Homeward Bound Rally

May 18, 2025 Homeward Bound rally departure from Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten and Marsh Harbor, Bahamas (weather permitting)

Passage Discussion

The Homeward Bound Rally is an offshore passage in the company of other boats of many nationalities. The official destination is Hampton, Virginia, USA, but boats will sail directly to various ports on the US East Coast and Canada.

The rally to the US this May will have departures from Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten and Marsh Harbor, Bahamas on or about May 18^th for points north. Participants are encouraged to consider a stop in Bermuda if practical for you as you will able to meet up with the Azores rally fleet. Additionally, we are hosting a Bermuda rally from Hampton so there will be a number of Dawg boats visiting Bermuda at the same time. In the event that you choose to head to Bermuda this will be considered your arrival port and you can work with Chris Parker directly for routing to your final destination.

Boats departing from the Bahamas will gather in Marsh Harbour starting approximately May 15 (Marsh Harbour info here). Those departing from Sint Maarten will start gathering May 13. Read more about the Sint Maarten departure here.

As with all Salty Dawg rallies, the stated departure date is a goal, the actual date the fleet leaves port is weather dependent. The Rally includes weather routing, position tracking, and an extensive level of coordination and support during the offshore passage.

VHF radio and offshore communications equipment is required. Note: the only accepted tracking devices are the Garmin inReach family and the Zoleo Communicator. Please read the updated equipment requirements here. A limited number of Zoleo trackers will be available for rental. See this article for more details.

An arrival dinner in Hampton, VA will be planned for those boats that choose to make landfall there. The primary marina in Hampton is The Docks at Downtown Hampton.

The Rally includes weather routing by The Marine Weather Center, GW Medical coverage, position tracking map, and an extensive level of coordination and support during the offshore passage. Once you are accepted to the rally and your rally fees have been paid, you will be receiving rally specific information and access to the rally Welcome Page.

All boats will have round the clock comprehensive “concierge” style 24/7 emergency medical support from GW Maritime Medical Service from George Washington University, included with your rally fee. Additionally, each skipper will have the opportunity to work with GWMMS in advance of departure to prepare a comprehensive pharmaceutical and emergency aid kit to ensure that you are prepared to deal with many emergencies while underway.

Don't forget to stay in touch with the Salty Dawgs on new SDSA mobile App, details here.

All Salty Dawg rallies and events are led by seasoned sailors who volunteer their time and knowledge to help cruisers realize their dreams. The SDSA unites experienced ocean sailors with developing cruisers to broaden their blue water horizons.

SALTY DAWG RALLY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

If you would like to join us as a volunteer, we would love to benefit from your passion, personality, and expertise as we plan future events. Click here to volunteer.

Fleet Captain: this position takes over in the departure location with help from the Port Captains. The Fleet Captain and Port Captain share in welcoming activities and any events. After departure from any port, keeps the fleet organized.

Port Captains: this position takes the plans made in cooperation with the Rally Manager and implements them at each Port. The Port Captains and the Fleet Captain share in welcoming activities and planned events.