Our course is 400 meters long in a protected harbor formally used as a submarine basin for the US Navy, known as the Truman Waterfront and home of first dragon boat race in the Florida Keys in 2006. A traditional sprint is 250 meters with a standard race measuring 500 meters. Water conditions in May are generally smooth to a light chop with winds from the SSE. Tide fluctuation is minimal (2 feet between high and low). A 2000 meter race is staged for the top finishing teams from the A Division based on times in the Finals race.

All crews are eligible for the Battle In The Bay Championship which is awarded to the overall winner. Teams are also eligible for medals in the Division Challenge Race categories determined by the race times in the first round (Qualifying Heat). A list of challenge categories can be found on the registration form. All times in the first round are arranged fastest to slowest and teams are assigned to Divisions based on those times.

Teams receive two 60-minute on water practices (all equipment and boats provided) with a qualified coach during the week prior to race day, a group photo, reserved space in Athletes’ Village and are guaranteed to race a minimum of three times. Local (Monroe County) teams receive Team T-shirts and promotion of your fundraising events.