Island Offshore Race to the Arctic 2026 - Ready for Leg 3
by Race to the Arctic 30 Jun 17:47 BST
26 June - 5 July 2026
The fleet - Island Offshore Race to the Arctic © Race to the Arctic – SailLogic Media
The Island Offshore Race to the Arctic fleet is enjoying a well-earned lay day in Kristiansund today after completing two demanding offshore legs. Tomorrow morning at 10:00, the race resumes with Leg 3 - a 250-nautical-mile challenge north to Sandnessjøen.
The second leg from Fedje to Kristiansund proved to be a true test for the more than 60 double-handed teams. Strong winds, fog, large waves and rain showers made the 214-nautical-mile passage one of the toughest stages of the race so far.
Norwegian Landmark 43 White Shadow, sailed by Maren and Karl Otto Book, claimed Line Honours, crossing the finish line first. However, the international teams once again demonstrated their strength by taking victory on corrected time in all three racing classes.
Among the competitors is American sailing legend Jonathan McKee - Olympic Champion, America's Cup sailor, Volvo Ocean Race veteran and reigning ORC Double-Handed World Champion. Together with Justin Wolfe, he sailed Red Ruby to victory in the Delmar Class on Leg 2.
"It was a tough leg with strong winds, fog, big waves and rain showers. Maintaining concentration for 24 hours in those conditions was a real challenge," said McKee.
Leg 3 Begins Tomorrow
Following today's lay day in Kristiansund, the fleet will start Leg 3 on Wednesday, 1 July, with the first start scheduled for 10:00. The destination is Sandnessjøen, where the crews will arrive after another demanding offshore passage along Norway's spectacular coastline.
One of Europe's Most Spectacular Offshore Races
Race to the Arctic is Norway's largest offshore race for double-handed crews and one of Europe's most spectacular coastal sailing events.
The race covers approximately 750 nautical miles over four legs from Mandal in southern Norway to Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands. With 66 boats on the starting line, the fleet represents several nations competing through some of the world's most breathtaking coastal scenery.