Following a successful debut in 2025, the Seychelles Challenge will return for its second year from 4 – 11 July 2026, inviting sailors from around the world to discover the Indian Ocean’s most spectacular cruising grounds in an unforgettable week of competition, camaraderie and adventure.
Hosted in partnership with Tourism Seychelles and World Sport, and supported by Sunsail, the Seychelles Challenge blends exhilarating racing with the laidback rhythm of island life. This unique flotilla-style regatta showcases the untouched beauty of Seychelles’ islands, from the granite peaks of Mahé to the powder-white sands of La Digue.
As exclusive charter partner, Sunsail will once again provide its award-winning fleet of catamarans, offering a choice of skippered or bareboat charters. With expert support never more than four hours away, Sunsail makes the Challenge accessible to everyone, from seasoned sailors to those experiencing their first taste of regatta life. Participants can also enjoy curated excursions to explore the beauty and culture of Seychelles, including private tours, gourmet Creole dining, and opportunities to unwind on the island’s pristine beaches.
The unparalleled beauty of the Seychelles
There are few places on earth that offer such a perfect stage for sailing. Gentle trade winds averaging 10–15 knots and calm, predictable waters create ideal conditions for every level of sailor, from first-timers to seasoned competitors. With short passages between islands, each day brings a fresh horizon to explore, including hidden coves, sheltered anchorages, and bays that feel worlds away from the everyday. Along the way, participants will be surrounded by the archipelago’s unmatched beauty, with sweeping white beaches, lush rainforest-clad peaks, and coral reefs bursting with marine life.
Rory Percival, Business Development Manager UK at Sunsail and The Moorings, said: “We were super excited to be the exclusive charter hosts for the inaugural Seychelles Challenge. I attended as our representative and the organisation from start to finish was immaculate and the destination itself was a Robin Crusoe dream come true as a charter escape. Being part of the inaugural Seychelles Challenge was a dream – perfect sailing, incredible organisation, and unforgettable scenery. For 2026, we’re proud to once again offer sailors the chance to discover Seychelles in true Sunsail style. I certainly look forward to seeing how the event will play out!”
New dates, new horizons
The 2026 edition of the Seychelles Challenge will take place two weeks earlier than last year, delivering gentler trade winds, more sunshine, and ideal sailing conditions. The earlier dates also align with regional public holidays, making the event even more accessible for international crews.
Over seven days and six nights, the fleet will race between pristine anchorages, enjoy locally hosted prize-givings on the beach, and gather for a spectacular closing ceremony at Eden Bleu Hotel. Whether racing hard for line honours or cruising at a relaxed pace, participants will soak up Seychelles’ culture, cuisine, and warm island hospitality.
Participants can either name their team, or the organisers will divide them into teams with experienced skippers, making sure everyone has expert guidance and can experience the race safely.
Justin Clohessy, team member of Bikinis & Bowlines, Seychelles Challenge 2025, said: “We were all very well aware of the Seychelles’ drive to protect their natural assets, which we fully support and admire. This is a spectacular destination. What has been the most amazing is the wonderful sharing of this beautiful part of the world by the locals. We wouldn’t have thought to come here if it wasn’t for this event. It is a beautiful part of the world and we’ve already put our names down for next year!”
Packages from Sunsail
Race in the comfort of Sunsail chartered catamarans, with the option to charter bareboat or with a local skipper.
- OPTION 1 – Race yourself – Bareboat.
- Includes: chartered yacht
- Prices from £5069.00 for 2 – 8 people
- OPTION 2 – Race with the support of a skipper – a fully qualified and professional captain who will be responsible for sailing the yacht for you.
- Includes: chartered yacht, skipper
- Prices from £6189.00 for 2 – 6 people
- OPTION 3 – Spectator Yacht – charter a yacht with option to cruise and spectate where viable, plus attend evening functions.
- Includes: chartered yacht
- Prices from £5069.00 for 2 – 8 people
Register at www.seychelleschallenge.com.
