A Big Thank You and Farewell to Coach Cris Ortiz!
It’s not every day you watch a 10-year-old grow into a national champion, world traveler, and inspirational coach—but that’s exactly what Vallarta Yacht Club witnessed with Cris Ortiz. Cris has been part of the VYC family since she was just 10 years old. Her mother, Marie Elena Vivas, moved the family to the area after recognizing that her three children were exceptionally talented sailors who needed regular training in Banderas Bay to reach their full potential.
Cris grew up in the Junior Sailing program at VYC and, along with her twin sister Andrea, was a force to be reckoned with. The two dominated WesMex Regattas, often leaving with three trophies apiece. Early in her sailing career, Cris earned spots in several prestigious international competitions during her Optimist (Opti) days.
Set Sail on Summer: At the VYC Junior Sailing Camp!
Get ready for an unforgettable splash of summer! This year, we're thrilled to launch a three-week-long VYC Junior Sailing Summer Camp, welcoming young sailors ages 7 to 17. With 10–15 campers joining us each week, it’s shaping up to be an exciting summer! Trust us, it’s anything but ordinary.
Annual General Meeting 2025
If it’s gonna happen, we’re gonna make it happen right here!!!
Interim Commodore Eric Bloomquist inspired members at the Annual General Meeting on March 25th by highlighting all of the progress the yacht club has made in this past year by coming together to rise above the challenges that faced us and looking forward to continuing the momentum we started. He is committed to the club “doing BIG things” in the sailing world and to improving its financial stability. Taking a slogan from the recent BBR’s theme from Captain Ron, Eric declared that “If it’s gonna happen, we’re gonna make it happen right here!” Those in attendance rallied to that battle cry with enthusiasm and optimism for the bright future. Many brought forth ideas on how they can help move the club forward into a club that thrives socially, fiscally and as a boating venue.
XXXII Banderas Bay Regatta Comes to A Close
Banderas Bay Regatta – Where FUN Wins Every Time!
Captain Ron himself couldn’t have thrown a better party! With more parties than races, we’re pretty sure that’s exactly what the founders had in mind—and the 32nd annual Banderas Bay Regatta stayed true to tradition. Over 200 crew members, volunteers, and organizers wrapped up the weeklong celebration with dancing, drinks, awards, and heartfelt tributes. Cheers to the winners—both on and off the water!
Vallarta Sailing Foundation: Helping to make a passion for sailing a reality
Sailing isn’t just a sport - it’s a passion, a challenge, and a lifelong adventure.
The Vallarta Sailing Foundation (VSF) is at the heart of this spirit in Banderas Bay, working tirelessly to give young sailors the opportunity to chase their dreams on the water.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: to support young Mexican sailors as they grow from beginners to national, international, and even Olympic-level competitors. Thanks to their efforts, local sailors have had the chance to race in major events like the Nacionales CONADE, the National Optimist Championships, and the Mayan Wind Fest. Some such as Elena Oetling have even gone on to represent Mexico on the world stage during the Olympics in Paris!
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