With 2022 seeing a return to normal in the world of regattas and ocean racing following the pandemic, 2023 has been a great year for sailing fans – and there is still much to look forward to in the final months of the year and beyond.
Clipper Round the World Yacht Race
This race, founded in 1996 by Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, began in late summer 2023 and will finish in mid-2024. The event incorporates eight legs, and will feature between 13 to 16 individual races, including 6 ocean crossings.
The first leg is the crossing from the UK to South America, while the final section of the race, known as the Atlantic Homecoming leg, is the journey from the east coast of the USA back to the UK.
Azimuth Challenge
In September, the Azimuth Challenge was held off the coast of North Brittany and incorporated speed runs and a 48-hour race, as well as a tour of the Island of Groix. The event is growing year on year and attracted a significant number of competitors in 2023.
Mini-Transat 2023
Also held in September 2023, the Mini-Transat is an event that takes place every two years. This two-stage race for sailboats in the Mini 6.50 class is held in the Canary Islands and Guadeloupe.
Les Voiles de St Tropez
Taking place from the 30th of September to the 14th of October 2023, seafarers like Oliver Mills-Nanyn know that the Les Voiles de St Tropez is the largest gathering of Maxis yachts in the world. As in 2020, the event is split into two weeks: the first week dedicated to modern sailboats up to a set size, with the second week given over to Maxi yacht racing.
Rolex Middle Sea Race
Starting and finishing in Malta, the Rolex Middle Sea Race will be held this year on the 21st of October. Reputed to be one of the most beautiful circuits in the world, over 100 boats take part in the race annually. The course is 606 nautical miles in length and winds counter-clockwise around Sicily, passing the Stromboli volcano and Aeolian Islands.
Rolex Sydney Hobart
Fast becoming an icon of Australian summer sport, the Rolex Sydney Hobart is due to take place from the 26th to the 31st of December 2023. This regatta is now ranked alongside national events such as the Australian Open and the Melbourne Cup and attracts more media coverage than any other regular annual yachting event in the world.