Corsair 880 Sport joins the 2023 Race to Alaska! Wooohoo!

Race to Alaska Explained

Stage 1 Race start: June 5, 2023, 5:00 AM, Port Townsend, Washington
Stage 2 Race start: June 8, 2023, High Noon, Victoria, BC
Application deadline: Tax Day baby! April 15th

The inside passage to Alaska has been paddled by native canoes since time immemorial, sailing craft for centuries, and after someone found gold in the Klondike the route was jammed with steamboats full of prospectors elbowing each other out of the way for the promise of fortune.

It’s in the spirit of tradition, exploration, and the lawless self-reliance of the gold rush that Race to Alaska was born. R2AK is the first of its kind and North America’s longest human and wind powered race, and currently the largest cash prize for a race of its kind.

This isn’t for everyone

It’s like the Iditarod, on a boat, with a chance of drowning, being run down by a freighter, or eaten by a grizzly bear. There are squalls, killer whales, tidal currents that run upwards of 20 miles an hour, and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.

R2AK is based on the hardest kind of simplicity

You, a boat, a starting gun. $10,000 if you finish first, a set of steak knives if you’re second. Cathartic elation if you can simply complete the course. R2AK is a self-supported race with no supply drops and no safety net. Any boat without an engine can enter.

In 2022, 41 teams were accepted and 19 finished.

Learn more about Race to Alaska >>

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Team Tres Equis getting ready to roll in this years Race to Alaska.

Team members: Chad Wilson, Ken Wolfe, Bill Hardesty
Hometown: Dickinson, TX, USA
Race vessel: Corsair 880 Sport
LOA: 29′
Human propulsion: Flywheel

An insurance lawyer, a Rolex Yachtsman of the Year, and someone who is probably a dentist walk into the Race to Alaska… 

Honestly, we don’t know what happens next. We stopped listening to our own joke a while ago. There’s some punchline there somewhere, but given the set up we’re pretty sure that at least one of them is going to be named Chad. 

Stay with us: theoretically, if an insurance lawyer does a 750-mile adventure race from Port Townsend to Ketchikan, should the race host or his insurance company be concerned? 

Again, hypothetical here, if you had the 2011 Rolex Yachtsman of the Year on your boat, would you have them captain the boat, or would you choose the safety first insurance lawyer to be the captain? 

What if—just saying—the insurance lawyer, the Yachtsman of the Year, and some other guy had all served in the merchant marine as deck and engine officers, sailed ships around the world, and put in time in the U.S. Naval Reserve as officers assigned to the logistics fleet?  

And—play along with us here—they bought a brand new boat and packed it full of their trophies, medallions, and “You Qualified for the Olympics!” certificates and maybe did Race to Alaska an adventure race that may or may not be filled with bears?

We’re about to find out.

We sat down with Chad T. Wilson, head legal counsel and captain of Team Tres Equis over a tureen of creamed corn and two oversized spoons to talk about accidental death and dismemberment, “world championships,” and whether or not Bill’s decision to R2AK is more worthy of the “Casio Yachtsman of the Year” than what he’s currently sporting.

What are the necessary components of a good adventure?

Unfamiliar territory, unplugged, heightened level of risk, challenging, coffee.

What’s a lesson you learned the hard way?

Passports don’t come loaded with visas.

What’s your favorite kind of bracket?

Box bracket.

What’s your claim to fame?

3 talented kids who fall in the “good people” category; 3-time Olympic Team Trials qualifier in sailing.

It’s drizzling, freezing cold, and you’ve missed the tide. The cabin is leaky and the stove won’t light. How do you keep the good vibes going?

Uplifting music, bad music, recorded sounds of whales, repetitive counting.

Forget the 10k or the steak knives. What does success look like for you and your team?

3 crew start, 3 crew FINISH and get home safely; no insurance claims [R2AK HQ: Classic lawyer talk].

Blank space, baby. Share some things:

I am looking forward to R2AK with two guys I haven’t sailed with since Kings Point in 1997.  I am proud that Bill said yes to R2AK and Ken’s wife said yes to R2AK for Ken.

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SO what’s happening before the race? SEVENTY48

Just ask yourself, “Self, what could I do to test my mettle the weekend before the R2AK?” If you answered, “A burly, pre-race to R2AK—where the greatest competition for yourself is yourself. A race super accessible to compete in. A race that is tough but still lets me update Instagram,” we’d say, “Hell yeah. You nailed it.”

Check out SEVENTY48 >>

Earth is now our only shareholder.

Yvon Chouinard is an American rock climber, environmentalist, philanthropist and outdoor industry businessman. His company, Patagonia, is known for its commitment to protecting the environment. Chouinard is also a surfer, kayaker, and falconer and is particularly fond of tenkara fly-fishing.

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Patagonia founder Yvon gives away the company to fight climate change. There is always a third alternative. Right?

If we have any hope of a thriving planet—much less a business—it is going to take all of us doing what we can with the resources we have. This is what we can do.

By Yvon Chouinard

I never wanted to be a businessman. I started as a craftsman, making climbing gear for my friends and myself, then got into apparel. As we began to witness the extent of global warming and ecological destruction, and our own contribution to it, Patagonia committed to using our company to change the way business was done. If we could do the right thing while making enough to pay the bills, we could influence customers and other businesses, and maybe change the system along the way.

We started with our products, using materials that caused less harm to the environment. We gave away 1% of sales each year. We became a certified B Corp and a California benefit corporation, writing our values into our corporate charter so they would be preserved. More recently, in 2018, we changed the company’s purpose to: We’re in business to save our home planet.

