Rockland — Nearly 60 sailboats and powerboats are taking part in the second annual Penobscot Bay Rendezvous Power and Sail Regatta. The PBR "welcomes the hard-core sailor and the recreational sailor," according to the event website. The PBR is presented by Wayfarer Marine and Lyman-Morse Boatbuilding. The first day of racing kicked off shortly after noon on Friday, Aug. 17 as boats gathered outside Rockland Harbor to compete.

An airshow performed by the Texas Flying Legends preceded the start of the regatta. The antique planes dazzled observers as they performed various tricks against the backdrop of a near-cloudless blue sky.

Conditions were clear and warm as the regatta began. The breeze picked up as the afternoon continued with boats sailing around a course of pre-set markers, competing in one of six divisions that the PBR website states are based on "desired level of intensity."

A party Friday evening at the Pearl was one of several evening events for PBR participants. A barbecue and fireworks Thursday, Aug. 16 at Lyman-Morse in Thomaston welcomed participants, and a surf and turf dinner and gala is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 18 at Wayfarer Marine in Camden. Awards will be presented Sunday, Aug. 19.

Courier Publications reporter Jenna Lookner can be reached at 236-8511 or by email at jlookner@courierpublicationsllc.com

Sailboats compete in Rockland on Friday, Aug. 17. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Spectators were encouraged to watch Friday's portion of the regatta from the Rockland Breakwater. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

True sails outside Rockland on Friday Aug. 17. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

A shot was fired from the race committee boat to signal the start of each division. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Two sailboats enjoy the beautiful day on the bay at the PBR. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Pictured from left are War Bride, Hassebas and Big Dog Party. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

An airshow performed by the Texas Flying Legends dazzled spectators. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

The Heron crew included sailors of all ages. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Frank Simon at the helm of Smitten. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Wind catches the sails of True. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

PBR regatta participants including the crew aboard Smitten, enjoyed beautiful sailing weather on friday Aug. 17 near Rockland Harbor. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Canty (left) and Jessica were both entered in the double hand division. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Wild Rumpus (left) and Tittravate compete in the cruising division. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Acadia sailed in the cruising division. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Two sailboats epitomize grace under sail as they seemingly come within inches of one another during the PBR on Friday, Aug. 17. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Competitors in the J160 division included Atlantic (left) and Heron. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Spectators had a great view of the regatta from the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Boats prepare for the start of the regatta on Friday, Aug. 17. In the foreground with sail number 52411 is Sans Coulottes. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Several boats carrying photographers maneuvered through the race fleet in search of the perfect shot. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Though Fife yacht Belle Aventure did not compete, her crew made the journey from Camden's Wayfarer Marine to Rockland to assist with the regatta. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

The Rockland Breakwater was abuzz with activity as the PBR regatta commenced on Friday, Aug. 17. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

A pair of boats sail near the Rockland Breakwater. Pictured at left is Tittravate. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Crew members aboard Big Dog Party enjoy a front row seat. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Anjacaa is recognizable by her trademark blue hull. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Sailboats navigate the water around the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse on Friday, Aug. 17. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)

Sea Smoke. (Photo by: Jenna Lookner)