This year marks the 56th edition of the competition, which will be held on the waters of Lake Balaton, starting on 18th July in Balatonfüred. Given the heat, you may well wonder where’s the best spot watch to ensure the best experience – well, there are several options worth knowing.

There are several designated viewing spots according to the race route where spectators can get a great views of sailing action. These locations are marked on the official race map and offer a variety of great vantage points, from shorelines to elevated viewing platforms - below are other options for you to consider too. As you’d expect, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot.

Watch the Blue Ribbon Race from the Waters of Lake Balaton

Even if you are not a professional sailor but are an enthusiast, you might like to watching this prestigious race from the water. The organisers arrange VIP boats, and there are several options for renting various sizes of sailboats.

Here's an extra tip: the scheduled ferry between Szántódrév and Tihany offers excellent views of the Kékszalag. This area typically sees a dense concentration of boats, making it a lively spot to witness the race action.

Note that there are specific regulations in place for spectator boats to ensure the safety of onlookers and participants alike.

Best Places to Enjoy the Blue Ribbon Race in Balatonfüred

Every race has its highlights, particularly the start and finish. Since the race begins and ends in Balatonfüred, a great option is to find an observation point in this lovely town. For instance, many spectators like to feel part of the action in the harbour, where large screens are set-up to follow the race.

Best Vantage Points around Balaton to See the Blue Ribbon Race

While the start and finish of the Kékszalag in Balatonfüred are undoubtedly highlights, there are other fantastic vantage points along the shores of Lake Balaton.

Depending on your preferences, you can consider viewing the race from Tihany Abbey, from the heights of Badacsony Hill, or even from the historic Szigliget Castle - from all those spots you can well observe this Balaton sailboat festival.

Blue Ribbon Sailing Regatta Rules the Waves at Balaton

It’s good to know that Balaton has been a haven for sailing for over a century, as early as the 19th century yacht races began on the ‘Hungarian sea’.

It was during this time that the Blue Ribbon tradition began to take shape. The inaugural Kékszalag was held in 1934 and was initially a biennial event, with interruptions during the war years.

Despite these disruptions, this year sees the 56th edition of this legendary race, attracting sailboats from all over Europe and beyond.

The Blue Ribbon is actually Europe's oldest and longest lake race, covering a distance of 155 km from Balatonfüred to Balatonkenese, Siófok, Keszthely, and back to Balatonfüred, all to be completed within 48 hours.

The event is renowned for its excitement, as the Blue Ribbon's course is the longest among the main European round the lake competitions and nowadays has also the largest fleet competing.

This special race attracts a diverse range of boats and teams from around the globe. Participants include top professional, amateur sailors, and everyone in between. Also adding to the spectacle, the Blue Ribbon is open to many classes of sailboats, including monohulls, multihulls, and keelboats. All in all it’s an amazing sight well worth seeing from your preferred vantage spot.

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