RORC Transatlantic Race 2026 - Preview: 3,000 miles, One Epic Challenge

The RORC Transatlantic Race offers a powerful mix of adventure, challenge, and competitive spirit © Sailing Energy / Calero Marinas

The RORC Transatlantic Race in association with the International Maxi Association and Yacht Club de France will start from Marina Lanzarote on 11th January 2026.

The 3000-mile race will once again set sail from Calero Marinas Marina Lanzarote in the Canary Islands before charting a new course west to a spectacular finish in Antigua, West Indies.

A Legendary Route - Crossing the Atlantic from Lanzarote to Antigua is on the bucket list of many offshore sailors. Few opportunities exist to race 3,000 miles on a racecourse etched in history across the centuries.

Diverse Challenges - Experience a test of endurance, seamanship and navigation in the deep ocean. With constant adaption for the crew and boat to achieve the best performance.

Global Competition - Join an international fleet of seasoned offshore racers and ambitious double-handed crews alike. Measuring yourself against the best, builds reputation and experience.

"A tradewind race in January across the Atlantic is very special for any navigator because it is always challenging; you have to adapt and use all your knowledge,' Juan Vila, navigator on Lucky, Juan K Maxi 88 - photo © James Mitchell / RORC

Highly Regarded by the Racing Community - Organised by RORC, the world's premier offshore racing club. The race is run to strict safety, measurement, and racing rules (IRC), giving everyone a level playing field.

Advancement & Exposure - Great for accruing IRC season points and building offshore miles and experience. Race fans worldwide follow the action through RORC Media's global reach.

Full Support & Infrastructure - From skipper's briefings and weather briefings, to safety compliance, navigation tools, tracking, and shore-based media & logistics support.

'It was amazing sailing. The whole race was such an incredible experience. It's an experience that's hard to put into words,' Christian Zugel, on winning the 2025 race under IRC with Volvo 70 Tschüss 2 - photo © James Mitchell / RORC

Epic Memories - Sunrise and sunset over open ocean, marine life sightings, expansive skies, and star-studded night racing. Finishing the RORC Transatlantic Race leaves competitors with stories to last a lifetime.

Onwards & Upwards - The RORC Transatlantic Race is the ideal springboard to sharpen a tight-knit crew ahead of the Caribbean season, including the Nelson's Cup Series and the RORC Caribbean 600 in February 2026.

For online entry and more information: rorctransatlantic.rorc.org.