While we’re doing our best to address the environmental crisis, it’s not enough. We needed to find a way to put more money into fighting the crisis while keeping the company’s values intact.

“Truth be told, there were no good options available. So, we created our own.”

One option was to sell Patagonia and donate all the money. But we couldn’t be sure a new owner would maintain our values or keep our team of people around the world employed.

Another path was to take the company public. What a disaster that would have been. Even public companies with good intentions are under too much pressure to create short-term gain at the expense of long-term vitality and responsibility.

Truth be told, there were no good options available. So, we created our own.

Instead of “going public,” you could say we’re “going purpose.” Instead of extracting value from nature and transforming it into wealth for investors, we’ll use the wealth Patagonia creates to protect the source of all wealth.

Here’s how it works: 100% of the company’s voting stock transfers to the Patagonia Purpose Trust, created to protect the company’s values; and 100% of the nonvoting stock had been given to the Holdfast Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting the environmental crisis and defending nature. The funding will come from Patagonia: Each year, the money we make after reinvesting in the business will be distributed as a dividend to help fight the crisis.

Connected by Water >>

2021 Sarasota Sailing Squadron

2021 SARASOTA SAILING SQUADRON

Thank you Steve from The Finish Line, for getting this story out to all!

Thanks to the Sarasota Sailing Squadron for accepting the challenge of hosting a Regatta in spite of Covid. The hurdles to host a successful regatta are many and the Squadron met them with aplomb. Part swap meet, sailing clinic, jamboree, and camp cooking tournament, the SBMR never fails to deliver when it comes to mild weather, warm clear water, easy launch/docking, and shore side things to see and do.  While the social events were muted compared to years past (to the relief of barnyard animals and first responders everywhere.  But thanks for keeping the tazers charged anyway, Craig), the racing was just as intense, the venue just as scenic, and the sailors just as salty.

20 Corsair trimarans traveled from near and far to be part of this event. As promised, the weather machine was set on “shuffle” and divvied out conditions from near calm to “should we reef?”. Sarasota bay being protected on all sides makes sailing near the upper design limits somewhat predictable which helps expand your performance envelope. Seven races over three days kept sailors on their toes and the chiropractors in business for certain.

Typical of springtime pre-frontal passage in Florida, the first day dawned with a decent land breeze that was destined to quit right around first flag.  It was a lively 3 mile sail to the course from the dock with all the boats making their last adjustments.  Bad time to realize you left the beer cooler on the dock.  Fire that dude.

The race committee tried valiantly to run a race despite all the indications that this would be a drifter with large shifts and holes.  It was great light air sailing all the way to the giant hole at the top mark.  Hat Trick’s private breeze was not received well by the other sailors showing negative vmg.  Mercifully, the PRO announced the race abandoned as the breeze showed signs of backing 120 degrees.  Reaching to C-gate would have been an interesting twist.

A side note about the neat technology on the course this weekend.  The race committee used autonomous turning marks which kept station via GPS and other remote controlled wizardry, making minor adjustments to keep the course windward/leeward at all times.  Definitely nice to see a technical solution to assist mark boats in their challenge to keep the course and lines square.  Race Qs app is a crowd-source regatta tracker which has a lot of cool features.  Load it on your phone, set the start time, and the app does the rest while you’re sailing.  Replays later can be edited to add marks/starts, weather conditions, and group boats by fleet.  Displays can include VMG, SOG and a host of other data.

So, while motoring back to the committee boat to organize for race #2, the little “mark-bots” (think ) were busy scurrying across the bay to set the new course.

Races 2 and 3 were ideal with the seabreeze filling in to a moderate 10-12.  Races were tight, and little mistakes could add up big to those who were caught unawares.  A great first day to sort the boats out.

Saturday was forecast to be rainy and cold (high 60’s) but the PRO pushed on to get some races on the books in case Sunday turned into a blowout per the forecast.  The wind held for the most part in the 10-12 range, but the rain showed up and ended the day after 2 races.  Of course, after all the boats were tied up at the Squadron the clouds broke, the sun shone brightly, and the wind steadied at 14…  Second guessing never works

Sunday could be considered by many as “sporty”.  Clear and cool (upper 50’s to 70 by midday) with winds initially in the 18+ with gusts to 25 range.  Definitely nice to be sailing in protected water in conditions near your design windspeed envelope. If you’re going to build your sailhandling confidence, this is the time and place to do it.  No epic wipeouts or crashes, but there were some difficult spinnaker sets and drops in the conditions.  Races 2 and 3 were conducted in a bit more settled conditions with wind dropping to 10-12 with gusts in the mid-teens. Definitely tests your ability to shift gears to lighter conditions.

Overall, the Corsair course had high and low PHRF classes and the growing and incredible competitive did I mention growing 750 fleet.   In the 750 class, Hat Trick (first time on a race course with excellent prep by the FinishLine ) started with four bullets with Phil Styne brining his winning crew Todd Hudgins from the Nationals win in New England in 2008?  and highly experienced Corsair sailor Tom Reese to do battle with perennial  winner in the class Larry Geller.  Humility (Austin TX), Lucy Gene (Austin TX) and Tri Polar weren’t going to let either of those two hooligans get away with any slacking, and finish positions were traded often during the busy weekend.

The overall Corsair Nationals trophy went to Kathyrn Garlick on C 28r Evolution who sailed most of the last day with a torn main. Second overall was newcomer Alan Moore C 28r. Third was Larry Geller Sprint 750 beating out the 750 class winner Phil Styne with the overall time scoring system.

