The countdown has officially begun!

Entries are now open for the 2026 Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge, and the fleet is already taking shape with eight confirmed entrants, evenly split between New Zealand and Australia. For the first time in years, we’re seeing a truly competitive trans-Tasman field, with skilled offshore sailors from both sides of the ditch preparing to take on this iconic solo challenge.

Among the entries is an exciting multihull, and while none of the current entrants have raced this event before, each one brings a wealth of offshore sailing experience to the race. These are seasoned skippers with thousands of sea miles under their belts, ready to write their own chapter in Solo Trans-Tasman history.

And the interest doesn’t stop there, we’re currently talking with at least ten more skippers considering entry, including some Solo Trans-Tasman veterans eager to return for another shot at the Tasman. This race has always drawn a unique mix of first-time entrants and returning heroes, and 2026 looks set to continue that tradition.

Dark and Stormy

Feeling the Pull?

If you’ve ever dreamed of crossing the Tasman solo or are sitting on the fence, now’s the time to jump in. Entries close 25 October 2025, and with the buzz already building, this is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting fleet we’ve seen in years.

The race departs from Opua, Bay of Islands, New Zealand, on 30 May 2026, and finishes in Southport, Queensland. It’s more than just a race; it’s a personal challenge, an epic adventure, and a legendary rite of passage for solo sailors.

What You Need to Know:

  • Entries are now open
  • Eight skippers confirmed – 4 from NZ, 4 from Australia
  • One multihull entered
  • None are previous race finishers – all are seasoned offshore sailors
  • More than ten additional skippers are actively considering entering
  • Entry deadline: 25 October 2025

Whether you’re seriously planning your campaign or just starting to explore the possibility — we encourage you to get your entry in early. This gives you more time to plan, prepare, and be part of the exciting build-up over the next 10 months.

Join the legacy. Sail the Tasman. Race solo.

We’ll see you on the start line!