We want to make your Race to Mackinac experience as smooth as possible, ensuring you can focus on what matters most: competing in this iconic bucket-list race! Below, you'll find essential information on full-service marinas, yacht services, travel and transportation options, accommodations, crew finders and much more to help teams prepare.
This page will be continuously updated as resources become available. We’re committed to providing everything you need for a seamless and unforgettable race experience!
Return From Mac Bus
The Chicago Yacht Club is pleased to partner with Windy City Transportation to offer convenient motor coach service for race participants traveling from Mackinaw City back to Chicago following the race.
Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride aboard our coaches as you relax and unwind after your journey to Mackinac Island.
Bus Back Details
All coaches will return only to the Chicago Yacht Club’s Monroe Station. There will be no service to Belmont Station.
Coaches will make one scheduled stop for lunch and a restroom break. No additional stops will be accommodated.
*Booking Details Announced Spring 2026.
Shore Bag Service
As a special benefit of membership, Chicago Yacht Club will provide complimentary transport of one airline carry-on size shore bag (max 25 lbs.) per member from Monroe Station to Mackinac Island.
Non-members may check one bag for a fee.
All individuals using the Shore Bag Service must be registered race participants. Service is non-transferable and non-refundable.
*Booking details available Spring 2026.
Discounted Race Accommodations
Chicago Yacht Club has secured special hotel room rates in Chicago and on Mackinac Island for participants and guests attending the 117th Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust.
If you plan to be in Chicago during Mac Race Week, a limited block of rooms is available at the Hyatt Regency Chicago from July 8–10.
For those traveling to Mackinac Island, special room rates are also available at Mission Point Resort and the Grand Hotel from July 12–15.
Room blocks are limited and reservations are available on a first-come, first-served basis. We encourage you to secure your accommodations soon before the blocks are fully booked.
Mackinac Island
MISSION POINT RESORT
Main Lodge: $531
Straits Lodge: $481
Click Here to Reserve
THE GRAND HOTEL
Grand Room: $610
Grand Superior Room: $610
Lake View Superior Room: $855
Click Here to Reserve
Chicago
HYATT REGENCY
Standard Room: $249
Deluxe Room: $279
Click Here to Reserve
Official Logistics Partner
We are proud to name Larsen Marine as official logistics partner of the 2025 Race to Mackinac. Larsen Marine can accommodate even the largest racing sailboats in their deep draft harbor and are one of the biggest full-service marinas on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Larsen Marine is also home to some of the most highly accredited, manufacturer-certified marine technicians in the industry.
“We are honored to be the official logistics partner of this historic race,” said Josh Erickson, general manager of Larsen Marine. “We are fully equipped to provide race support, and we’re excited for the opportunity to serve this incredible community.”
We recommend that you utilize Larsen Marine and consider them if you require any of the following services:
Vessel Offloading
Keel Installation
Mast Stepping
Rigging Services
Bottom Wash
Vessel Launch
New & Pre-owned Boat Sales
Brokerage Services
In celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Chicago Yacht Club, Larsen Marine is generously offering special discounts on services, parts, and supplies to all participants of the race. We highly recommend that you schedule ahead!
To inquire about race prep services, parts, or supplies, please email igates@larsenmarine.com or call 847-336-5456, extension 819.
If you’re looking to find a boat for the 2025 Race to Mackinac, contact Larsen Yacht Sales at pfroman@larsenyachtsales.com or 847-336-5456, extension 815.
Crew Finder
Are you interested in finding a boat to crew on for the Race to Mackinac? We’ve partnered with RailMeets to provide skippers and crew with an opportunity to connect.