There were old timers (I have had some Corsair or another for 29 years) and one boat was literally picked up by its new owner the day before the regatta and stopped by on its way to its new home in Wisconsin to put on a good showing.

Sarasota Sailing Squadron as always was a great venue in-spite of missing the big dinner.

There was sponsorship by Corsair and The FinishLine. 

Special Thanks to Jim Bergoin, Billy Black and Mike Cantalana!

Michigan couple happy to receive their new Corsair 760!

New owners of a Corsair 760 from 180 Marine

Nick and Nancy have been waiting patiently for their new Corsair 760. Now that it’s here they have invited many of their family and friends to come out and sail with them as they all get to know the boat. This is a comfortable boat to host about 6 people. Plenty of room out on the nets!

Our commissioning team started working on 2 Corsair 760s in Long Beach, which is where the container ships arrive. It was possible to share the container costs by having Corsair put 2 Corsairs 760s in one container!

The Corsair 760 ready for the final touches

You can see here the size of the high-volume floats and the reverse bows. They help the vessel cut through the waves easily. This design also offers additional buoyancy to significantly increase the vessels righting moments and safety margins.

Incredibility strong beam support. Beams are the same style as the Pulse 600 and better for deflecting water.

The silicone lubricant allows for full tightening of the inspection ports to ensure a good seal.

Pure silicone is also great for protecting rubber hatch seals and lubricating rotating deck hardware, tracks, and bolt ropes.

Galley unit slides out of the way when you need shoulder room, maybe during a mid-day squall!

2022 Tohatsu 6 HP Sail Pro Outboard Motor

Final home!

Race to Alaska - Start date June 13, 2022

Trimarans are probably the best vessel to sail in the Race to Alaska, they are fast, stable and there is lots of room to move about!

Team Elsie Piddock in a trimaran wins the Race to Alaska, 2015

About the race to Alaska…

750 miles no motors, no support, all the way to Alaska!

Stage 1 Race start: June 13, 2022, Port Townsend, Washington
Stage 2 Race start: June 16, 2022, Victoria, BC
Application deadline: Tax Day baby! April 15th

The inside passage to Alaska has been paddled by native canoes since time immemorial, sailing craft for centuries, and after someone found gold in the Klondike the route was jammed with steamboats full of prospectors elbowing each other out of the way for the promise of fortune.

It’s in the spirit of tradition, exploration, and the lawless self-reliance of the gold rush that Race to Alaska was born. R2AK is the first of its kind and North America’s longest human and wind powered race, and currently the largest cash prize for a race of its kind.

This isn’t for everyone

It’s like the Iditarod, on a boat, with a chance of drowning, being run down by a freighter, or eaten by a grizzly bear. There are squalls, killer whales, tidal currents that run upwards of 20 miles an hour, and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.

Three brothers from Marblehead won a more than 700 mile race that began in Washington and ended in Alaska 2017.

Team Blackfish during the Race to Alaska, 2015

Angry Beaver during the Race to Alaska, 2019

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The new 29’ Corsair 880 was developed for the modern sailor; adventurous and versatile!

Corsair 880

United States Sail Grand Prix/San Francisco / March 26-27, 2022

There is an exciting range of ticket options for the United States Sail Grand Prix/San Francisco

EIGHT TEAMS // EIGHT EVENTS // EQUAL BOATS

Expect sheer emotion, state-of-the-art technology and incredible drama as elite athletes fly cutting-edge wingsailed catamarans in thrilling close-to-shore races.

It’s full speed ahead for SailGP’s eight-nation fleet as they head into Season 2’s home stretch. Vying for the highly coveted $1 million top prize, the United States Sail Grand Prix will play host to the championship league’s Grand Final on March 26-27, 2022 in San Francisco.

Known for its cable cars and hilly streets lined with Victorian houses, the Bay area will be pumping with adrenaline as the eight identical high-flying F50s battle it out for ultimate supremacy against the backdrop of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

As the final event of Season 2, stay tuned to see if the defending champions, Australian SailGP Team, will clinch their second consecutive title, or if a new winner will be crowned.

Save the dates!
 Make your arrangements today - details coming
180 Marine will be host to the Corsair sailing community during the San Francisco 2022 Grand Prix.

New owners of the Corsair 760 will be ready to meet, greet and sail together before the Grand Prix event on March 24-25. Plans are in the works to spectate the race in the Race Village on the waterfront March 26 and on dedicated on-water access March 27.

Double-handed Farallones 42nd year!

On Saturday, September 25, 2021 this more than exciting race begins at 0800 at Baker Beach.

Papillon at Mile Rocks Double-handed Farallones Race 2015 © Erik Simonson

Here is a great interview with a local San Francisco sailor Dave Wilhite about the 2020 Double Handed Farallones Race. “This race is a test of human and boat not to be taken lightly.”

Hands down, sailing out under San Francisco’s fabled Golden Gate Bridge is one of the coolest experiences that any sailor can have. Not only is the scenery dramatic, but once you're a few miles out, the onshore world melts away and you’re immediately into offshore sailing conditions.

While this experience is magical aboard any boat and with (almost) any crew, the feeling likely compounds itself when there are just two crewmembers onboard, surrounded by the rugged California coastline, and, after some time, the wide-open Pacific Ocean.

