Summer on Mackinac Island is truly a magical time with beautiful warmer weather, blazing sunsets and magical cool evenings. Some of the spectacular highlights of the summer are the sailboat races. They’re a sight to behold as the bold symphony of beautifully colored sails come into view on Port Huron. There are many great places to watch the boats come in but I can speak from experience when I say that there’s no better view than watching the excitement from your water front balcony at the Chippewa Hotel. I’ve been to the Pink Pony countless times and it has amazing views inside the dining area overlooking the water plus their outdoor patio boasts breathtaking views and mouth- watering food and drinks.
The Pink Pony has had thousands of great reviews! The Pink Pony was recognized as ONE OF AMERICA’S 10 BEST RESTAURANTS FOR OUTDOOR DINING by The Daily Meal, a renowned publication for the best food and drink places around the world.
Mackinac is famous and proud of its history and boats have played a huge role from the beginning. Did you know that Mackinac Island’s first summer visitors were Great Lakes Native Americans and they came by boat? Specifically, they arrived in birch bark canoes. The Mackinac boat story continues because in July of 1812, British soldiers traveled by boat and landed on the shores of Mackinac, what it now called British Landing. They dragged two cannons to the highest point on the Island, where Fort Holmes is today, and because the Americans were unprepared, they surrendered to the British and the rest as they say, is history.
In the spirit of boats on Mackinac, this past July 5th was the Pink Pony 4th of July Sailboat Race sponsored by our very own Pink Pony and Chippewa Hotel. It was open to all sailboats and is a fun, family event We hosted a party and awards ceremony at the Mackinac Island Yacht Club right after the race!
The Chicago Yacht Club’s Race to Mackinac now celebrating its 111th year and starts Saturday July 13th, 2019. This is known as the world’s longest freshwater sailing event and recognized as one of the most prestigious sailing events in the world. More that 350 sailboats leave Chicago every year to start the long 333 mile voyage coming to Mackinac Island. There will more than 3,000 racers from all over the world and this year which makes it even more special.
Next up is a very historical race. Bell’s Beer Bayview to Mackinac Race is celebrating its 94th year! The Bayview Yacht Club in Detroit hosts this annual event and attracts sailors from around the globe! It starts in Port Huron on July 20th and all boats sail to Mackinac Island. Another great boat race to Mackinac!
July means Yachts and Yachts of Boat Races to Mackinac! Come and watch the great boat races from the best views on the island. Contact us now to make your reservations for your great summer get-away on Mackinac Island. We’ll be waiting for you when you arrive on any one of the ferry boats that can take you to the island. So will your room with a view!
We’re looking forward to seeing you again!
George Piliouras for The Chippewa Hotel
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