Head of the Charles Regatta
October 16, 2026
Charles River (Cambridge Boat Club / BU DeWolfe Boathouse start) · Cambridge, United States
About
The Head of the Charles Regatta is the world's largest two-day rowing event, held annually on the Charles River in Cambridge, Massachusetts. A three-mile head race upstream through bends and bridges, it attracts athletes from around the world across sculling, sweep, para, and directors' challenge events.
Pick your distance
Everything below adapts to your choice
Start
Charles River (Cambridge Boat Club / BU DeWolfe Boathouse start)
Weather
Cool 13°C
Why this race
- World's largest two-day rowing regatta, globally recognized in the rowing community
- Iconic Charles River event attracting international athletes since 1965
- Doesn't fit endurance taxonomy (rowing), but clearly notable - taxonomy gap
If you like Henley Royal Regatta or Boston Marathon, you'll like this one.
Pack this
- Pogies or sculling gloves for cool 13°C river air on the water
- Warm layers + waterproof shell for launch area and post-race cooldown
- Unisuit, secondary trou, and dry change of clothes for after racing
- Water bottle for the shell + electrolyte tabs (no aid stations on course)
- Bow number, photo ID, and printed launch/marshalling time
What you should know
- 3-mile head race with 6 bridges and tight turns at Weeks and Eliot — study the course line before race day.
- Yielding rules: slower crews must yield when overtaken; failure to yield earns a time penalty.
- Strict launch windows from your assigned dock — miss your slot and you may not be allowed to race.
- Pick up bow numbers at HOCR HQ with ID; arrive early for any shell weigh-in or oarlock checks.
- Cool air over the Charles can bring chop and headwind — dress for the launch wait, not just race effort.
Based on 2 sources
The information shown here is based on the most recent listing we could find, and may change. Always confirm details on the event's official site before registering.