If this sounds enticing, the 58 nautical mile Double Handed Farallones Race could be the next addition to your bucket or annual to-do list of sailing events. The event, which is organized by the San Francisco Bay Area Multihull Association, begins just off of the Golden Gate Yacht Club (GGYC) and takes the fleet of monohulls, catamarans and trimarans out and around the Southeast Farallon Islands (skippers can opt to round in either direction) and returns to a finishing line off of the GGYC.

Given that the race is held annually in the early days of spring, skippers and crews must be prepared for conditions ranging from light zephyrs to heavy airs and accompanying seas. (If this is starting to sound like a great doublehanded adventure, you’re on the correct tack.)

I checked in with Dave Wilhite, race chair of the Double Handed Farallones Race (Saturday, March 28), via email, to learn more about this year’s event.

Can you explain the race’s culture to the uninitiated?

The Double-handed Farallones [DHF] race is a rite of passage for sailors on the Bay. We know people who buy boats and learn to sail with the hopes that they’ll be confident enough in their skills to one day race the DHF.

The shorthanded nature of the race makes it a stepping stone towards ocean competence. And then, for the experienced ocean veterans in the fleet, it gives them a chance to stretch their legs at the beginning of the season.

This race is a test of human and boat not to be taken lightly.

In your mind, what are the racecourse’s toughest segments (or biggest challenges)?

The whole thing! The wind and wave state can vary a lot over the course, usually with light winds in the morning building to blustery conditions by the mid-afternoon. You have to pace yourself and stay aware of the conditions, not just the wind and wave state, but also stay self-aware of your comfort level on the boat, and communicate with your crew to make sure you are taking enough little breaks to stay in top shape all day.

Continue Reading >>

This race and many others are hosted by San Francisco Bay Multihull Association. SFBAMA.
This club does a great job! Good events, great members, and lots of support.

BAMA is the primary organization supporting multi-hull racing, cruising, and safety in Northern California. As well as organizing multi-hull racing and cruising events, BAMA is the official source of Multihull PHRF Rating Certificates in Northern California. To race in Northern California regattas open to multihulls, your need a rating certificate issued by BAMA.

Learn More >>

June showing of the Corsair 760 Sport and the Corsair 880 Sport in San Pedro, California

Great turn out!

At 180 Marine we don’t build boats. We don’t design things that don’t work. We make boats sail faster with smarter designs. We make things that are buffeted by Mother Nature last longer. Life’s too short to sail just an average boat.

Richard Allen was on hand to discuss the smart upgrades on these 2 Corsair models. Richard has extensive experience racing, training, and installing his best ideas for making these tri’s sail faster and safer.

On June 11, 12, 13, 2021, 180 Marine was pleased to meet up with new and current Corsair Trimaran owners. We had 2 new models to show the Corsair 760 Sport and the Corsair 880 Sport. By comparing these 2 models side by side our visitors were able to see first-hand pros and cons for their sailing needs. We highlighting many performance upgrades on these 2 new models. Talk to us…Learn how 180 Marine can help you take an average trimaran, new or used, to make it extraordinary.

We are also pleased to have met our new customer from the south of France who after seeing and sailing the Corsair 760 Sport decided to purchase it! He wants to be sailing in Cancun this year! 180 Marine will be shipping this boat into Cancun Mexico where it will be enjoyed by many within his company!

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Richard Allen with new customers reviewing the Corsair 880 Sport in Long Beach, California

There is so much room the Corsair 880 Sport to host about 8 of your friends!

Inspection of the base on the Corsair 880 Sport

Richard Allen “Corsair Trimaran Expert” from 180 Marine answering Corsair 880 questions

Corsair 760 Sport

Toby Hamer, GM from 180 Marine sailing the Corsair 760 Sport

Corsair 760 Sport

Corsair 880 Sport

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If you’re interested in knowing more about the Corsair 880 Sport or the Corsair 760 contact Richard Allen / 180 Marine Corsair Marine Expert. richard@180marine.com
Learn more about 180 Marine >>

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A big thank you to all who came to participate in the 2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta

San Diego has always been a beautiful place to hold this Regatta. This year winds were a bit shifty and overall a bit chilly. The focus on Saturday the 20th (1-day official Rally Race event with multiple fleets, one dedicated to trimarans) was on boat handling and good teamwork. The overall multihull fleet consisted of 5 boats this year each with good local knowledge of San Diego Bay. Nevertheless, the trimaran community came together once again!

Did you know...the NOOD Regatta series was founded in Newport, Rhode Island, by the editors of Sailing World in 1988 to help foster the growing interest in racing one-design sailboats.

We're making this our "regular stop" on our annual trimaran event schedule! Thanks, guys, and gals, there was great camaraderie among all who participated. Let's keep building the trimaran fleet in Southern, California! Here are a few characters from the 2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta event in San Diego.

Brian and Kelly Arnett / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE
Eric Tremaine / Corsair 760 /SLO POKI
Mark Berdan / Farrier F82 R / UNEVEN KEEL
Peter Lucas / Corsair 31 / FLEXIBLE FLYER
Terry Argast / CORSAIR 28 / TRIDENT

2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta event in San Diego

The Corsair 880 Sport among the big guys! Naval Base San Diego, also known as 32nd Street Naval Station, is the second-largest Surface Ship base of the United States Navy and is located in San Diego, California. Naval Base San Diego is the principal homeport of the Pacific Fleet, consisting of over 50 ships and over 190 tenant commands.

