The “400 Islands Race” becomes the “Tanis von der Mosel Race”

Tanis von der Mosel Race: 700nm, once around Denmark © Kieler Yacht Club

700 nautical miles, once around Denmark, start and finish in Kiel: The new offshore format "Tanis von der Mosel Race" will be launched in 2026 - and two developments show that the ambitious project strikes a chord with the scene.

1. Sponsorship provides momentum - and a new name

   With Ben Tanis' law firm specializing in yacht law, the organizers have a committed partner at their side. The sponsorship not only provides planning security, but also a name change: the "400 Islands Race" becomes the "Tanis von der Mosel Race."

   "I am proud and grateful to be able to help make this new race format on the Baltic Sea possible. Many great people have been working on this project for a long time, and now it's finally getting under way. As a part of the European water sports industry - it's a great feeling to be part of this race as well!" says Ben Tanis.

2. The regatta officially opens: announcement online, registration now possible

   The Notice of Race has been published and the registration portal on Manage2Sail is now open. Even before the announcement, numerous teams had already signaled their interest. "The first official registrations have already been received - including well-known names from the offshore scene, which gives us a lot of encouragement that we have obviously met the needs of the scene," emphasizes Ecki von der Mosel, the initiator of the race.

"After the Middle Sea Race 2024 and the Fastnet Race 2025, we are looking forward to a similar challenge on our own doorstep," says Lars Hückstädt, who will be at the start with the X-Day. "This 700 NM race is a real challenge, as the X-Day is optimized for inshore racing. That's why a high level of seamanship and team spirit is required of us. Above all, the demanding navigation between the Danish islands will be a highlight," adds Hückstädt.

Thomas Reinecke, who has spent many years competing in long offshore regattas with his Edelweiß and will be participating in next year's "Tanis von der Mosel Race" with his new boat, a JND39 named Saukra, adds, "We are very excited about the new format. After the North Sea Week with Skagen, this will be the second long-distance race for the new boat, covering another 200 miles. The arrival just before Kieler Woche is also a real selling point."

More than just sailing: social media challenge planned

The Tanis von der Mosel Race also aims to impress digitally. In addition to the classic scoring system, there will be a special award for the best social media coverage.

"Offshore racing provides great stories - we want to make them visible," says Ecki von der Mosel, the regatta's creator. "The community thrives on pictures, videos, and first-hand impressions." The Tanis von der Mosel Race is relying on the support of the Liquid Words agency for social media.

The race will start on Saturday, 13th June, 2026. Those who are making good progress will be back in Kiel on the 17th - just in time for the start of Kieler Woche.

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