The WORLDSTAR 2026 Race: Circumnavigate in your Own Boat
For sailors who didn’t think that the OSTAR and the TWOSTAR were sufficient, the Royal Western Yacht Club of England has announced that it is launching the WORLDSTAR race in 2026.
New Round the World Race: WORLDSTAR 2026
As the name suggests, this is an event which encircles the globe and is open to all solo and double handed boats between 35ft and 60ft that have completed a 2000-mile qualification passage in the allotted timeframe. The course is to start from Plymouth Sound National Marine Park, around Antarctica to starboard and return to Plymouth Sound for the finish.
Commodore and Race Director, Chris Arscott said, “As we know, The Royal Western Yacht Club was the very first club to introduce short-handed and fully crewed offshore and oceanic racing. We want to complete the offering by launching this unique and ultimate test of seamanship to complement the OSTAR TWOSTAR and the RB&I, an opportunity for those sailors who want to take on the World in their own boat without the need to spend huge amounts of money.”
The RWYC have developed the WORLDSTAR to appeal to sailors who wish to complete a circumnavigation in their own boat, rating on IRC or non-rated, without the extensive qualification process.
“This event is for the adventurer, for the sailor who aspires to be the ultimate challenge… Short-handed, nonstop, around the world via the three great capes. An event with clear guidelines, an event to facilitate your dream, in the boat you already own!” – Guy Waites
Worldstar 2026 Race: Important Dates
Note of intent to qualify for discounted entry fees — NOW OPEN
1 January 2024 – Qualifying passage period starts
26 November 2025 – Discounted entry fee period ends
26 March 2026 – Net entry fee ends
26 June 2026 – Qualifying passage period ends
26 August 2026 – Submit IRC Certificates
26 August 2026 – Last date for 10% premium entry fee payment – Entry Closed
19 September 2026 – Boats Berthed in Plymouth
26 September 2026 – Event Start
Interested?
For more info on the WORLDSTAR 2026 RACE, and if you are interested in getting involved, visit the Royal Western Yacht Club of England website
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