Race to the Arctic 2026

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30. Sep 2025

30 September 2025 - Oslo, Norway - In June 2026, a new offshore event will be held along the Norwegian coast, designed to combine shorthanded racing with the experience of sailing through one of the world’s most scenic regions. Race to the Arctic 2026 will use the ORC measurement system and Weather Routing Scoring (WRS) to deliver fair and transparent scoring across a series of five stages.

The regatta will take participants from Lindesnes in southern Norway to Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands – a route of more than 750 nautical miles over 11 days, crossing the Arctic Circle and sailing under the midnight sun.

The event is organized by Shorthanded Sailing Norway (SSN) with support from local clubs and communities along the route.

A Multi-Stage Shorthanded Regatta

The course is divided into five stages, with stopovers in Fedje, Kristiansund, Vega, and Værøy before finishing in Svolvær.

Each stop will include a rest period and opportunities for social gatherings, reflecting the strong community spirit within the shorthanded sailing scene.

The route offers a mix of offshore and coastal sailing, giving participants tactical options to sail inshore or offshore depending on conditions. The timing of the event, from June 25 to July 5, allows for nearly continuous daylight.

A sail along one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. Here from Karlsøyvær north of Bodø towards Kråtindan.
A sail along one of the world’s most spectacular coastlines. Here from Karlsøyvær north of Bodø towards Kråtindan.

Using ORC and WRS

The ORC rule was chosen as the natural basis for the event, being the most widely used and recognized rating system internationally.

The WRS (Weather Routing Scoring) system will be applied to adjust time allowances based on the best available weather models, helping ensure consistent and fair results across all legs.

According to Sigmund Hertzberg, one of the initiators and ORC Double-Handed World Champion, “Using ORC and WRS provides both structure and flexibility. It allows the event to combine proper racing with the exploratory nature of sailing along this coastline.”

Racing and Cruising Divisions

The regatta will feature two divisions:

  • A Racing Division for competitive teams sailing under full ORC WRS scoring.
  • A Cruising Division for crews who wish to follow the route with fewer restrictions and less focus on competition.

This format aims to welcome a broader range of sailors while maintaining a clear racing framework.

Participation and Purpose

More than 50 boats have already expressed interest, primarily from Norway, even before international promotion has begun.

The event may also serve as a model for future multi-stage ORC events, combining structured racing with elements of rally sailing.

Organizers aim to create an experience that balances competition, seamanship, and the opportunity to explore the Norwegian coastline in a safe and organized setting.

Event Overview

  • Dates: June 25 – July 5, 2026
  • Route: Lindesnes – Fedje – Kristiansund – Vega – Værøy – Svolvær
  • Distance: 750+ nautical miles
  • Format: Doublehanded, 5 stages
  • Scoring: ORC WRS
  • Divisions: Racing & Cruising
  • Organizer: Shorthanded Sailing Norway with local clubs
“Our hope is that Race to the Arctic will offer both a competitive and memorable experience,” says Sigmund Hertzberg. “The combination of ORC, WRS, and the Norwegian coastline makes this a natural step forward for shorthanded offshore sailing.”
From south to north – 750 nautical miles of adventure and challenge. Race to the Arctic as AI sees it.
From south to north – 750 nautical miles of adventure and challenge. Race to the Arctic as AI sees it.