America's Cup "World Series" regattas return to SF and the Fisherman's Wharf Hostel throws a party!

What better time of year to celebrate than during San Francisco's famously warm (cross your fingers) autumn season? Well in case you needed another reason, the America's Cup "World Series" regattas are returning to the San Francisco Bay in conjunction with Fleet Week from October 2-7.

On Sunday, October 7, the San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf Hostel will join in the festivities with a brunch and watch party. Located on the San Francisco waterfront, in the heart of the America's Cup action, this hostel is well positioned for great views. Enjoy free breakfast fare and get fueled up for a day at the races!

See an army of sails fly across the Bay as some of the most skilled sailors in the world race for the coveted title of challenger. The America's Cup is an international competition that attracts investors and corporate sponsors from all over the world, but lucky for us the races take place entirely en plein air with million-dollar views available for spectators sitting on the grass! The Marina Green, a grassy stretch of open space that runs along the water from Fort Mason to the base of the Golden Gate Bridge, is the central viewing point for the races and it's free to the public barring a few paid-entrance sections. Tickets for these paid entrance sections go on sale September 22; contact the San Francisco Giants ticket office for more information. 

The America's Cup trophy has an interesting history. In 1851, the young New York Yacht Club challenged England's Royal Yacht Squadron in a thrilling showdown of skill, speed, and agility in the Isle of Wight. The trophy, then owned by the British, was transferred to the victorious New York Yacht Club and given the name "America's Cup" after the winning yacht, America. The NYYC remained the stewards of the trophy and the champions of the sailing world for 125 years, the longest winning streak in the history of international sport.

This match is the last of two preliminary tournaments that took place in San Francisco this year; but the city eagerly awaits the final match for the America’s Cup trophy -- and the culmination of a two-year-long build-up -- which will be held in September of 2013. 

All of our hostels in San Francisco and the Marin Headlands Hostel across the Bay will make excellent base camps for spectators hoping to watch these once-in-a-lifetime races. It's like the Olympics have come to San Francisco! And with all the glory and revelry comes large crowds, so be sure to book your stay early.