Viking Explorers 2026 Departs Canary Islands After Weeks of Preparation, Sets Course for Cape Verde
by Viking Explorers Rally 9 Jan 09:26 GMT
8 December 2025
After weeks of preparation and anticipation, the Viking Explorers fleet successfully departed on the 8th of January, between 09:00 and 12:00 local time, setting course for Mindelo, Cape Verde. The departure followed a two-day delay due to weather conditions, concluding a prolonged period of unsettled weather that affected the Canary Islands throughout recent weeks.
The fleet has been based in the Canary Islands since the beginning of December, during which time crews from across the globe took part in an extensive program of safety briefings, offshore sailing seminars, weather and routing sessions, as well as social events, group dinners, parties, and local excursions. These activities not only ensured a high level of preparedness for the Atlantic passage but also strengthened the sense of community among participants.
"This is exactly what Viking Explorers is about," said one of the event organizers. "Serious preparation, strong seamanship, and a shared experience that brings people together long before the lines are cast off."
This season, the Canary Islands experienced unusually challenging weather, with persistent winds and unstable sea conditions. Rather than rushing the departure, organizers and crews chose patience and safety. In the final days before departure, the marina was alive with activity as crews completed inspections, finalized maintenance, and loaded significant quantities of provisions, carefully stowing food, water, and supplies for the days at sea ahead.
"The waiting was tough, but it was the right call," commented one skipper prior to departure. "Now we're rewarded with proper trade winds and a real ocean passage. The boats are ready, the crews are ready, and the excitement on board is high."
The fleet departed under medium to strong but favorable conditions, with east-northeasterly winds of 15 to 20 knots and some stronger gusts up to 25knots. Initial wave heights reached approximately 3 meters but are already showing a steady decrease as the weather system improves.
"Currently not as much wind as forecasted for us! Sea state calmer than expected once away from Las Palmas", reported S/Y Yanula Blue.
"Wind approx 9to 12 knots ENE. Sea state slight and someone stole the sun", reported S/Y Joyce Ellen
Forecasts predict a fast and exhilarating passage south, with consistent trade winds from the east-northeast averaging 18 to 25 knots along the route.
"This is the kind of sailing many crews dream about," said Carlota Texeira, PR for Viking Explorers. "Strong, stable winds, improving seas, and a clear destination ahead. It's an ideal start to the Atlantic crossing."
The fleet is expected to arrive in Mindelo, on the island of São Vicente, in approximately five days. Viking Explorers staff and local support teams are already in position at the marina, preparing to welcome the fleet upon arrival and support crews as they complete the passage.
This year's Viking Explorers fleet consists of 14 boats, with crews representing, Australia, France, United States of America, Belgium, United Kingdom, Germany, Israel, Italy, Sweden, Singapore and Switzerland, underscoring the international character of the event and its appeal to sailors from around the world.
As the fleet settles into the rhythm of ocean sailing, spirits remain high, and all eyes are now set on a successful landfall in Cape Verde.
Further updates will follow as the Viking Explorers fleet makes its way south.
You can follow the fleet at forecast.predictwind.com/tracking/rally/vikingexplorersrally2026
To know more about the rally visit www.vikingexplorersrally.com