The iconic Three Bridge Fiasco is almost here, bringing thrill (and sometimes the doldrums), and strategy to San Francisco Bay the last Saturday of January. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a curious spectator, we're here to help you make the most of the event, from onshore or aboard a chartered vessel.
Race Day is Saturday, January 31
What Makes the Three Bridge Fiasco Unique?
"It starts with a Fiasco, and could take you to Hawaii." With the tagline like that you know you're in for a race like no other. Hosted by the Singlehanded Sailing Society for over three decades, the Three Bridge Fiasco is the ultimate tactical puzzle. There is no set course. Instead, over 300 boats must round three marks - Blackaller Buoy (near the south end of the Golden Gate Bridge), Red Rock (Richmond-San Rafael Bridge), and Yerba Buena Island (Bay Bridge) - in any order or in any direction.
This unconventional format challenges sailors to outsmart the Bay's dynamic conditions. This creates a regatta where preparation, local knowledge, and good humor are the only things you can truly rely on.
Modern Sailing Club Members to Watch For:
This year, keep an eye out for two of our own instructors, braving the lines:
- David Dolenc will be sailing his Olson 25, Sea B, singlehanded, relying on the nimble maneuvering of the lightweight design to navigate the congestion and light winds. With a massive ebb tide predicted for the afternoon, David's tactical advantage lies in his boat's ability to short-tack effectively along the shore line, allowing him to "cheat the current" by staying in the shallower, slower water while the rest of the fleet battles the mid-channel flush.
- Paolo Juvara returns on the J/105 Chao Pescao with Modern Sailing Club member and race program alum, Pablo Vergara. For Paolo, this year is about redemption. After a stellar 2024 debut taking 3rd place, the 2025 race offered a harsh lesson in Bay physics: heavy currents and "shifty" light winds forced a retirement before they even crossed the start. "We're trying our luck one more time," says Paolo. You can watch his incredible 2024 race footage here to see the intensity from the cockpit camera and an overview of his route.
Watch the action here: 2024 Three Bridge Fiasco Aboard Chao Pescao
Best Ways to Watch the Action:
Prime Viewing Locations
- If you’re watching from shore, head to Crissy Field (the start is in front of St. Francis Yacht Club), Treasure Island, or ferry over to Angel Island for stunning views of the action.
- For water-based spectating, responsibly observe near one of the race marks while maintaining a respectful distance from competitors and the race committee. Don't forget: Angel Island docks are closed for repairs.
- Give raceboats the right of way. The chaotic nature of this particular race means there are no predictable routes so the racers will be rounding Angel Island via Racoon Strait, in addition to the southeastern extremity near Point Blunt.
Plan a Scenic Sail Away from the Crowd
- The start is at St. Francis Yacht Club, so expect congestion in the morning.
- The light winds can cause a traffic jam between the Estuary and Treasure Island throughout the day.
Enhance Your Day with Observation
- Even as a spectator, the race provides valuable learning opportunities. Observe how experienced crews manage sail trim, execute maneuvers, and handle challenging conditions.
- The primary race committee channel is VHF 71. Since this is the same channel charter members use to communicate with the Modern Sailing office, you can use your cell phone to call us directly: 415-331-8250.
Map from the Singlehanded Sailing Society's Facebook page
A Celebration of Bay Sailing
The Three Bridge Fiasco is an annual celebration that kick starts the beginning of the year and showcases the San Francisco Bay’s vibrant sailing culture, all brought to life by the Singlehanded Sailing Society. Whether you’re spectating, cruising, or competing, this event is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and camaraderie of the Bay’s sailing community.
Need a charter vessel? Contact us today to make this weekend unforgettable!
Whether you’re looking to study the tactics of our instructors or simply want to enjoy the spectacle of 300+ boats carving their own paths through the Golden Gate, there is no better vantage point than the deck of a sailboat. Our charter fleet is the perfect platform for an unforgettable day on the water.
Read about previous years' Three Bridge Fiasco races:
2021 Three Bridge Fiasco - Captain Mark Jordan's Race Report
2022 Three Bridge Fiasco Race Recap
2023 Three Bridge Fiasco: Modern Sailors' Race Results
Contributor Spotlight: Special thanks to Captains Laura Parent, Philip Strause, and Paolo Juvara for their expertise and insights, providing valuable experience and perspectives for our readers.
