Jessica Cup Regatta
The Jessica Cup is the MMBA's annual autumn regatta, hosted by the St. Francis Yacht Club on San Francisco Bay. While the main Memorial Weekend regatta is open to a broad range of traditional vessels, the Jessica Cup is specifically designed for gaff-rigged and traditionally designed yachts — celebrating the older rigs and construction methods that define the MMBA's spirit.
Notice of Race — Key Details
- Eligibility: Yachts of traditional design and construction — gaffers with minimum 30 ft. on deck, marconi rigs minimum 30 ft. on deck, and the Farallon Clipper class
- Handicapping: By the Jessica Cup Committee based on available measurement data
- First Warning Signal: 1250 hours on race day
- Scoring: Low Point Scoring System, Appendix A
- Start: City Front, from the St. Francis YC Race Deck
- Berthing: Available at St. Francis Yacht Club Guest Docks
Race Day Schedule
Racing concludes with a trophy ceremony recognizing fleet winners. Following the ceremony, competitors and their guests are welcome to attend a Banquet dinner at the St. Francis Yacht Club. Trophies are awarded in accordance with fleet size.
Entry Requirements
An entry fee is required with the return of the Entry Form by the Wednesday before the race. A discount is available for entrants who provide proof of US SAILING membership.
About the Gaff Rig
The gaff rig — characterized by a four-sided mainsail supported by a gaff spar on its upper edge — was the dominant sail plan for working and cruising vessels through the 19th century and into the early 20th. The Jessica Cup celebrates this tradition, bringing together boats that connect the Bay's modern sailing community to its maritime heritage.
Classic gaff-rigged vessels on San Francisco Bay range from small catboats to ocean-going schooners, and the Jessica Cup draws them all to the starting line on the City Front.
St. Francis Yacht Club
The St. Francis Yacht Club, located at the Marina Green in San Francisco, has hosted the Jessica Cup and served as the start/finish for the main Master Mariners Regatta for many years. Its location at the edge of the Bay provides an ideal launching point for racing in the Central Bay.