Skipper Brian Arnett and Crew Kelly Arnett / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Crew Kelly Arnett / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Crew Kelly Arnett, Leslie Gabriel / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Crew Kerr Gelvin, Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Trainer Jeff Vaught, Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Skipper Eric Tremaine and crew / Corsair 760 / SLO POKI

Jamey Kabisch/ Crew Corsair 760 / SLO POKI

Skipper Peter Lucas and crew / Corsair 31 / FLEXIBLE FLYER

Skipper Peter Lucas and crew / Corsair 31 / FLEXIBLE FLYER

Skipper Peter Lucas and crew / Corsair 31 / FLEXIBLE FLYER

Skipper Terry Argast and crew / Corsair 28 / TRIDENT

Skipper Terry Argast / Corsair 28 / TRIDENT

Skipper Eric Tremaine / Corsair 760 SLO POKI

Crew Richard Allen / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

Ginny Tory / Photographer, Video

Richard Allen, Crew / Leslie Gabriel, Photographer / Corsair 880 Sport / VALKYRIE

If you’re interested in knowing more about the new Corsair 880 Sport or the Corsair 760 contact Richard Allen / 180 Marine Corsair Marine Expert. richard@180marine.com
Learn more about 180 Marine >>

2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta / Multihull Fleet

A shiny new Corsair 880 SPORT arrives in Southern California to sail in the 2021 NOODS

CORSAIR 880 SPORT / VALKYRIE / Photo Leslie Gabriel

Just a few weeks before this Corsair 880 SPORT / VALKYRIE was imported and commissioned by 180 Marine, the new owners Brian and Kelly Arnett decided to join the race. What better way to see how she/they would perform? So off they went for 2 days with an experienced crew for training and tactics. They really wanted to see what the 880 Sport was capable of delivering. On race day the winds were shifty and mild which is another kind of challenge! The race committee set the official event at 17 nautical miles inside San Diego Bay based on the wind forecast. Turned out to be a bit long…

CORSAIR 880 SPORT / JUST FOR FUN SAIL / Photo Richard Allen

Anyway, the focus on Friday the 19th was launch and crew practice. Learn what matters most…and what to anticipate. Three new owners needed to learn some of the basic boat handling skills on a multihull. With coaching and support from Richard Allen, Jeff Vaught, and Leslie Gabriel from 180 Marine they spent a lot of time making sure the Corsair was set up correctly and ready to perform. Did a bit of sailing in the bay just to make sure they would have zero problems… and knew the course and marks.

CORSAIR 880 SPORT / VALKYRIE / Photo Ginny Tory

The focus on Saturday the 20th (1-day official Rally Race event with multiple fleets, one dedicated to trimarans) was on boat handling and good teamwork. The overall multihull fleet consisted of 5 boats this year each with good local knowledge of San Diego Bay. Wind conditions were shifty and oscillating, so we decided to not make (too) many transitions and avoid mistakes. A couple of times the team thought about flying the spinnaker downwind… but stayed with the screecher downwind on a winding course. Upwind the main and jib are the ticket!

CORSAIR 28 / TRIDENT / Photo Ginny Tory

At this year’s NOOD Regatta, we were expecting at least 7-10 trimarans in our fleet, only 5 could make it. This year there was a Farrier F82R, Corsair 28, Corsair 31, Corsair 880 Sport, and a Corsair 760. What a fantastic day!

CORSAIR 760 / SLOPOKI / Photo Sailing World

We’re working with local owners to make this a fun and exciting event for everyone in the trimaran community. Fun challenges like this bring our community closer together through socializing, networking, and of course some hard and fast legs on the racecourse! We hope to see you next year! No more of the COVID thing!

If you’re interested in knowing more about the Corsair 880 Sport or the Corsair 760 contact Richard Allen / 180 Marine Corsair Marine Expert. richard@180marine.com
Learn more about 180 Marine >>

2021 Helly Hansen NOOD Regatta - San Diego is on!

Join us on March 19-21, 2021.

Here’s a great opportunity to get to know our great trimaran community at the San Diego NOOD Regatta. While this event was rescheduled in 2020, 180 Marine is making up for lost time…dedicated to developing trimaran education, training, and racing in Southern California and the Western U.S.

A little history about 180 Marine…because there is just a little. Launched in 2016, 180 Marine is the fastest growing Corsair Trimaran dealer in the U.S. It’s owned and operated by Richard Allen and Leslie Gabriel, long-time Corsair Trimaran racers, day sailors, and cruisers. More owners turned to 180 Marine last year than any other source for Corsair trimarans.

Sailing World is the organizing authority of this event and San Diego Yacht Club is the host club.

At this year’s Regatta, we are expecting at least 7-10 trimarans in our fleet. In 2019 we had a decent turnout and we had a blast. The new Corsair 880 SPORT and the new Corsair 760 will be sailing, so take a look at these amazing hotrods! The Corsair 880 was awarded Sportboat of the Year by Cruising World.

Corsair 880 “Sportboat of the Year” / Cruising World 2021

Corsair 760 “Multihull of the Year” / Winner 2018

We look forward to seeing you and your crew flying on the Bay and with your favorite Corsair. There is a single day Rally Race on Saturday, and we’re confiming a second short-day event on Friday or Sunday with any owner who’s signed up for the official one-day race. Race committee will set the official event at 10-20 nautical miles inside San Diego Bay depending on the wind forecast.

The regatta will host 3 full days of racing with up to 12 races scheduled.

Days of Racing Schedule:

Dates: March 2021
March 19, 2021 (launch and crew practice day)
March 20, 2021 (1-day official Rally Race event with multiple fleets, one dedicated trimaran fleet.)
March 21, 2021 (short-day fun event in the bay.

