Sixteen expected for Golden Globe Race

Sixteen skippers are completing their final checks for the 2026-27 Golden Globe Race, with the fourth edition to commence September 6 from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France.

Sailed without GPS or modern electronic navigation aids, the 30,000-nautical-mile race asks competitors to navigate using sextants, compasses, and paper charts as they attempt a solo, non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation. Twenty-nine entries from 12 countries were initially received before the fleet was finalized.

Along the course includes two stations in which competitors are required to check in. Also, the sailors may seek shelter and anchor (using the engine if needed) to make repairs during the race, but may not enter the port and no person may give any materiel assistance at any time during the race.

Across the three previous Golden Globe Race editions, 43 sailors started—and only nine finished.

Details: http://goldengloberace.com/

In 1968, nine started the first solo non-stop sailing race around the World with 29 year old Sir Robin Knox Johnston as the lone finisher. He navigated only with a sextant, paper charts, and an accurate and reliable time piece, and the Golden Globe Race seeks to recreate the challenge.

Competitors must sail in production boats between 32-36 foot overall designed prior to 1988 that have a full-length keel with rudder attached to their trailing edge. Similarly, entrants must sail without modern technology or the benefit of satellite-based navigation aids.

In 2018, 18 started with five finishers for the second edition. When repeated in 2022, there were three finishers from 16 starters. Along the route there were several marks of the course and media requirements. For the fourth edition, after 29 solo sailors from 12 countries initially entered, 16 have fulfilled the requirements to start from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France on September 6, 2026.