The best places to watch the Kékszalag (Blue Ribbon sailing race) in Balatonfüred

The best places to watch the Kékszalag (Blue Ribbon) sailing race in Balatonfüred

About the 2024 Kékszalag sailing competition

Lake Balaton has been a paradise for sailing for more than 10, or even 100 years. Already in the 19th century, the competition of sailing yachts started on the Hungarian sea. Around this time, the tradition of the Kékszalag (Blue Ribbon) also began to develop. The first Kékszalag was held precisely in 1934, initially only every two years, and there were also interruptions during the war years. Despite this, it is almost too much to describe, but this year is the 56th time that the legendary sailing race around the lake is organized, for which sailboats come from all over Europe, and not infrequently even from further afield, to compete in Europe's oldest and longest sailing race around the lake.The competitors must complete the 155 km distance Balatonfüred-Balatonkenese-Siófok-Keszthely-Balatonfüred in 48 hours. The competition is usually full of excitement and, more importantly, very spectacular.
 

Where is it worth watching the Kékszalag in Balatonfüred?

I think we can all agree that every race has two highlights - in addition to overtaking and other spontaneous actions - the start and the finish. Since the Rib sailing race starts from Balatonfüred, and the ships and sailboats that have completed the distance return here, it is worth choosing a point to watch the Kékszalag, which has something to do with Balatonfüred. Many people like to watch the events from the port, there are typically huge projectors to monitor the events. If you want to watch the start and finish in a slightly more comfortable environment, we recommend our rooms and suites with a view of Lake Balaton! From the balcony you can also see beyond the Tihany peninsula in sunny weather. The army of white sails in the distance is a breathtaking sight, which you can even enjoy with your champagne breakfast! Take a look at our rooms and suites with a view of the Balaton!

Is it worth watching the Kékszalag from the waters of Lake Balaton?

If you are not a professional sailor but are a sailing enthusiast, you may want to consider watching this prestigious race from the water. The organizers typically launch VIP boats, and there are several other options for renting a sailboat. If you missed all of these options and cannot find a free boat for the duration of the competition, we have an extra tip for you: the scheduled ferry between Szántódrév and Tihany also has a very good view of the Kékszalag, as typically the field is always crowded at this point, even exciting promotions are also visible. If you need help booking a boat, contact our hotel staff!
 

Best vantage points for watching the Kékszalag

The start of the Kékszalag and the finish are definitely worth watching in Balatonfüred, but there are other vantage points on the shores of Lake Balaton that are worth visiting during the day for a good view. For example, looking at it from Tihany Abbey, climbing Badacsony, or even conquering Szigliget Castle, we can see the Kékszalag field passing by.