The Ocean Race Europe to Make Stop in Portsmouth in Summer 2025
The Ocean Race Europe is set to sail into Portsmouth during the summer of 2025 as part of its six-stopover itinerary. This offshore sailing race, featuring the foiling IMOCA class, is a branch of The Ocean Race, a renowned fully-crewed offshore race first held in 1973. Portsmouth has a rich history with the event, having served as both a start and finish port in the past.
The race will kick off from Kiel, Germany on August 10, 2025, with the fleet of mixed male and female crews navigating through the Baltic Sea, North Sea, and English Channel before arriving in Portsmouth around August 14-15. A public area known as Ocean Live Park will be set up at Gunwharf Quays, offering family activities, educational ocean health initiatives, and a chance to engage with the participating sailors.
During the Portsmouth stopover, sailors will be involved in collecting ocean data and water samples for scientific research. The onboard science projects aim to contribute to the scientific community’s understanding of ocean health and meteorology. Portsmouth City Council leader Steve Pitt expressed excitement over the event, highlighting the city’s commitment to sustainability and maintaining a healthy ocean.
Notable UK sailors, such as Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and Tracy Edwards, have made significant contributions to The Ocean Race, further solidifying Portsmouth’s connection to the event. The upcoming edition of The Ocean Race Europe in 2025 will showcase the cutting-edge technology of foiling IMOCA boats and raise awareness about ocean conservation issues.
In addition to Portsmouth, confirmed stopovers for The Ocean Race Europe include Cartagena, Spain, and Genova, Italy. The full race route will be announced soon. Following The Ocean Race Europe in August/September 2025, The Ocean Race Atlantic: New York to Barcelona will take place in September 2026, leading up to the next edition of The Ocean Race around the world in January 2027.
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Luca Moretti, an accomplished sailor and marine journalist from Genoa, Italy, has a lifelong passion for the sea that has defined his career. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Genoa, Luca is celebrated for his vivid and insightful storytelling. His work captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime traditions of Europe, making him a well-respected voice in the sailing community. When he’s not writing, Luca can be found exploring the Mediterranean’s picturesque coastlines and competing in regattas, always seeking new adventures on the open water.