Camden Classics Cup: Growing Tradition of Classic Boat Racing on the Maine Coast

Classic boat racing in Maine has evolved from a modest beginning into a vibrant summer tradition. Forty years ago, there were no formal classic boat regattas in the state. That changed in 1986 when Steve White and Frank Hull of Brooklin Boat Yard launched the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta (ERR). That first event drew just thirteen boats, but it sparked interest that eventually led to two additional regattas and the formation of the three-regatta Wooden Boat Series.

Over the years the calendar expanded. In 2015, Lyman-Morse introduced the Camden Classics Cup at the old Wayfarer Marine property in Camden, scheduling it the week before the Wooden Boat Series. More recently, the Shipyard Cup Classics Challenge joined the schedule as the opening event on the Maine Classic Yacht Owners Association Challenge Series, aligning with the long-established Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club Regatta to create a run of races that precede the Camden Classics Cup. Taken together, these events — now numbering five on many schedules — draw a seasonal procession of classic yachts and powerboats that travel the Maine coast to compete and celebrate traditional boatbuilding and seamanship.

Launch of the Reinvigorated Camden Venue

The Camden Classics Cup received special attention in 2022 when Lyman-Morse opened its newly refurbished waterfront facility just days before the regatta. The updated waterfront — replacing the old Wayfarer Marine structures — set the stage for a memorable event. Ninety-three boats lined up on Western Penobscot Bay, including four large wooden schooners and a broad array of varnish-laden classics that define Maine’s summer fleet. The regatta also featured an energetic youth race that drew 63 young sailors representing 10 clubs, demonstrating a healthy pipeline of interest in traditional boats and competitive sailing.

The regatta has also become a notable fundraiser. In 2022 the Camden Classics Cup raised $15,000 for LifeFlight of Maine, bringing the six-year total to $75,000. That charitable component has become a meaningful element of the event, reinforcing the community spirit that surrounds classic boat gatherings.

Weather, Competition and Community

The 2022 races tested crews with a range of conditions. The first day began with a steady breeze but ended under dark skies as rain and light winds forced some races to be declared no finish. The second day delivered a stark contrast: 15 to 20 knots or more kept sailors alert and tested boat handling across the fleet. Such variability is part of the regatta’s character, and sailors and spectators alike prize the combination of competitive spirit, seamanship and the unpredictable Maine weather.

Participants praised the event’s atmosphere and the upgraded facilities. Aja Digirolamo of Camden, who navigated one of the yachts, said the regatta brings diverse boats and draws interest from beyond the region, noting it attracts some of the Newport crowd as well. He also complimented the Lyman-Morse waterfront, calling the new buildings thoughtfully designed and more than just “another white building.”

Lyman-Morse President Drew Lyman also enjoyed the event despite a narrow on-the-water defeat. Lyman sailed his LM46 against a newer LM46 equipped with a performance package and was outpaced in the opening race. He shrugged off the loss with enthusiasm for the venue’s debut season. Lyman recounted how his competitors added a playful twist before the race: they secretly filled his port water tank, a prank he retold with good humor as part of the camaraderie that defines classic boat gatherings.

The Broader Tradition

Today, the Camden Classics Cup fits into a broader circuit of New England classic boat events that celebrate wooden and traditionally styled yachts alongside historic powerboats. From the origins of the Eggemoggin Reach Regatta to the expanding list of affiliated races, the season represents more than competition: it is an annual reunion for owners, crews, boatbuilders and enthusiasts who cherish the craftsmanship, history and beauty of classic vessels. The mix of spirited racing, family-friendly youth contests, community fundraising and thoughtful waterfront venues helps ensure these regattas remain vital to Maine’s maritime culture.

This article was originally published in the October 2022 issue.