During the sailing season regattas are almost weekly events on the Alster lake, also called the "pond" or the "stream". Starting and finishing lines at the NRV Clubhouse have now become more of an exception, with up-and-down races on changing courses now being the rule. Spectators on the lake banks can use the position of the committee boat to get their bearings.

On downwind courses when spinnakers swell, the picturesque Alster Lake becomes a masterpiece of advertising for Hamburg. In a strong wind, the Dragon fleet supplies some unforgettable images. Some real nice pictures are created when throngs of boats leave from and return to their berths - as well as all year round when the NRV Youngsters are sailing their Optimist Dinghies.