We’re working with local owners to make this a fun and exciting event for everyone in the Corsair community, to bring our community closer together through socializing, networking and of course some hard and fast legs on the race course!
Please register early to ensure we have time to pull off an amazing weekend.

Due to possible state and local social restrictions with regard to the pandemic, NOOD Regattas, SDYC, and CorYC are unable to commit to a social schedule or fees at this time. Information about social events and ticket prices will be posted on the event website

2021 Corsair Trimaran Nationals, Sarasota, Florida

As far as we know the Corsair Nationals will be held this year in Sarasota, Florida on March 5-7, 2021. All COVID 19 safety guidelines are outlined in the “Notice of Race.”

The Regatta is targeting a number of 35 Corsair trimarans gathering together in the pristine waters of Sarasota Bay, Florida. In addition, the SBMR Regatta is also expected to attract classes including Stiletto, Windrider, and a variety of other multihulls/trimarans.

We look forward to seeing you and your crew flying on the Bay and with your favorite Corsair. There will be lots of racing! A box take out dinner on Saturday due to Covid precautions. Registration is only through Regatta Network and will close on Wed, 3/3/21 at 5 p.m. There is no onsite or late registration. Registration is now open.

The regatta will host 3 full days of racing with up to 12 races scheduled. There are 2 options for days of racing, you can either go with 2-day or 3-day races.

Days of Racing Schedule:

Dates: March 5, 2021
March 6, 2021 (2-day racers)
March 6, 2021 (3-day racers)
March 7, 2021

We would love to make this a fun and exciting event for everyone in the Corsair community, with the Corsair Nationals intended to bring our community closer together through opportunities of socializing, networking and of course some hard and fast racing!
We must plan for the appropriate event size so please register early to ensure we have time to pull off an amazing regatta. Register today for early bird pricing!

Boating is good for you, confirms new scientific study in Sail World!

But you already knew that!

Here is a great article we thought you would find interesting…The article is by Domenic Genua / September 27, 2020

“Dr Wallace Nichols… has shown getting out on the water in a boat promotes rest, with significant physiological and psychological benefits…

“His research includes the vast cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, physical, and spiritual benefits that we can all derive from healthy waters and oceans throughout our lives.

“Through his research, Dr. Nichols has identified that the mere sight and sound of water promotes wellness by lowering cortisol, increasing serotonin and inducing relaxation. Being on the water promotes physiological and psychological benefits that help manage trauma, anxiety, sleep, autism, addiction, fitness, attention/focus, stress, grief, PTSD, build personal resilience, and much more.

“His study in the US has shown that 84% of parents think their kids would be more likely to unplug from their phones and laptops on a boat trip versus a road trip…”

Fun for kids at the Festival of Sails © Teri Dodds

The benefits of recreational boating have been assumed for decades and now through some interesting and compelling work, it has been proven that boating is good for you.

The award-winning marine biologist Dr Wallace Nichols is internationally renowned for his study which, through a scientific evidence-based approach, has shown getting out on the water in a boat promotes rest, with significant physiological and psychological benefits. He has found that with our lives getting increasingly busy and stressed, boating is the perfect way to unwind and relax.

His research includes the vast cognitive, emotional, psychological, social, physical, and spiritual benefits that we can all derive from healthy waters and oceans throughout our lives.

Through his research, Dr. Nichols has identified that the mere sight and sound of water promotes wellness by lowering cortisol, increasing serotonin, and inducing relaxation. Being on the water promotes physiological and psychological benefits that help manage trauma, anxiety, sleep, autism, addiction, fitness, attention/focus, stress, grief, PTSD, build personal resilience, and much more.

West Marine US Open Sailing Series Launches in 2021

Six Olympic-Class Regattas are scheduled in Florida and California.

Sailing has the potential to change a life and can build character for the next generation!

“West Marine’s mission statement is to outfit, educate and inspire boaters,” said Ken Seipel, CEO of West Marine. “Partnering with US Sailing on this new Olympic-class series is a great opportunity to inspire both current Olympic hopefuls as well as young athletes about to enter the sport with dreams of standing on the podium.”

The West Marine US Open Sailing Series offers an increase in high-quality Olympic-class racing for U.S. athletes with a long-term goal of attracting top-level international competitors to race in these regattas for years to come.

BRISTOL, R.I. (January 11, 2021) – US Sailing and host yacht clubs at spectacular sailing venues in Florida and California are thrilled to launch a new U.S. based racing and training series of Olympic-class regattas in 2021.

The West Marine US Open Sailing Series offers an increase in high-quality Olympic-class racing for U.S. athletes with a long-term goal of attracting top-level international competitors to race in these regattas for years to come.

US Sailing and the larger community of sailors in the U.S. has identified a strong demand for a racing and training platform based in the United States that serves to provide a runway to the Olympic Games for prospective athletes. With the 2028 LA Olympics on the distant horizon, it is essential for US Sailing to establish a consistent and predictable cycle for athletes to plan for on an annual basis.

US Sailing and event organizers are honored to have West Marine as the title sponsor for the new series. For more than 50 years, West Marine has been the premier retailer of sailing, boating, fishing, and paddling gear. The company is committed to providing the local sailing community and all boaters with the highest quality products and expert service, all while inspiring a new generation. West Marine has a long-standing history of supporting the sport of sailing with a focus on youth and young sailors who aspire to reach new heights.  

