Welcome to the Archive
The Master Mariners Benevolent Association was founded in 1867, growing out of the Boatmen's Protective Association's landmark Fourth of July race among the great coastal schooners and sailing scows of San Francisco Bay. What began as a working watermen's celebration became one of the oldest continuously-run regattas in the western United States.
This site serves as a historical archive of the association's events, vessels, and traditions — the annual Master Mariners Regatta, the Wooden Boat Show, the Jessica Cup, and the many cruises and gatherings that brought together lovers of classic and traditional wooden sailcraft on the Bay.
About the Annual Regatta
Held on the Saturday of Memorial Weekend, the Master Mariners Regatta features 75–100 traditional sailing yachts and work vessels competing on San Francisco Bay racecourses. The fleet is divided into 12 classes that crisscross the Bay, with excellent viewing from the waterfront between Pier 39 and the Golden Gate Bridge.
Site Sections
- History of the Master Mariners Regatta — From 1867 to the present day
- Annual Regatta — Race details, results, and traditions
- Wooden Boat Show — Classic and traditional vessel exhibitions
- Jessica Cup — Gaff-rigged and traditional yacht racing
- Membership — Information for traditional boat owners
- Sponsors & Partners — Maritime businesses supporting the regatta
- Maritime Links — Curated resources for the Bay Area sailing community
- Event Calendar — Annual schedule of MMBA events
- Drake's Bay Cruise — Annual offshore cruise
- The Shellback — MMBA member newsletter