Presidential International Yacht Races 2025 in Turkey: ORC Rating Across All Events
19 March 2025 - Istanbul, Turkey - The Presidential International Yacht Races, a premier sailing series in Türkiye, will mark its sixth anniversary in 2025. Launched in 2020 by the Istanbul Open Sea Yacht Racing Club under the auspices of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, the event has rapidly become one of the most prestigious regattas in the region. Designed to showcase Türkiye’s maritime excellence on the global stage, the series continues to attract elite sailors and teams worldwide.
A Year-Round Sailing Spectacle in Four Seas
The 2025 edition of the Presidential International Yacht Races will unfold across Türkiye’s iconic sailing venues, spanning four different seas. This year’s program offers various challenges, testing sailors in varying conditions while celebrating the nation’s maritime heritage.
2025 Race Calendar
- April 23 - 25: Çanakkale Cup - Istanbul-Çanakkale - 125 nm
- May 14 - 19: Independence Cup - Istanbul-Samsun - 400 nm
- July 20 - 23: North Cyprus Cup - Türkiye-North Cyprus - 300 nm
- October 29 - November 2: Republic Cup - Istanbul Bosphorus & Princes’ Islands
The Çanakkale Cup consists of a total of three races: one in the Istanbul Strait, one offshore race, and one in the Çanakkale Strait. The special race to be held in the Istanbul Strait on April 23rd, National Sovereignty and Children’s Day, will be open to all sailors, and a special award will be given for this race.
The Independence Cup consists of two races: one offshore race from Istanbul to Samsun and one Istanbul Bosphorus race. The Istanbul – Samsun offshore race will start on May 14, 2025, while the Istanbul Bosphorus race will commence on May 19, 2025. The Istanbul – Samsun offshore race will begin on May 14, 2025, from Anadolu Feneri, where the Bosphorus connects to the Black Sea. The Kurtuluş Cup Bosphorus leg will start on May 19, 2025, off the shores of Dolmabahçe Palace.
The North Cyprus Cup - Muğla – Kyrenia offshore race will start from Marmaris Bay on July 20, 2025. The finish of the Muğla – Kyrenia offshore race will be taken at the finish line to be established off the Kyrenia Harbor.
The Republic Cup consists of one Bosphorus, one geographical and three buoy races. The Bosphorus race is planned for October 29, 2025, one geographical islands course for the Explorer class on November 1, 2025, and three buoy races for the ORC class. The Republic Cup will start with the Bosphorus Firecracker Stage race on October 29.
With each race strategically scheduled throughout the year, teams will have the opportunity to compete in diverse conditions, from the historic waters of Çanakkale to the scenic coasts of North Cyprus.
ORC Rating System: Ensuring Fair Competition
A major highlight of the 2025 Presidential International Yacht Races is the exclusive use of the ORC rating system across all events. The Offshore Racing Congress (ORC) rating ensures fair competition by providing precise handicap calculations, allowing boats of different sizes and designs to compete on an equal footing.
By implementing ORC ratings at all races, the event reinforces its commitment to international standards and attracts a broader range of competitive teams from across the globe. The use of ORC not only enhances the accuracy of results but also strengthens Türkiye’s position as a leading destination for high-level yacht racing.
Join the Action
The Presidential International Yacht Races 2025 promises a year of intense racing, breathtaking scenery, and world-class competition. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a passionate sailing fan, this series offers an unparalleled experience on the water.
For full details on race entries, logistics, and event updates, visit sailturkiye.racing.
