The Peterson Cruising Cup Rally (PCCR) has been bringing BCA members together since 2001–2002, when Lex Peterson began waving at BCA boats heading toward the midsummer rendezvous. Lex was known for sailing his Hobie Cat through anchorages, tapping on hulls, and chatting with likely cruisers.
Back then, BCA cruisers often found themselves gathering naturally in the same anchorages — no docks, no rigid schedules, just boats coming together. Then, the next day, a friendly race would happen. Eventually an award, the Peterson Cup, was needed. After that came potlucks, stories of adventure, and the inevitable towing or repair project. Around the campfire or cockpit, someone would pull out a guitar and a singalong would begin.
And that is how the spirit and structure of the PCCR gradually evolved into what it is today — a blend of cruising, camaraderie, shared experiences, the freedom to participate in one’s own way and a way to reconnect with what matters most — practical skills, good judgement, friendship and a greater respect for the ocean.
The PCCR has always been less about competition and more about community, adventure, and participation. It is about being out on the water, learning from the sea, enjoying the present moment, and supporting one another along the way. Every skipper makes their own decisions, and every skipper can offer leadership, support, or assistance when needed. That is the essence of bluewater cruising and the lessons learned during rally week can be applied anywhere in the world.
Left: Peter McMartin with theme t-shirt; Right: Salish Sea sea life; photos provided by Ken Christie
This year’s rally takes place on August 8-14, starting from Mark Bay, Nanaimo and ending in the vicinity of Port Browning, Pender Island just in time for the BCA August Rendezvous [1]. Unlike traditional yacht club racing from dock to dock, the PCCR is designed to encourage participation, flexibility, and shared experiences. Boats may come and go along the route as schedules allow, and both sail and power vessels are welcome.
The overarching goal is to encourage seamanship, awareness, curiosity, and stewardship.
The waters we sail through are rich with marine life, history, and the enduring presence of coastal communities who have cared for these lands and waters for generations. These days, we are also more aware of changing climates and the increasing influence of media and technology in our lives. Thus the 2026 PCCR theme which embraces all of the above: Sea of Knowledge Above and Below.
Along the way, we hope to include opportunities to learn more about the marine environment on our doorstep. We may invite knowledge keepers and organizations such as Ocean Wise [2] or the Marine Education and Research Society [3] (MERS) to join us or meet up with participants during the event. The ever-popular Sea Creature Bingo Cards may also make a re-appearance. Let us know in the comments what you think about these ideas.
Online registration is recommended to assist with the planning process; a link to the event registration page can be found here [4]. Fees are $10 per participating boat to help cover costs. Please note that as the Peterson Cup Cruising Rally is a Bluewater Cruising Association event, all participants will be required to sign a waiver.
Most importantly, if you are thinking of attending, please come prepared to share stories, food, music, friendship, and a memorable time on the water. If you would like to know more or have any questions please contact Ken Christie [5], the 2026 PCCR organizer.
Featured photo: Left: Clam Bay sunrise with Sea Fever, (Denise Logan); Top right: PCCR 2025 group (Connie Morahan); Middle right: PCCR enjoying the sunset (Kevin Swanson); Bottom right: Shannon and Doran Jones, winners of the Petersen Cup (Connie Morahan)