Since the club's founding in 2002, the Vallarta Yacht Club’s vision has been to be a "world-class yacht club known for its service to members and contributions to yachting and the Banderas Bay region." Our on-the-water programs live up to that vision, offering everything from fun boating days and beach trips to sailing rallies and serious competitions for all skill levels.
Here's a look at what we've got planned for the 2025-2026 season:
Vallarta Sailing Foundation paves the way for young sailors to compete worldwide - you can help them reach their Olympic dreams!
Three young brothers from Banderas Bay — Namkhai, Sanka, and Inti Bourquin — are carrying the Vallarta Yacht Club burgee onto some of the most competitive sailing waters in the world. As junior members of VYC, their dedication and results are not only inspiring, but also positioning them as potential contenders to represent Mexico at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Thanks to the support of the Vallarta Sailing Foundation (VSF) and the encouragement of the VYC community, these talented sailors have already made their mark at prestigious regattas in Los Angeles this summer, racing alongside world-class competitors and Olympic medalists. Their journey highlights both the strength of youth sailing on Banderas Bay and the vital role that our club and members play in helping them reach the next level.
Yann Bourquin, the boys' father, wrote the following article to tell us about his sons' accomplishments and to express gratitude for all VSF and VYC members have done to support his family. In his own words:
This is the 3rd article in a series of stories and interviews with High-Performance Athletes who train out of Vallarta Yacht Club. The focus this week is on Elena Oetling Ramirez who is a well accomplished Laser Radial Competitor. Elena grew up sailing on Lake Chapala and trained extensively at Lake Chapala Yacht Club. I asked Elena a few questions about her sailing career, then did some research to learn a little more about this amazing athlete.
Elena, when did you start sailing and what class were you sailing in?
I started sailing by myself at the age of 9 in an optimist, (17 years ago) even though I have been sailing for my entire life with my dad and grandpa.
What has been your biggest accomplishment in the past 2 years?
I'm Central American and Caribbean Games Champion, 8th female in North American Championship in Long Beach, California, 4th female in the South American Championship in Paracas, Perú, and National Champion this year at WesMex..