Events

Everything You Need to Know About SailGP in Halifax

May 09, 2024
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For the first time ever, SailGP’s adrenaline-fueled racing will make its long-awaited Canada debut on June 1-2 when 10 teams from across the globe go head-to-head for glory, sailing at unbelievable speeds in the center of the Halifax Harbour for all to see. From heart-pounding races to lively street parties, SailGP is bringing the heat to Halifax, and it’s going to be huge. With so much happening during this major sporting event, it can be difficult to keep tabs on all there is to enjoy. Here's a handy guide on everything you need to know about SailGP. 

What is SailGP?

SailGP is the world’s most exciting racing on water. The global championship features national teams battling in short, intense races at iconic stadium-style venues across the globe. The high-tech, high-speed action features sailing’s best athletes racing in identical hydrofoiling F50 catamarans, flying at speeds approaching 100 km/h.

How does it work?

The SailGP Championship is made up of a packed calendar of events taking place at iconic venues around the world. Ten rival national teams go head-to-head for Championship glory, competing at fast and furious events across multiple continents. 

Events are made up of multiple races and take place across two days, with 6 races in total scheduled for each Sail Grand Prix. The first day includes three fleet races, while the remaining two fleet races take place on the second day before the event winner is crowned in the final race on Sunday. These fleet races are intense and adrenaline-fueled lasting approximately 15 minutes each.

The ROCKWOOL Canada Sail Grand Prix will be the 11th stop on Season 4’s record-breaking 13-event calendar, which means teams will be putting it all on the line to move up the season leaderboard in the run up to San Francisco’s Grand Final.

Each event has 5 fleet races (3 on Saturday, 2 on Sunday) and one final race (on Sunday).

When and where is SailGP happening?

SailGP race days are happening on Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2, 2024. The heart-pumping action takes place right in the center of the Halifax Harbour, between Georges Island and the Macdonald Bridge. The races will be visible from both the Halifax waterfront and Dartmouth waterfront, with plenty of space to catch all the action. This is the first SailGP event to take place in Canadian waters, and  fans will be able to take in the race and festivities at multiple venues across the city.  

The address for entrance to the Race Stadium is 1521 Lower Water Street, Halifax, NS, B3J 1R9.

SailGP Explained

What times will the races happen?

Race Day 1 | Saturday, June 1
SailGP Race Stadium | 3:00pm-6:30pm ADT
Race Times | 4:00pm-5:30pm ADT

Race Day 2 | Sunday, June 2
SailGP Race Stadium | 3:00pm-6:30pm ADT
Race Times | 4:00pm-5:30pm ADT

Will I need tickets to see the races?

Tickets are not required to see the races – since the races will be taking place in the Halifax Harbour, there will be plenty of viewing opportunities along the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts, as shown on the map below. Both waterfronts are lined with patios – consider reserving a table at one to catch a great view of the action.

Dartmouth waterfront:

There will be a family-friendly fun zone and viewing area in Ferry Terminal Park for both race days with a giant video wall that will carry the live broadcast to follow along with all of the excitement, a Kiwanis community fundraising BBQ will be available, and live music from DJ Douvet that will keep the party going between races.

Alderney Landing will have a 19+ Splashzone with additional viewing screens that will carry the broadcast and commentary. On June 1-2 from 2-6:30 pm, the events plaza will feature an exciting boardwalk bar and on-site food trucks, Pop Up Cinema and Mr. Smooth while DJ Magic Mic gets the crowd cheering for the home team. Inside, people can visit the Craig Gallery for a special sailboat decorating art cart as well.

 

Halifax waterfront:

What should I wear to the races?

There is no official dress code for SailGP events, but since this is an outdoor event, it’s recommended you prepare for the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring a hat, high SPF sunscreen, and drink plenty of water if sunny weather is in the forecast. Halifax can be known to have unpredictable weather in June, with temperatures ranging anywhere from 10°C to 25°C. Be sure to pack a raincoat and warmer layers if rain is looking more likely. 

NOTE: large umbrellas are not permitted, as this will disrupt the view for other fans.

What else can I experience during SailGP?

Aside from the races, there are plenty of ways to enjoy all that SailGP has to offer. Enjoy live entertainment on the waterfront, including live feed viewing on a large screen at Queen’s Marque, a SailGP Fan Shop, and other fun activities along the Halifax waterfront. The famed Bluenose II schooner and HMCS Oriole will be resting in port at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and will be open for deck tours.

Argyle Street Shore Party
For a true Nova Scotian experience, Argyle Street will shut down and come alive with a lively Shore Party. An incredible line up of live entertainment will be staged each evening at the Argyle St. Shore Party – Friday, May 31 through to Sunday, June 2 from 6:30-10:00pm. Each evening will feature a schedule of marquee artists including Ria Mae, Neon Dreams, Adam Baldwin, Rankin MacInnis and the Broken Reeds.
Restaurant patios along Argyle Street are fully licensed and the street is closed to vehicle traffic.

Canada SailGP Team Outdoor Film Night – Meet the Team
Join the Canada SailGP Team at Queen’s Marque on Friday, May 31 from 8:00-9:00pm for premiere of the team’s Season 3 documentary.  This is a chance to meet the team and learn about the hurdles the team has overcome to be the team they are today.  Come early to save your seat and bring popcorn!

How should I get there?

Getting there and Parking
It is anticipated that there may be heavier than usual traffic in downtown Halifax and Dartmouth. Plan your route and parking in advance of the race schedule.

Parking Maps
Halifax — Parking | Downtown Halifax Business Commission
Dartmouth – Parking | Downtown Dartmouth

Taking Transit
Bus routes are anticipated to run on schedule with ferry services suspended for the race periods. The ferry will be suspended from 2:00-6:30pm on Friday, May 31, Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 for this event. Metro Transit will also be providing additional express shuttles for ferry riders during the race periods to ensure people make their connections at Alderney and/or Woodside terminals.

Express shuttles will run in rotation with pick up points at the Water St., Alderney Landing and Woodside terminals. Any amendments or schedule revisions will be updated on the Metro Transit website @ Halifax Transit | Bus | Schedules | Routes | Ferries | Halifax  – as well as on X — @HFXtransit  on X (twitter.com)

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