Every September, the Basque city of San Sebastián turns into the world capital of traditional rowing. The Concha Regatta 2025, the most prestigious traineras (traditional Basque rowing boats) competition in Spain and one of the most iconic in Europe, will take place on September 7 and 14 in the famous La Concha Bay. The event draws not only the best clubs from the Basque Country, Cantabria and Galicia, but also thousands of fans, including an increasing number of international visitors.
The calendar
The regatta will begin with qualifying rounds:
- Wednesday, September 3 (6:00 PM): women’s qualifying heats, with Arraun Lagunak automatically qualified as the local club.
- Thursday, September 4 (6:00 PM): men’s qualifying heats, with Donostiarra granted a direct place as the host club.
The two decisive days will follow:
- Sunday, September 7: first leg (11:00 AM women, 12:00 PM men).
- Sunday, September 14: second leg at the same times, when the winners of the Concha Regatta 2025 will be crowned.
Favorites and challengers
In the men’s competition, Bermeo-Urdaibai remains the big favorite after winning the 2024 edition and securing its eighth title. But Hondarribia, Zierbena and Galician club Cabo da Cruz are expected to challenge their dominance.
On the women’s side, Arraun Lagunak are once again the team to beat. The San Sebastián-based crew, winners in 2024, will face tough competition from Orio, Donostiarra and the Galician boats, which have been steadily improving.
A unique maritime spectacle
The Concha Regatta 2025 is unlike most rowing events in Europe. It takes place in La Concha Bay, a natural amphitheater framed by Mount Urgull, Mount Igeldo and Santa Clara Island. Spectators enjoy an exceptional view of the entire race from the beach, the promenade or even balconies overlooking the bay.
For English-speaking readers less familiar with Basque maritime traditions, traineras are long wooden boats originally used for fishing. Each measures about 12 meters, weighs around 200 kilograms, and is rowed by 13 oarsmen (or oarswomen) plus a coxswain. This gives the Concha Regatta a heritage value far beyond its sporting importance.
More than just a race
First held in 1879 for men and in 2008 for women, the Concha Regatta has become a cultural event as much as a sporting competition. The city is draped in the colors of the competing clubs, bars and social clubs overflow with fans, and the atmosphere is festive throughout the two weekends. For visitors from abroad, the regatta is not only about rowing: it’s also about Basque gastronomy, with pintxos (tapas) and cider as essential parts of the experience.
News and updates
- Official presentation: held on August 29, confirming the participation of the leading clubs from the ACT League (men) and the Euskotren League (women).
- Unique women’s format: in 2025, several local clubs from San Sebastián will have to compete in the qualifying heats, ending the usual automatic host qualification.
- Preparatory event: on July 12, the Fabrika Regatta took place in the same bay, serving as a warm-up for September.
Economic and cultural impact
The Concha Regatta 2025 also has a major economic impact. Hotels and restaurants in San Sebastián are fully booked, and the event attracts many international tourists, especially from France and increasingly from the UK and the US. For the city, already renowned for its International Film Festival and Michelin-starred cuisine, the regatta adds another dimension to its global profile.
Conclusion
The Concha Regatta 2025 promises excitement, rivalry and tradition in one of Europe’s most beautiful bays. With strong favorites and ambitious challengers, San Sebastián is set to host a spectacular event. For English-speaking visitors, it is a unique chance to discover a living maritime tradition and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the Basque Country, where sport and culture come together in perfect harmony.
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