The iconic Ocean Race is set to make history with a brand-new U.S. stop in its 2027 edition. For the first time, St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida, will serve as a race port, launching an epic transatlantic leg to Cascais, Portugal. This marks a thrilling new chapter in the 54-year legacy of this fully-crewed offshore sailing event.
Florida’s Gulf Coast Joins the Global Sailing Stage
Scheduled from May 4 – 16, 2027, the St. Pete-Clearwater stopover will feature the Ocean Live Park race village at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, right along the downtown waterfront. Visitors will enjoy a front-row experience of the event, including dock walks, team boat viewings, and interactive sailing exhibits. The stopover also partners with the University of South Florida (USF), home to leading marine science programs and ocean research. The IMOCA fleet (60-foot foiling sailboats) will be berthed on the USF waterfront during the stopover.
“The Ocean Race embodies much of what our community already represents: a deep tradition of ocean racing and a strong commitment to ocean science, sustainability, marine innovation, STEM education, and tourism,” said Rob Britts, Stopover Director for St. Pete-Clearwater.
Florida Returns to The Ocean Race Spotlight
Florida has hosted The Ocean Race five times in the past, including Fort Lauderdale (1989-1998) and Miami (2001-2012). This new Gulf Coast chapter highlights St. Pete-Clearwater’s award-winning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and Michelin Guide-rated culinary experiences, making it a perfect destination for the world’s sailing elite.
“Activities on and along our emerald waters are a quintessential experience for our 15+ million annual visitors and locals alike,” said Steve Grimes, Chief Marketing Officer for Visit St. Pete-Clearwater.
A Global Race, A Local Celebration
The Ocean Race is not just about elite sailing; it’s also a platform for ocean sustainability and science education. During the stopover, the public can explore:
- Dock walks and team boat viewings
- Sailing and ocean-themed exhibits
- STEM and ocean science programming
- Sustainability and marine conservation showcases
Through its Racing for the Ocean program, the event promotes ocean health, literacy, and global marine protection initiatives. Partnerships with institutions like USF College of Marine Science ensure that advancements in science and ocean education are highlighted alongside the sport.
From Florida to Portugal
After departing St. Pete-Clearwater, teams will cross 4,500 nautical miles of the Atlantic to Cascais, Portugal, arriving in late May. Cascais, a historic sailing hub just west of Lisbon, will host the fleet before the race continues to its next destinations.
“Departing from St. Pete-Clearwater and arriving in Cascais is a way to connect two coastal cities with enormous passion for the ocean,” said Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race.
The 15th edition of The Ocean Race begins on January 17, 2027, from Alicante, Spain, and includes a record-breaking 14,000 nautical mile opening leg to Auckland, New Zealand. After visiting South America, the new transatlantic leg from Florida to Portugal adds a fresh challenge before the race concludes in the Red Sea at AMAALA.
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