Santa Pola is getting ready to host the excitement of the 100 Miles A1-A2 Regatta, one of the most anticipated sailing events on the Costa Blanca. On September 5 and 6, 2025, dozens of yachts will compete in a thrilling 100-mile course along the Alicante coast, offering a unique spectacle for both sailors and spectators.
What is the 100 Miles A1-A2 Regatta?
The 100 Miles A1-A2 Regatta is a long-distance sailing competition that has become one of the most important in the Valencian Community. Organized by the Real Club Náutico de Santa Pola, it brings together yachts of different classes in a race that demands strategy, skill, and true sportsmanship.
Its name refers to the approximate length of the course—about 100 nautical miles—and to the A1 and A2 categories, which define the type of participating yachts. Over the years, the event has become a benchmark for skippers and crews eager to test their skills in open waters, facing both tactical challenges and the unpredictable conditions of the Mediterranean.
A Brief History
The first edition of the regatta was held more than three decades ago, when a group of sailing enthusiasts decided to create a challenge that combined endurance and spectacle off the coast of Alicante. Since then, the 100 Miles A1-A2 has grown in popularity, attracting not only yacht clubs from across Spain but also international teams who see Santa Pola as the perfect stage to compete.
Each edition has left memorable moments: crews overcoming sudden storms, record-breaking speeds during steady wind days, and tight finishes in Santa Pola’s bay that have kept the excitement alive until the very last second.
Schedule and Course
- Start: Friday, September 5, from Santa Pola’s marina.
- Course: 100 nautical miles, including a passage near Tabarca Island, heading north towards the buoys off El Campello, and returning to Santa Pola’s bay.
- Finish: Saturday, September 6, with the traditional trophy ceremony at the Real Club Náutico.
The itinerary not only tests the sailors’ skills but also offers spectators breathtaking views: the marine reserve of Tabarca, the cliffs near El Campello, and the wide beaches framing the arrival.
How to Watch from Land and Sea
- From land: the best spots to watch the start are the pier at Santa Pola’s marina, Levante Beach, and the viewpoints on the cape. Here, the public can enjoy the spectacular sight of dozens of sails unfurling at once.
- From the sea: the experience is even more intense aboard a boat. Many fans charter yachts to follow the regatta up close. Watching the fleet pass by Tabarca or sailing parallel to the competitors offers a privileged and thrilling perspective. For those without experience, the best option is to hire a skipper and simply enjoy the safety and comfort.
Practical Tips for Spectators
- Check the weather forecast before heading out, especially if you plan to follow the regatta by sea.
- Bring binoculars and a camera to capture the best moments.
- Respect the competition zones: getting too close to the yachts can be dangerous and is strictly prohibited.
- Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- If you go by boat and lack experience, rely on a professional skipper. You’ll gain peace of mind and be free to enjoy the show.
Impact on Santa Pola and the Costa Blanca
The 100 Miles A1-A2 Regatta is not only a sporting event but also an engine of activity for Santa Pola and its surroundings. Hotels, restaurants, and shops see an increase in visitors during the competition days. Moreover, the regatta places the town firmly on the international sailing map, reinforcing the Costa Blanca’s image as a top nautical destination.
The event also helps bring maritime culture closer to the public. Entire families gather at the marina to watch the start, and many young people discover their passion for sailing thanks to experiences like this.
Sustainability and Respect for the Environment
The Real Club Náutico de Santa Pola and local authorities place great emphasis on environmental protection. The regatta passes near the Tabarca marine reserve, a protected area with valuable seagrass meadows (posidonia). Strict rules are enforced to prevent illegal anchoring, and awareness is raised about the importance of preserving the Mediterranean ecosystem.
Participants and visitors receive information about sustainable practices: waste management on board, energy saving, and respect for marine life. In this way, the regatta is not only a sporting event but also a model of coexistence with the natural environment.
Beyond the Regatta: Things to Do in the Area
Those visiting Santa Pola for the regatta can take the opportunity to enjoy the local gastronomy and charm of the Costa Blanca. Recommended activities include:
- Tasting the traditional “caldero tabarquino” in the restaurants of Tabarca Island.
- Strolling through the castle-fortress of Santa Pola and its historic center.
- Discovering the Santa Pola salt flats, a natural area rich in birdlife.
- Booking a private sailing trip to Tabarca or Alicante’s bay to extend the nautical experience beyond the regatta.
An Opportunity to Experience the Sea
The 100 Miles A1-A2 Regatta is much more than a competition: it is a celebration of the sea that blends sport, tradition, tourism, and sustainability. Its spectacular course, the festive atmosphere at the marina, and the thrill of watching dozens of sails racing across the Mediterranean make this event a must-see.
If you want to go one step further and enjoy the sea in complete comfort, you can book a private trip from Alicante and experience the regatta like never before. You’ll feel the excitement of the race, the charm of the Mediterranean, and the magic of an event that makes Santa Pola and the entire Costa Blanca come alive every year.
