Rough Seas, Fast Sails: The Boracay 200 Yacht Race Adventure

Mar 23 min read

200 nautical miles. Three torn sails. Two canceled race days. One unforgettable adventure.

After an exhilarating offshore leg from Subic to Boracay, covering 200 nautical miles, the BPI Signature Yacht Race Series 2025 – Boracay 200 proved to be as thrilling as ever. The conditions were relentless, with the fleet battling strong winds and rough seas.

The last 5 Boats of the IRC Class Participating in the Boracay 200 Yacht Race 2025.

In the IRC Class, Karakoa dominated, finishing in 25 hours, while Raw Honey and Selma Star fought hard for their spots, crossing the finish line at 28 and 33 hours, respectively. But racing is never just about speed—it’s about endurance, strategy, and sometimes, surviving the unexpected.

(Missed the first leg of the series? Read about the Busuanga Leg here.)

When the Wind Wins: Canceled Races and Island Time

As sailors, we live for the wind—but sometimes, Mother Nature gives us a little too much of it. Days 2 and 3 of inshore racing were canceled due to extra-strong winds, forcing teams to pause and enjoy a rare break in the action. While some took the chance to rest and bond, Zed and I made the most of it—catching up on work, exploring new restaurants, and enjoying the comforts of Four Points by Sheraton Boracay (read our review here).

Staying in a spacious, modern room with direct pool access was exactly what we needed after the grueling offshore race.

We also had the chance to meet and network with other sailors including Atty. Mel Lagera, the first female commodore of Puerto Galera Yacht Club and co-captain of Cruising Class Neptunus III, and talk about exciting sustainability and sailing projects for the future between PGYC, Subic Sailing, and Lighthouse Legacy Foundation.

Day 4: Rain, Wind, and Racing On

By Day 4, the weather was still wild—windy and rainy—but the race committee decided to push through. The fleet braved two short yet exhilarating races, and I jumped on the media boat to capture the action up close.

Chanced upon the Crystal Symphony Cruise who had a first row seat on the Boracay 200 Yacht Race Day 4.

The waves crashed, the sails strained, and the crews worked tirelessly—this was yacht racing at its best!! And I felt that intensely as I snapped away photos an videos amidst all the action.

It was a rough week of sailing and beyond but thanks to the hard work and concern of the race committee and organizing team, we all made it safe and sound - all 12 teams of the Boracay 200. Imagine going out despite harsh condition ahead of everyone in smaller boats just to check if it's safe for everyone to sail for the day? That's dedication!

Another person I'd like to thank is Guy Nowell who tirelessly took world class shots of the race. Your work is beyond worldclass! Thanks for letting me tag along on your boat Guy!

Sailing for a Cause: Boracay Coastal Cleanup

Beyond the thrill of competition, the Boracay 200 also embraced sustainability. On Day 1 of inshore racing, sailors joined a coastal cleanup along Station 1, witnessing firsthand the island’s hidden waste problem (read about it here). It was a reminder that even as we chase the wind, we must also protect the waters that carry us.

Selma Star’s Fight and the Road to Redemption

Despite giving it our all, Selma Star couldn’t defend the Boracay 200 throne due to unforeseen circumstances—including tearing three spinnakers during the offshore leg. We finished third overall, but the fire to win still burns. Next stop: the Subic Regatta, where redemption awaits.

Why a Good Stay Matters in Races Like This

Whether racing or resting, a comfortable stay makes all the difference. Events like the Boracay 200 are physically and mentally demanding, and having a calm, relaxing space to recover is crucial. Four Points by Sheraton Boracay gave us exactly that—a prime location, modern amenities, and the perfect place to unwind before the next battle at sea.

Boracay 200 was a wild ride, but that’s the beauty of sailing—every leg is a new challenge, a new story, and a new reason to keep racing. See you in Subic, SAILORS!