The Ocean Race announced on Mar. 18 that its 15th edition in 2027 will feature a new transatlantic leg, starting from St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida and ending in Cascais, Portugal.
This marks the first time in the race’s history that Florida’s Gulf Coast will serve as a departure port for the event, connecting two renowned sailing destinations across a route of approximately 4,500 nautical miles. The St. Pete-Clearwater stopover is scheduled for May 4 to May 16, with activities centered at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club and involving partnerships with local institutions such as the University of South Florida (USF).
Rob Britts, Stopover Director for St. Pete-Clearwater, said: “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… We’re even more excited about the lasting legacy it can create for our community for years to come.”
Florida has previously hosted The Ocean Race five times—three times in Fort Lauderdale and twice in Miami—but this is its first appearance on the Gulf Coast. Steve Grimes, chief marketing officer for Visit St. Pete-Clearwater said: “It’s an honor to be selected as the North American destination on this prestigious race that encompasses some of the globe’s most iconic coastal communities… Everyone can expect a memorable stop-over experience for The Ocean Race.” Commodore Christian Bergstrom of the St. Petersburg Yacht Club added: “We are honored to see that legacy continue as St. Petersburg enters a new chapter and becomes the North American stopover for The Ocean Race in 2027.”
During its stay in Florida, visitors will have access to public events including team boat viewings and dock walks, sailing exhibits focused on science and sustainability programming at an interactive race village called Ocean Live Park.
Tom Frazer, dean of USF College of Marine Science said: “We’re super excited to welcome The Ocean Race teams to our waterfront campus… Advancements in science, technology and ocean education will be on full display.” Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race stated: “Departing from the shores of St. Pete-Clearwater and arriving in historic sailing waters of Cascais is a way to connect two coastal cities with enormous passion for the ocean.”
Following its U.S.-to-Europe crossing after departing Alicante (Spain) earlier that year—with stops including Auckland (New Zealand), Itajaí (Brazil), then Florida—the race will conclude with sailors competing down through the Red Sea toward AMAALA.
Looking ahead beyond this landmark edition planned for January through June 2027—including related events like The Ocean Race Atlantic debuting summer 2026—organizers emphasize both elite competition among mixed crews aboard IMOCA yachts and ongoing initiatives supporting global ocean health.
