Long-time competitors Silvertip return to race for the cup once again.
Captain Blair MacLeod said the event's growth has been pleasing to see.
"We're looking forward to facing old rivals and new challengers before the busy season of charter bookings that lie ahead of us," he said.
"The lure of the Bay of Islands brings our owner back to race each year and we're thrilled to see how popular the region has been with charter guests."
Meanwhile, three sailing and boating clubs in Northland are opening their doors and inviting people of all ages and abilities to come along and get a taste of sailing and boating, all part of the 2017 Volvo Sailing and Boating Week.
The week is a nationwide initiative from Yachting New Zealand to celebrate and showcase the sport.
Starting on January 28, participating clubs are opening their doors and offering activities throughout the week, or on a single day, with the event drawing to a close on February.
Opportunities for people to get involved in a range of sailing and boating activities are on offer at Taipa Sailing Club, Whangarei Cruising Club and Marsden Yacht and Boat Club.
Taipa Sailing Club start the week with an Open day on Saturday, January 28, and people are invited to visit the club and give sailing a go.
The Volvo Sailing 'Have a Go!' trailer will be there so there will be a range of boats available with instructors and other sailors around to show you how it is done, or just take you for a joyride. Lifejackets will be provided.
The trailer moves down to Whangarei Cruising Club's 2017 Club Open Day at their Parua Bay facilities two days later.
This will be relaxed fun day out where you can have a go on any craft (boogie board, Opti, kayak, trailer yacht, paddle board or keel boat).
Marsden Yacht and Boat Club are holding the 2017 Snake Bank Regatta, a sailing and paddling race out to Snake Bank and back, on February 4.
With course options to suit all levels, and a fantastic prize pool that any entrant can win, including a full stand up paddleboard package, this will be a great day for competitors and spectators alike.
Volvo Sailing & Boating Week is designed to attract those completely new to the sport, people looking to get back on the water and those who sail regularly, and these clubs are just some of many sailing and boating clubs across New Zealand getting involved.
The nationwide event, first held in 2014, is expected to see hundreds of people taking part in the sport at open days, have a go sessions and fun events for all the family.
