After weeks of preparation—and a healthy dose of patience—the Viking Explorers 2026 fleet slipped its lines in the Canary Islands on January 8, departing between 0900 and 1200 local time and turning bows south toward Mindelo, Cape Verde. A two-day weather delay proved the final hurdle after an extended spell of unsettled conditions across the islands, but as the fleet cleared the breakwaters, it did so under improving skies and with the promise of classic trade-wind sailing ahead.
The Canaries have been home base for the fleet since early December, during which time crews from around the world immersed themselves in an intensive program of safety briefings, offshore sailing seminars, weather and routing sessions, and—true to form—plenty of social gatherings, shared meals, and island explorations. The result was a fleet not only well prepared for an Atlantic leg, but also closely bonded before the first mile was logged.
“This is exactly what Viking Explorers is about—serious preparation, strong seamanship, and a shared experience that begins long before the lines are cast off,” noted one of the organizers.
This season’s weather in the Canary Islands tested everyone’s resolve, with persistent winds and unstable sea states making a timely departure impossible. Rather than rush, organizers and crews opted for caution. In the final days, marinas buzzed with last-minute inspections, maintenance checks, and the careful loading and stowage of provisions for the passage south.
“The waiting was tough, but it was the right call,” said one skipper before departure. “Now we’re rewarded with proper trade winds and a real ocean passage. The boats are ready, the crews are ready, and the excitement on board is high.”
The fleet departed in favorable conditions, with east-northeasterly winds of 15–20 knots and occasional gusts to 25 knots. Initial seas around three meters were already moderating as the weather system improved.
“Currently not as much wind as forecasted for us! Sea state calmer than expected once away from Las Palmas,” reported S/Y Yanula Blue.
“Wind approx 9–12 knots ENE. Sea state slight and someone stole the sun,” added S/Y Joyce Ellen.
Forecasts suggest a fast and enjoyable run south, with consistent ENE trade winds averaging 18–25 knots along the route. “This is the kind of sailing many crews dream about,” said Carlota Teixeira, PR for Viking Explorers. “Strong, stable winds, improving seas, and a clear destination ahead—it’s an ideal start to the Atlantic crossing.”
The 14-boat fleet is expected to make landfall in Mindelo, São Vicente, in about five days, where Viking Explorers staff and local support teams are already in place to welcome the crews and assist on arrival. This year’s rally brings together sailors from Australia, France, the United States, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Germany, Israel, Italy, Sweden, Singapore, and Switzerland—underscoring the truly international spirit of the event.
As the fleet settles into the rhythm of ocean miles, spirits remain high and attention turns firmly toward Cape Verde. Further updates will follow as Viking Explorers 2026 continues south.
Follow the fleet here:
https://forecast.predictwind.com/tracking/rally/vikingexplorersrally2026/
Learn more about the rally:
https://www.vikingexplorersrally.com/
