There are events in Miami that draw crowds, and then there are events that draw legends. The Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta is firmly in the second category. Returning for its 99th edition from March 1 through March 7, 2026, this regatta brings together Olympic champions, world-class sailors and passionate weekend warriors on the sparkling waters of Biscayne Bay. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious sailing events in the Western Hemisphere, and Miami's perfect March weather makes it unforgettable both on and off the water.
But here is what most people do not realize. You do not have to be a competitive sailor to experience it. One of the best ways to take in the action is from the deck of a private yacht, anchored near the race course with a cold drink in hand and the Miami skyline glowing behind you. Rushing Rentals offers the ultimate spectator experience with the Pershing 65', the Saxdor 320 GTO and the Axopar Brabus 37', complete with luxury, speed and front-row views of world-class racing.
The Bacardi Cup is one of the most storied regattas in international sailing. First held in 1927, the event was originally sponsored by the Bacardi family and has been a fixture of the competitive sailing calendar ever since. The regatta takes place annually on Biscayne Bay, hosted by the Coral Reef Yacht Club and the Biscayne Bay Yacht Club in Coconut Grove.
The 2026 edition marks the 99th running of the Bacardi Cup for the Star Class, a two-person keelboat that has been an Olympic class for decades. Alongside the Star fleet, the 2026 regatta features racing in the J/70, Melges 24, Viper 640 and VX One classes, creating a full week of competitive action across multiple race courses.
Competitors travel from around the world to participate. Past champions include Olympic gold medalists and America's Cup veterans, but the field also welcomes amateur sailors. The regatta's tagline, "Come Sail With Us," captures the spirit of an event that balances elite competition with camaraderie.
Watching a sailing regatta from shore has its charms, but watching from the water is an entirely different experience. From a yacht, you are not a distant spectator. You see the boats heel under wind pressure, hear the sails snap during tacks and feel the energy of a tight mark rounding up close.
Biscayne Bay's crystal-clear waters and wide-open race courses make it ideal for spectator yachts. The race committee sets designated spectator areas where private vessels can anchor safely. From these vantage points, you get unobstructed views of the starts, the downwind legs and the finishes, all while floating on one of the most beautiful bays in Florida.
Beyond the racing, a yacht charter gives you freedom to explore the broader bay. Between races, cruise to the sandbar near Nixon Beach, anchor near Stiltsville for photos, or head south toward Boca Chita Key. The Bacardi Cup runs from late morning through mid-afternoon, leaving plenty of time for a sunset cruise after the last race.
Rushing Rentals offers three distinct yachts, each suited to a different style of Bacardi Cup experience.
The Pershing 65' is the flagship of the fleet, built for days like the Bacardi Cup. With 65 feet of Italian-designed luxury, this yacht offers expansive deck space, a flybridge with panoramic views, a fully appointed salon and overnight accommodations. Perfect for groups of up to twelve guests who want to watch the regatta in high style with catering and cocktails.
For the Bacardi Cup, the Pershing provides the best combination of comfort and visibility. Anchor near the race course, set up on the flybridge with binoculars and enjoy a full day of racing without missing a moment. When racing wraps, cruise toward the Miami skyline for golden-hour photos.
At 32 feet, the Saxdor 320 GTO is nimble enough to reposition quickly between race courses and stylish enough to hold its own among the yacht spectators. Ideal for groups of up to eight who want a more active viewing experience. The Saxdor's speed lets you follow the fleet from start to finish, moving from the upwind mark to the downwind gate alongside the leaders.
The Axopar Brabus 37' brings performance-boat energy to the spectator fleet. With twin outboards, aggressive styling and a sport-oriented cockpit, this 37-footer handles groups of up to ten guests. Catch a few races up close, blast across to the sandbar for swimming, return for afternoon racing and finish with a high-speed sunset run along the coast.
A well-planned charter day maximizes both racing and leisure.
Depart from the marina around 9:00 AM. Cruise south toward the race course, passing Key Biscayne and the Rickenbacker Causeway. Arrive at the spectator area before the first warning signal at 10:55 AM (multi-class days) or 11:55 AM (Star Class days).
Watch the action unfold from your deck. Star Class boats are particularly beautiful under sail, with classic lines and oversized sails catching the afternoon breeze. Between races, enjoy lunch and drinks with your group. The crew can reposition to follow different race courses or move closer to mark roundings.
