Bluewater Day comes to Cape Town on 5 January 2027
The event is held in partnership with Balance Catamarans and alongside the World ARC 2026–27 fleet, which will be berthed at the Waterfront during its stopover. Places are limited and advance registration is essential.
Meet sailors 12 months into a circumnavigation
By the time the World ARC fleet reaches Cape Town, its crews will be around a year into their round-the-world voyage. That makes them the best people to ask what you really need to know before you cast off.
Come and hear what they wish they’d known before leaving, what has surprised them along the way, and what actually matters when you’re thousands of miles from home. With the boats right there on the docks, you can see how they’ve set up for life offshore and talk to the crews putting it all into practice.
Step aboard bluewater boats
Weighing up a monohull against a multihull? Explore a selection of both, step aboard a Balance Catamaran, and speak to the people who design, sail and support boats built for long-distance cruising.
What's on the programme
Talks run through the afternoon at Workshop 17, mixing presentations and practical advice with plenty of time to put questions to experienced sailors and industry experts. The programme is still being finalised, but sessions will cover:
- Preparing your boat and crew for long-distance cruising
- Choosing the right boat for your plans
- Bluewater sailing, equipment and maintenance
- The practicalities of life offshore
- First-hand experiences from World ARC participants
Drinks on the docks
As the afternoon winds down, join World ARC participants, speakers and fellow sailors for drinks on the docks. It’s a relaxed way to end the day, ask the questions you didn’t get to earlier, and meet people who share your interest in bluewater sailing.
Event details
Date | Tuesday 5 January 2027 |
Time | 13:30–20:00 |
Venue | Workshop 17 and the docks, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town |
Cost | Free |
Registration | Essential; space is limited |
