Greenport sets sail for a weekend of yachts and oysters
There’s no need to clam up about it; Greenport’s maritime heritage is in full swing this weekend.
The inaugural Bug Light Classic Regatta — hosted by the East End Seaport Museum, Stirling Harbor Foundation, and Shelter Island Yacht Club — will sail Saturday after the nor’easter postponed it Sept. 26.
Classic yacht owners and sailors from across the East End are expected to take part in the race, which the museum hopes will become a regular stop on the Classic Yacht Owners Association circuit and revive the former Greenport Classic Yacht Race, last held in 2012.
“These boats are living history,” seaport museum director Erin Kimmel said. “Every plank and every line reflects generations of skill, and seeing them sail on the same waters that shaped Greenport reminds us why this maritime heritage is worth celebrating and preserving.”
The race will take place in Greenport Harbor between Preston’s Chandelry and the railroad dock. It will begin at 1 p.m.
Racers will start off of Mitchell Park and sail east, passing Bug Light in Gardiners Bay. The boats will then round a mark there and return to the starting area to finish.Greenport Harbor Brewing Co.’s annual Oyster Festival is also returning for a 13th year this Sunday, Oct. 11.
Carpenter Street will be closed from noon to 6 p.m. and filled with 11 oyster growers, each lining up to share their wares. Bivalves, special sauces and more will be available for sampling and purchase, typically costing about $3.
Just like attendees, growers aren’t charged to be at the event, and the proceeds go back to them, too.
“All of the oyster growers tell us that it’s one of their favorite events that they do as well,” Greenport Harbor Brewing Co. owner Richard Vandenburgh said. “It’s a profitable event for them as well, which we really love.”
Many of the offerings will continue from past years — including an oyster-infused beer, a shucking contest at 3 p.m., knick-knacks and live music from the Get Down Band — but new for this year is a food truck for those who aren’t so into oysters.
Mr. Vandenburgh said he expects upwards of 700 people to attend this year.
