RORC Transatlantic Race 2026: 3,000 Nautical Miles of Pure Adventure
When: 11 January 2026
Where: Marina Lanzarote (Canary Islands) → Antigua (West Indies)
Every January, as the Northern Hemisphere braces for winter, a group of sailors gathers in the sunny Canary Islands for one of the world’s most thrilling ocean challenges: the RORC Transatlantic Race. In 2026, this epic journey will begin in Marina Lanzarote and stretch nearly 3,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic, finishing in the stunning waters of Antigua. It’s a race that tests skill, endurance, and teamwork, a true celebration of human spirit on the high seas. For those who love sailing or just the thrill of adventure, following this race is like being part of a grand story. Even from afar, you can feel the tension of every decision, the excitement of each maneuver, and the courage it takes to face the vast ocean.
The RORC Transatlantic Race is the perfect way for a tightly bonded crew to sharpen their skills and teamwork before the heart of the Caribbean racing season, including the Nelson’s Cup Series and the RORC Caribbean 600 in February 2026. It’s not just a race; it’s a journey that strengthens crews, tests strategies, and builds memories that last a lifetime.
A Storied History
The RORC Transatlantic Race may be a relatively young event, but it has quickly earned legendary status. Since its inception, it has attracted yachts from around the globe, from sleek, high-performance multihulls to beautifully crafted classic vessels. The race is inclusive yet fiercely competitive. Whether you’re a seasoned ocean racer or part of a two-handed crew pushing the limits, the Transatlantic offers challenges for all. Antigua as the finishing line adds a spectacular finale, with its vibrant sailing culture and world-class harbors. The race not only tests boats and crews but also builds lifelong stories and rivalries.
Sailing from Lanzarote to Antigua is a dream for offshore sailors around the world. Few experiences compare to racing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic, along a route that has challenged and inspired generations. Every mile is part of a living tradition, a course that has been etched into the history of ocean racing.
The Challenge: More Than Just Distance
Covering nearly 3,000 nautical miles is no small feat. From the moment the starting gun fires in Lanzarote, crews must navigate shifting winds, rolling swells, and unpredictable weather systems. Every choice matters: a tactical decision to sail a few miles north or south can mean hours gained or lost. Some yachts, particularly high-speed multihulls, can reach Antigua in under a week, while others take closer to two weeks. The true competition lies not just in speed, but in resilience, strategy, and teamwork. Crews must sleep in shifts, manage sails in extreme conditions, and constantly monitor their surroundings. It’s a journey that pushes people to their limits, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
The Transatlantic is as much a test of character as it is of speed. Crews must continuously adapt, making tactical decisions while managing sails, navigating changing conditions, and keeping spirits high through long days and nights at sea. It’s a race that pushes both boat and crew to perform at their absolute best, blending seamanship, strategy, and resilience in one epic challenge.
Past Heroes and Memorable Performances
The Transatlantic has already created a rich tapestry of stories. In recent editions, yachts like Warrior Won and Tschüss 2 have thrilled fans with tactical brilliance and incredible seamanship. Multihulls such as Rayon Vert have amazed spectators with their sheer speed and daring on the open ocean. Records have been broken and legends made. Multihulls have crossed the Atlantic in just over five days, while monohulls have completed the race in just under eight days. Each finish line brings not only victory but also tales of perseverance, creativity, and courage that resonate long after the race ends.
What to Watch in 2026
The 2026 edition promises to be particularly exciting. The fleet is expected to be stronger and more diverse than ever, with entries across multiple classes:
- IRC Monohulls: Classic and performance cruisers that combine speed with tactical depth.
- Multihulls: The fastest yachts on the planet, capable of jaw-dropping Atlantic crossings.
- Performance Cruisers & Class40s: Close racing and high drama, often decided by minutes or seconds.
Fans should pay attention to returning champions and new challengers alike. Every year, crews push the boundaries of technology, navigation, and teamwork, ensuring that the race remains unpredictable and electrifying.
Why You Should Follow the Race
Following the RORC Transatlantic Race is like witnessing a story unfold in real time:
- Unpredictable drama: Watch as leaders emerge, falter, and adapt over thousands of miles of open ocean.
- Human triumph: See sailors push through exhaustion, make split-second decisions, and collaborate in extreme conditions.
- Global competition: From Europe to the Caribbean, the race brings together crews from all corners of the world.
- Spectacular scenery: From Lanzarote’s volcanic shores to Antigua’s turquoise waters, the race is a feast for the senses.
Even if you aren’t aboard a yacht, you can track positions, follow social updates, and immerse yourself in the stories of each crew. It’s a race that captures hearts and imaginations alike.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Predictions
Expect intense competition in all classes. Veterans of the race will bring experience and precision, while newcomers may surprise with daring strategies. Multihulls are likely to set new line honors records, and monohulls will push for IRC glory. Antigua’s finishing line will be a spectacle, with crews celebrated for courage, perseverance, and seamanship. In short, 2026 promises to be a year of unforgettable ocean racing. Whether you are a sailor, a fan, or someone who loves human adventure, the RORC Transatlantic Race is a story you won’t want to miss.
Takeway from Hayenne
The RORC Transatlantic Race 2026 is more than a race, it’s a celebration of skill, courage, and the enduring human desire to explore. From Lanzarote to Antigua, the Atlantic becomes a stage for drama, triumph, and extraordinary human achievement. Follow the race, track the crews, and experience the thrill of nearly 3,000 miles of pure sailing adventure. This is ocean racing at its finest, where stories are written on the waves and heroes are made by the wind. Follow it on https://www.grabmyboat.com.
References (APA)
- Royal Ocean Racing Club. (2026). RORC Transatlantic Race 2026. https://rorc.org/2026-destination-antigua
- GrabMyBoat.Com. (2026) : https://www.grabmyboat.com
