Offshore Racing: SLY’s Epic 2023 Annapolis to Newport Adventure

Join the crew of SLY as they take on the 2023 Annapolis to Newport Race, one of the most challenging offshore yacht races on the East Coast! In this epic adventure, SLY, a high-performance Xp44 by X Yachts, battles rough seas and gusting winds up to 35 knots, forcing many boats to abandon the race. Then, an unexpected calm tested our endurance as we pushed through the 475-mile course.

Our journey started with light winds but quickly escalated into very rough conditions. This offshore adventure was not only a test of endurance but also showcased the teamwork required for extreme sailing through the Atlantic Ocean's toughest conditions. From navigating Chesapeake Bay to rounding Block Island, this race was a grueling challenge—but SLY prevailed. Along the way, we were visited by dolphins and a fast-approaching squall before finally crossing the finish line at Newport.

Watch as our crew comes together through the highs and lows of offshore sailing, showing resilience in the face of adversity. Don’t miss the behind-the-scenes moments that made this race unforgettable and the stunning drone footage by @Tim Mangus!
Watch the full video here:    • Sly in the Annapolis to Newport Race;...  

This 475-mile offshore adventure is not only a test of endurance but also showcases the teamwork required for extreme sailing through the Atlantic Ocean's toughest conditions

Race Start: Saturday, June 3rd, 2023
Course: A total of 475 miles, starting in Annapolis, MD heading
South, down the Chesapeake Bay, then out to Chesapeake Light, then Northeast, around Block Island to Newport, RI
Weather: Winds predicted up to 40 knots, massive seas, and a cold front descending from the north.

For an entire week leading up to the race, our crew was glued to the weather forecasts, preparing for what was shaping up to be a grueling test of endurance and seamanship. With safety drills behind us and the boat finely tuned, we set off in light winds, only to face increasing pressure as we raced down the Bay.

As the wind picked up, gusting to 35 knots, we watched half the fleet drop out. But SLY was built to handle it. Thanks to meticulous preparation and our crew’s determination, we stayed the course. One crew member had a brief battle with seasickness, but thanks to Dr. Banks, they were back on deck, ready to tackle the next watch. The rest of the journey was free of illness, though a few of us had some interesting Scoplomine-induced hallucinations!

Our biggest challenge and toughest part of the race came when the wind died completely late Sunday night into Monday morning. Becalmed and watching boats on either side slowly sail away, we knew our chances for a top finish were slipping. But instead of frustration, the crew rallied, turning the situation into an opportunity to work together, bond and share a few laughs.

We enjoyed the dolphins that swam alongside us as we sailed through their neighborhoods. It was as if they came to say "hi" and welcomed the distraction as they played in the boat's wake. It is always amazing to watch them dart through the water, often in pairs, quickly turn in unison, and make incredible leaps out of the water.

In the early hours of the morning, with a fresh breeze, we made our final push into Newport, crossing the finish line early on Tuesday morning at 12:22 am. Exhausted but elated, the pizza was delivered and we spent the night cleaning up the boat, telling stories, and sharing the camaraderie that had defined our journey. That energy and those smiles were envied by the other crews.

This race was a true test of skill, patience, and teamwork. Despite the tough conditions and moments of uncertainty, the crew of SLY finished strong, with heads held high and smiles all around. The 2023 Annapolis to Newport Race was everything we expected and more—a testament to the resilience and spirit of the awesome crew.

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro - One Shot, One Opportunity, The Decision
01:30 - Two Weeks to go - Ocean Race Set-up - Safety Checklist
03:05 - The Crew - Introductions
04:27 - Saturday Morning - Pre-Race Prep
05:20 - Crew Discussion - Weather Briefing
06:59 - The Start
08:24 - Sailing Down the Bay
09:31 - The Heavy Weather & Big Seas- Saturday Night & Sunday
12:19 - Becalmed
13:25 - Monday Morning - The Breeze Fills In - Finally!
15:54 - Tuesday Morning
16:43 - Dolphins!
19:09 - Spinnaker Set & Takedown
19:53 - Squall
20:34 - The Approach to Newport
21:56 - Post Race Celebration
22:56 - Credits

#AnnapolisToNewport #OffshoreSailing #YachtRacing #Xp44 #XYachts #SailingAdventure #OceanRacing #RoughSeas #SailingTeamwork #DroneFootage