As afternoon races conclude, explore Biscayne Bay. Cruise to the sandbar for a swim, visit Stiltsville's iconic houses on stilts or head toward the yacht clubs to watch sailors return. The bay is calm in late afternoon and the light is perfect for photography.
Wrap up with a sunset cruise back toward the marina. The view of the Miami skyline at dusk, with Brickell's towers reflecting orange and pink, is one of the most photographed sights in South Florida.
The Bacardi Cup is not just about the racing. The week is filled with social events, parties and gatherings at the yacht clubs, restaurants in Coconut Grove and across the broader Miami scene. Getting between these events in style calls for a luxury car.
Rushing Rentals offers the unique advantage of combining yacht charters and exotic car rentals under one booking. Charter the Pershing 65' for a day of racing, then drive a Rolls-Royce Cullinan to the evening cocktail party. Or spend the morning on the Axopar Brabus 37' and cruise to dinner in a Lamborghini Urus Performante.
One team coordinates your entire week, from yacht timing to car delivery to chauffeur service. No juggling multiple vendors.
The regatta's social calendar is almost as legendary as the racing itself. The Opening Cocktail on March 1 at the Coral Reef Yacht Club sets the tone. Daily post-racing happy hours keep the energy going. The Mid-Week Party on March 4 at Shake-a-Leg Miami is a standout event with food, music and the international sailing community.
Coconut Grove itself is one of Miami's most charming neighborhoods, with tree-lined streets, waterfront restaurants and a village-like atmosphere. Dinner at Lulu in the Grove, Glass and Vine in Peacock Park or the Mayfair Hotel rooftop pairs perfectly with a day on the water.
The Bacardi Cup puts Biscayne Bay in the spotlight, but the bay deserves attention year-round. During your charter, explore beyond the race course. Key Biscayne's beaches are visible from the bay. The Stiltsville Historic District, colorful houses perched on stilts in the shallow waters south of Cape Florida, is a must-see landmark. The sandbar near the Bear Cut Bridge is a popular gathering spot for boaters.
Rushing Rentals' blog covers many of these destinations in detail. Check out posts on the best spots near Miami for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding by yacht, and sunset cruises in Miami for more ideas.
When is the Bacardi Cup Regatta 2026?
The 99th Bacardi Cup Invitational Regatta runs March 1 through March 7, 2026, on Biscayne Bay. Racing begins with the Star Class on March 2, and multi-class racing runs from March 5 through 7.
Can I watch the Bacardi Cup from a private yacht?
Yes. Spectator yachts are welcome on Biscayne Bay during the regatta in designated spectator areas. A Rushing Rentals charter provides the ideal platform for watching the races up close.
Which Rushing Rentals yacht is best for watching the regatta?
The Pershing 65' offers the most comfortable all-day experience. The Saxdor 320 GTO is ideal for getting closer to the action. The Axopar Brabus 37' combines spectating with high-speed bay exploration.
How many guests can I bring on a Bacardi Cup yacht charter?
The Pershing 65' accommodates up to twelve guests, the Axopar Brabus 37' up to ten and the Saxdor 320 GTO up to eight. All charters include a professional captain and crew.
Do I need sailing experience to charter a yacht during the regatta?
Not at all. All Rushing Rentals yachts come with a professional captain and crew who handle navigation, anchoring and positioning.
Can I combine a yacht charter with a luxury car rental for Bacardi Cup week?
Absolutely. Rushing Rentals offers combined packages with a single coordinator managing both bookings for seamless luxury on and off the water.
What is the best time to charter during the Bacardi Cup?
March 5, 6 or 7 for the most exciting multi-class racing. March 2 through 4 for a more intimate Star-only experience.
Are food and beverages included on the yacht charter?
Catering options vary by vessel and can be customized. Contact Rushing Rentals to arrange onboard food and beverage service.
The 99th Bacardi Cup is a once-a-year opportunity to witness world-class sailing on one of the most beautiful bays in America. There is no better way to experience it than from the deck of a luxury yacht, surrounded by friends, with the Miami skyline as your backdrop.
Whether you choose the commanding Pershing 65', the agile Saxdor 320 GTO or the high-performance Axopar Brabus 37', you will have front-row access to the racing and a stunning day on the water.
The regatta runs March 1 through 7, and yacht availability during event weeks books quickly. Visit rushingrentals.co or call our team to reserve your Bacardi Cup charter today. The bay is calling.
