Answer the satellite phone or else

Published on May 21st, 2024

Held on even years, the biennial break for the Newport Bermuda Race provides an opportunity to consider changes, which is what has occurred for the 2024 race which starts on June 21.

A big change is the course being lengthened one mile to 636 nm as the start line for the 53rd edition is being relocated farther into Narragansett Bay for spectators to witness start from Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island.

But safety is always a consideration, and this includes two changes that ensures authorities can make contact by satellite phone call with any boat in the race as and when necessary.

First, competitors are required that a Satellite Communication System validation call must be placed to the committee prior to on-site registration in Newport. This call is to be placed from the boat, using the satellite phone configured as it will be for the race. The Committee will compare the number of the device making the validation call (caller ID number) to the number entered in the entry system for ‘Satellite phone #1’.

Second, boats when racing shall be ready at all times to receive satellite telephone calls. To verify compliance with this requirement, the Race Committee will randomly select boats and call the provided satellite phone number at any time while racing. If the boat fails to answer or return the call within 6 hours of the initial call, it may be protested by the committee.

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