views and fixed positions. Your private SailGP charter NYC delivers something completely different: intimate access for just 6 guests, dynamic positioning throughout the races, and unobstructed views of the world’s fastest sailing boats, the Statue of Liberty, and the Manhattan skyline—all at the same time.

What You’ll Witness:

  • 50-foot F50 foiling catamarans flying above the water at 55+ knots
  • Teams representing USA, New Zealand, Australia, Great Britain, Spain, Denmark, and Switzerland
  • Dramatic tacks, jibes, and mark roundings mere yards from your sailboat
  • Championship-level competition where milliseconds determine victory
  • Photo-finish crossings with the Manhattan skyline behind racing boats

The SailGP race course occupies a contained area near the Statue of Liberty, meaning you see the entire competition unfold simultaneously—no disappearing boats, no waiting, just continuous action.

Dynamic Viewing Position Throughout Races

Unlike shore-based spectators locked into fixed grandstands, your SailGP charter NYC adapts throughout the racing. Your USCG-licensed captain positions your sailboat for optimal viewing as the competition evolves:

Strategic Positioning:

  • Start Line: Watch boats accelerate from stationary to 50+ knots in seconds
  • Upwind Legs: See teams battle for position while controlling massive power
  • Mark Roundings: Experience the most dramatic maneuvers as boats execute high-speed turns
  • Downwind Legs: Watch F50s reach maximum speeds with Manhattan as backdrop
  • Finish Line: Witness photo-finish crossings from the best angle on the water

The Manhattan Skyline as Your Racing Backdrop

SailGP NYC transforms New York Harbor into a world-class sporting venue. As elite athletes push multimillion-dollar boats to their limits, the downtown Manhattan skyline—One World Trade Center, Battery Park, the Financial District—creates a cinematic setting found nowhere else in the SailGP season. Your private sailboat charter positions you to capture this unique perspective: championship sailing against one of the world’s most recognizable skylines.

What Makes SailGP Different

High-Stakes Championship Racing

This isn’t recreational sailing or a boat show. SailGP represents the pinnacle of sailing technology and athleticism—Formula 1 racing adapted for water. Teams spend millions developing strategies and training athletes. Every race contributes to season-long championship standings with significant prize money at stake.

F50 Catamarans:

  • Cost: $2+ million per boat
  • Speed: 60+ mph maximum
  • Technology: Hydrofoils lift hulls completely out of water
  • Crew: 5 elite athletes per boat
  • Design: Identical boats ensure competition based on skill, not equipment

a large body of water with a city in the background

Your Private SailGP Charter Experience

Comfort & Amenities During Racing

This Beneteau sailboat provides comfortable viewing conditions throughout your 3.5-hour charter.

Outdoor Viewing:

  • Spacious cockpit with cushioned seating for 6
  • Full shade coverage (essential for the afternoon sun)
  • Elevated sun pad for photography and optimal sight lines
  • 360-degree unobstructed views

Indoor Comfort:

  • Cabin lounge with table seating
  • Private bathroom (head)
  • Kitchenette (galley) for food and beverage service
  • Comfortable retreat if you need a break from the elements

Included:

  • USCG-licensed captain with race-viewing expertise
  • All fuel, insurance, and docking fees
  • Bluetooth sound system for your soundtrack
  • Bottled water and ice

Food, Drinks & Race-Day Atmosphere

Your SailGP charter isn’t just about watching races—it’s a celebration of world-class sailing. Create your ideal race-day atmosphere:

  • Catering Packages: all-inclusive menu, party platters and trays, cakes, champagne, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages
  • BYOB option ($100 fee)

a small boat in a body of water with a city in the background

Bring Your Sailing Enthusiasts

SailGP viewing becomes even more exciting when shared with people who appreciate elite-level sailing. Your private charter accommodates up to 6 guests—ideal for:

Sailing Enthusiasts: Discuss tactics, marvel at boat handling, and witness the highest level of sailing competition together

Corporate Entertainment: Impress clients or reward team members with exclusive access to championship racing

Family Experience: Introduce young sailors to world-class competition in a comfortable, private setting

Friend Groups: Share an unforgettable sporting experience without fighting crowds or compromising on comfort

Weather & Race-Day Decisions

SailGP officials will make the final race decisions based on wind conditions and safety. For your reservation protection, the premium weather policy is included with your booking. If SailGP postpones racing, you have the option to reschedule to an alternative race date or receive a full refund. Guaranteed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close do we get to the racing boats? Spectator boats maintain safe distance from the competition zone (approximately 50-100 yards) while still providing far closer views than shore-based spectators. You’ll witness every maneuver in detail.

Can we move during the races? Your captain adjusts position between races and during longer breaks. During active racing, boats maintain position in compliance with US Coast Guard safety requirements.

What if I don’t know much about sailing? Perfect! Your captain provides context and commentary throughout the event, explaining tactics, pointing out key moments, and helping you appreciate the athleticism and technology on display. No sailing knowledge required.

Is this appropriate for children? Absolutely. The speed and spectacle of SailGP captivates young viewers. Our private setting means families can watch comfortably without worrying about other spectators. Life jackets are provided in all sizes (required for children under 12 per NY State law).

How is this different from spectator ferries? Spectator ferries charge $275 per person, pack passengers aboard like sardines, offer fixed viewing positions, and provide minimal amenities. Your private SailGP charter NYC offers dynamic positioning, exclusivity, comfortable amenities, and personalized service.

What’s included in the charter price? Everything except food, beverages, and gratuity.

Ready to Book Your SailGP NYC Charter 2026? This is more than watching a sailing race—it’s being part of the action in New York Harbor’s most exclusive viewing location. You and your guests will witness championship sailing from the ultimate vantage point: your own private sailboat.