RORC Caribbean 600: Trade Winds and Tactical Racing Await in 2026

The 17th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600, a 600-mile offshore race around 11 Caribbean islands, is set to initiate on Monday, February 23, 2026, starting and finishing in Antigua. Race Director Chris Jackson predicts consistent trade wind conditions for the race.

Reliable Racing Conditions

“The Caribbean delivers some of its most reliable and competitive racing conditions of the year,” says Chris Jackson¹. “The trade winds typically blowing in the 15 to 25 knot range are expected, giving consistent pressure across the course and rewarding well-prepared teams with tactical, high-performance sailing. Sea states are generally moderate, with manageable swell offshore and flatter water in the lee of the islands. The combination of weather, sea state, islands and corners produces fast sailing with constant tactical choices.”

Expert Insights from Brian Thompson

Multiple world record holder Brian Thompson, a veteran of 10 RORC Caribbean 600 races, including a multihull race record in 2022 aboard Jason Carroll’s MOD70 Argo, shares key strategies for success¹. He emphasizes managing pressure and positioning rather than taking unnecessary risks.

• The Start: Thompson advises against overcommitting to a risky port flyer, prioritizing clear air.
• Barbuda: Subtle bends around Barbuda require attention to wind shifts, with potential for convergence lines.
• Squalls near Nevis: Jibing away from or using the edge of squalls can provide shifts and pressure, but requires careful execution.
• Navigating the Leeward Islands: Expect 20-degree shifts and sudden accelerations around Nevis, St Kitts, Saba and St Martin.
• Guadeloupe: Approaching Guadeloupe requires careful consideration of Katabatic winds and potential sea breezes.

Thompson’s overarching advice is to prioritize boat and crew safety, stay hydrated, rest when possible, and sail in the best available pressure¹.

Preparation and Strategy for Sedem

RORC Commodore Deb Fish will be racing aboard Astrid de Vin and Roeland Franssens’ Pegasus 50 Sedem, focusing on a thorough preparation process¹. This includes removing cruising kit, reviewing the Special Regulations, and familiarizing the crew with all systems. Fish and her co-owners have studied past races and even anchored in the lee of Guadeloupe to analyze conditions.

The RORC Nelson’s Cup Series

For teams preparing for the Caribbean racing season, the RORC Nelson’s Cup Series (February 17-20, 2026) offers a valuable warm-up¹. Organized by the Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) in association with the Antigua Yacht Club, the series combines inshore and coastal races, culminating in the Antigua 360° Race.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 RORC Caribbean 600 promises a challenging and rewarding race for competitors. With live satellite tracking and regular updates available on the official website and RORC social media channels, fans can follow the action as it unfolds.