Participants have until Sept. 29 to register. Last year, about 200 boats were in the regatta. About 230 sailboats are expected to compete in this year's regatta. Since Hurricane Andrew, the number of participants has decreased significantly. Before the storm, there were 21 classes and up to 700 boats, Bourke said.
Participants are a mix of serious racers and cruisers.
Most are the same people that the committee sees every year, she said. I myself, have been involved in the regatta for 25 years. It's wonderful to go to Elliot Key and see all your friends and know you're lucky to have Biscayne Bay. There isn't a place in the world that's as beautiful. It's the best place to sail and anchor.