“West Marine’s mission statement is to outfit, educate and inspire boaters,” said Ken Seipel, CEO of West Marine. “Partnering with US Sailing on this new Olympic-class series is a great opportunity to inspire both current Olympic hopefuls as well as young athletes about to enter the sport with dreams of standing on the podium.”  

This series of regattas allows US Sailing to provide more support for sailors at these events through advanced and in-person coaching, training, and data collection. The series will become an important part of the training plans for young sailors participating as part of the Olympic Development Program (ODP), a US Sailing initiative supported by the AmericaOne Foundation that provides world-class coaching support to promising American youth sailors competing in high-performance classes.

2021 West Marine US Open Sailing Series:

January 15-18: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Lauderdale Yacht Club

January 21-24: Miami, Florida
Miami Yacht Club Youth Sailing Foundation

February 4-7: Clearwater, Florida
Clearwater Yacht Club, Clearwater Community Sailing Center, Tampa Bay Charities, Sail Life

June 11-13: San Diego, California
San Diego Yacht Club

July 9-11: Long Beach, California
Alamitos Bay Yacht Club, Long Beach Yacht Club, US Sailing Center Long Beach

August 13-15: San Francisco, California
St. Francis Yacht Club, Treasure Island Sailing Center, San Francisco Yacht Club, Richmond Yacht Club

The yacht clubs and sailing organizations hosting these US Open Sailing Series events are the Organizing Authorities for each regatta.

“This series is a real game-changer for Olympic-class sailing in the U.S.,” said Leandro Spina, US Sailing Olympic Development Director. “The U.S. really needs an Olympic sailing platform like this, so prospective athletes at every level can race and train right here in the United States. We want to be more efficient and resourceful with our efforts to prepare our athletes for the Games and provide them with a tremendous experience.”

Are you ready for America's Cup action?

Prada America’s Cup World Series Auckland and Prada Christmas race format announced.

Four international teams from New Zealand, Italy, United States, and Great Britain will line up for the first time on their second generation of flying AC75’s for the PRADA America’s Cup World Series Auckland and the PRADA Christmas Race (December 17-20).

The event will see current America’s Cup Defender Emirates Team New Zealand, the Challenger of Record Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team, INEOS TEAM UK and New York Yacht Club American Magic facing each other during four days of match racing on the Waitemata Harbour and the Hauraki Gulf widely regarded as ‘The jewel in Auckland’s crown’.

The first race will start few minutes after 3pm on December 17 and will the Defender Emirates against the Challenger of Record. The second pairing will be American Magic versus INEOS TEAM UK.

With each of the teams interpreting the AC75 design rule differently there are marked differences between all four boats launched so far and therefore great anticipation to see them race for the first time.

The racing format for the four days of racing has now been finalised. For the first three days of the PRADA ACWS Auckland (17th-19th of December) there will be four races per day of Round Robin competition when all of the four teams will race each other twice.

The fourth day (20th of December) the PRADA Christmas Race will kick off and will be comprised of two knock out stages, the first stage consists of two head to head match ups, the winners of each will progress to the final, the losers to a 3rd & 4th match which will help decide the final rankings. The pairing of the Christmas Race Semifinals will be decided by the results of the PRADA ACWS Auckland double Round Robin.

The races will be held on a windward-leeward racecourse with an upwind start and last around 25-30 minutes each.  

Racing is scheduled for 1500 – 1800 each day weather permitting. The race course will be communicated on racing days by the Race Management depending on wind direction, intensity and tides. The permitted wind range is between 6.5 and 21 knots. 

The America’s Cup Race village is FREE to enter and a great place to enjoy the action from, or soak up the village atmosphere. Depending on the course of the day, there are many vantage points around Auckland, from which the racing can be enjoyed while on land.

For the Challenger teams, the results from the ACWS and the Christmas Race regatta will determine the pairings for the PRADA Cup Challenger Selection Series to be held in January/February 2021 that will decide which of them will take on Emirates Team New Zealand in the Match for the 36th America’s Cup presented by PRADA starting on March 6th 2021.

Pre race press conference >>

180 Marine Delivers Corsair 880 Sport #3 into Pensacola, Florida

This week we’re excited to sail the new Corsair 880 Sport in Pensacola, Florida. The final destination for this Corsair 880 Sport will be near Austin, Texas. We’re lucky the weather has been perfect for commissioning. Out of the box the 880 is BIG!

Our support team is AWESOME to work with at Advanced Yachtworks, Zern Rigging, Windcraft, Legendary Motors and Pensacola Shipyard. These trimarans don’t come out of the container ready to sail… there are many days of commissioning work to be done and 180 Marine has a great network ensuring smooth outcomes. As a Corsair trimaran expert Richard Allen has over 25 years of experience sailing and optimizing these amazing trimarans. Having state of the art equipment at the boatyard makes the job go smoother ie: a Marine Travel Lift with a 220,000 lb. capacity and a 14-ton mobile crane and a 4000 lb. 21’ long forklift boom make short work of it in capable hands.

180 Marine has many Corsair 880’s arriving throughout the U.S. in 2021 so what a great way to start the new year! Some will arrive via Pensacola, Florida and some will arrive via Los Angeles, California. We work hard to find the right fit for your sailing needs, and customize what's available until it's perfect for you. More Corsair owners have chosen 180 Marine this year than any other source.

We want to share the commissioning experience with you as the Corsair 880s arrive from afar. Enjoy these detailed images of the Pensacola delivery and first sail.

