The ferry Island Home honked its way through the middle of the fleet, forcing a few quick tacks among the Vineyard Cup competitors. — Photo by Steve Myrick

The annual Vineyard Cup kicks off Thursday, July 9, at 5:30 pm with a seafood buffet and auction at Tisbury Wharf, along with music by the Beetlebung Steel Band. The annual weekend-long event of boat racing, food, music, and fun is  sponsored by Sail MV, and was created to connect Island youth to their maritime heritage. The weekend continues with the Vineyard Cup Regatta, beginning on Friday, and North Sails Day on Saturday. For a full list of Vineyard Cup events and activities, visit sailmv.org.