Planning

Pac Cup committee chairs discuss ratings, measurement, requirements, shipment, and more

Pac Cup committee chairs discuss ratings, measurement, requirements, shipment, and more

You can stay green on the blue water. Some minor choices can have a major impact

2024 Pac Cup Preparation Timeline - Mary Lovely

Hang this where you will see it - like on your refrigerator or over the nav station!

There are several different things that you can focus on when you seek to optimize a boat to participate in a long distance ocean race: reducing boat weight, making sure rig tune and boat trim is maximized, sail and hardware optimization, increasing crew efficiency, maximizing safety, etc. Where you place the emphasis will depend on your personal preferences – all will lead to a quicker race.

What's it cost?

It depends on your boat, your previous state of preparation, and your goals.

Most folks run from a low of $20,000 to $60,000 or, of course "sky's the limit"

See the attached spreadsheet for some ideas.

Many out-of-area racers have asked where they can keep their boats before the race.  As it turns out, there are many options.  What's best for you will depend on a number of factors, including length of stay, length of boat, and where, generally you'll want to stay.  The discussion below is an expansion of materials provided by Sylvia Seaberg.  The list is not exhaustive, and there are options beyond the immediate areas listed, but this may get you started.

Spares and Repairs Underway

If “it” quits working and you don’t have a spare or the ability, materials and tools to repair “it,” you need to be able to live without “it” for the balance of the voyage.

Without question the best approach is to make absolutely certain that all systems are in excellent condition before you leave the dock.  This discussion is about Plan B, how to cope when one of your systems fails to function.

Introduction

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: Getting ready to race

Now that you’ve decided to do the Pacific Cup, your safety, your enjoyment, and your competitive performance will depend more on your preparation than on your vessel or your crew.  For you, the race has already started; you’ll spend more time in preparation than you will sailing.  A well prepared boat and crew is safe, fun and fast; good goals for any off-shore passage.