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Corsair 880 SPORT #3 First Sail

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Corsair 880 #3 Delivery

The Corsair 880 Sport 45-foot Carbon Mast

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Custom aluminum double-axle trailer from Magic Tilt

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Check out our Corsair 880 FAQ page. Our FAQ’s will be updates monthly. See when and where you can see and sail a Corsair 880 >>

180 Marine on tour - Pensacola, Florida then on to Austin, Texas

Embrace adventure on a Corsair trimaran!
December 2020 in Florida - January 2021 in Texas.
Come out to evaluate the Corsair 880 Sport.

180 Marine will be in Pensacola, Florida December 1-10, 2020. This Corsair 880 #3 will be in Pensacola until the beginning of January 2021. After spending time in Florida the Corsair 880 will head to Canyon Lake, outside of Austin, Texas. Are you ready to view and evaluate if this is the boat for you?

Corsair 880 Sport

Corsair 880

Corsair 880 Interior

Corsair 880 Interior

If you’re interested in viewing this Corsair 880 trimaran or learning more about other Corsair trimaran models hop in your car and come on out! Richard Allen founder of 180 Marine is a Corsair Trimaran expert. He has been adventure sailing and racing the Corsairs for 20+ years. He’s passionate about these amazing boats and knows them inside and out.

Learn more about 180 Marine >>

Learn more about the new Corsair 880 Sport >>

Richard Allen / Corsair trimaran expert from 180 Marine
Leslie Gabriel / First Mate

If you’re interested in seeing us either in Pensacola or Canyon Lake contact leslie@180marine.com and we will get back to you.

180 Marine on tour - San Pedro, California

Embrace adventure on a Corsair trimaran!
October 30 - November 2, 2020
Evaluate the Corsair 760 Sport.

Cabrillo Marina, California

2021 Corsair 760 Sport

2021 Corsair 760 Sport

2021 Corsair 760 Sport

Folding and unfolding a Corsair trimaran takes only minutes. With just 4 bolts to remove, it is easily managed by one person, and is normally done while the boat is afloat. Simply raise (to fold) or press (to unfold) the inboard end of one cross beam - meaning it can be done from the safety of the cockpit. Only a little force is needed due to the folding system;s carefully balanced geometry and the floats movement being mostly horizontal.

180 Marine will be in San Pedro, California ready for you to view and evaluate if this is the boat for you.

If you’re interested in viewing this Corsair trimaran or learning more about other Corsair trimaran models hop in your car and come on out! Richard Allen founder of 180 Marine is a Corsair Trimaran expert. He has been adventure sailing and racing the Corsairs for 20+ years. He’s passionate about these amazing boats and knows them inside and out.
Learn more about the Corsair 760 Sport >>

If you’re interested in seeing us in Long Beach contact leslie@180marine.com and we will get back to you.
Learn more about 180 Marine >>

Richard Allen and Leslie Gabriel founders of 180 Marine, we look forward to meeting you!

Corsair trimaran training - San Francisco, California

Richard Allen enjoyed a delivery sail on a 2018 Corsair 760 Sport on San Francisco Bay. The boat was towed cross-country to a new owner this month. We had great wind conditions for a first sail, and this Corsair came all the way out west from Arkansas to meet its new owner. Michael has plans to sail in the bay with fellow trimaran sailors, Ross Stein and Rafi Yahalom, they are a couple of the most experienced trimaran sailors on the bay! That will help the learning curve…

This Corsair 760 Sport was customized for race-winning performance and easy cruising. Dealer mods include the primary and secondary control lines leading back to the cockpit. At 180 Marine we make a point to discuss deck layout with owners to optimize sailing efficiency for the sailing they enjoy most. There’s no single solution that’s best.

Nothing is underdone. The traveler purchase is increased from 3:1 to 4:1. The mainsail halyard is doubled from 1:1 to 2:1. The mainsheet is upgraded from 5:1 - 8:1. Making these changes offers easier trimming and lower loads on the lines. Bottom line is extending the the life of the rigging and a key benefit is trimming and tacking much smoother.

As speed increases so do the loads. After 10 knots it’s really nice to have extra purchase. Makes life easier on the crew and captain!

180 Marine is a leading dealer in the U.S. for Corsair trimarans

Learn more about the Corsair 760 Sport >>

Contact 180 Marine if you would like information on training on a Corsair trimaran >>

180 Marine on tour - San Diego/Oceanside, California

Embrace adventure on a Corsair trimaran!
October, 27-30, 2020
Evaluate the Corsair 760 Sport.

Corsair 760

Corsair 760 Interior

Folding and unfolding a Corsair trimaran takes only minutes. With just 4 bolts to remove, it is easily managed by one person, and is normally done while the boat is afloat. Simply raise (to fold) or press (to unfold) the inboard end of one cross beam - meaning it can be done from the safety of the cockpit. Only a little force is needed due to the folding system;s carefully balanced geometry and the floats movement being mostly horizontal.

180 Marine will be in Oceanside, California ready for you to view and evaluate if this is the boat for you.

If you’re interested in viewing this Corsair 760 Sport trimaran or learning more about other Corsair trimaran models hop in your car and come on out! Richard Allen founder of 180 Marine is a Corsair Trimaran expert. Richard has been adventure sailing and racing the Corsairs for 20+ years. He’s passionate about these amazing boats and knows them inside and out.
Learn more about the Corsair 760 Sport >>

If you’re interested in seeing us in Oceanside contact leslie@180marine.com and we will get back to you. Learn more about 180 Marine >>

Richard Allen and Leslie Gabriel founders of 180 Marine we look forward to meeting you!