Argomenti trattati
On January 18, 2026, the Oyster World Rally 2026-27 began its journey from the scenic shores of Antigua. This event marks the fifth edition of a fully-supported circumnavigation. A fleet of 23 Oyster yachts from eight nationalities will embark on an extraordinary adventure covering 27,000 nautical miles over the next 16 months.
The fleet includes yachts ranging from 50 to 90 feet, poised to explore some of the world’s most stunning cruising grounds. The carefully planned route takes advantage of favorable global weather patterns, ensuring optimal experiences at each stop for the sailors.
The facts
The departure from Fort Charlotte was a vibrant celebration of Antigua’s culture. The Governor General of Antigua, along with Oyster’s leadership and honored guests, witnessed a lively send-off featuring traditional dances and music, creating an atmosphere of excitement.
According to Stefan Zimmermann Zschocke, CEO of Oyster Yachts, the rally transcends a typical sailing event. It represents a celebration of community, craftsmanship, and a shared passion for bluewater sailing. This event aims to strengthen connections among Oyster owners worldwide, underscoring the brand’s commitment to supporting its community throughout this journey.
Join the journey
This year’s event features yachts owned by sailors from diverse backgrounds, including USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, Spain, Australia, Netherlands, and Belgium. Among the participating vessels are 15 new generation models, including one Oyster 495, four Oyster 565s, seven Oyster 595s, two Oyster 675s, and one Oyster 885, showcasing the latest in yacht design and technology.
Unwavering support for sailors
A defining feature of the Oyster World Rally is the extensive support provided to participants. From selecting their ideal vessel to final preparations before departure, the Oyster team ensures that all owners are well-trained and ready for the adventure ahead. This comprehensive training program is tailored specifically for Rally crews to enhance their sailing skills.
Once the journey begins, the fleet benefits from the expertise of Oyster’s Technical and Logistics teams. Positioned strategically along the route, these professionals manage maintenance, spare parts, and logistical planning, allowing sailors to focus on the joys of sailing and discovering new horizons.
A winning legacy
Prior to the Rally, several yachts participated in the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) and ARC+ events, showcasing their capabilities in offshore sailing. The Oyster brand achieved notable success, securing the top three positions in Cruising Class B. The Oyster 565 Odisea, Oyster 595 Alpenglow, and Oyster 595 Carina finished first, second, and third, completing the race within just 16 hours of each other, demonstrating exceptional design and reliability.
A personal journey for leadership
For Richard Hadida, Owner and Chairman of Oyster Yachts, this edition of the Rally is significant as he joins the fleet with his family aboard the flagship Oyster 885 Lush. This marks a pivotal chapter in his life, as he experiences the adventure and camaraderie that define the journeys of many Oyster owners.
Living aboard with his wife, Ali, who is new to sailing, and their two-year-old son, Harry, Hadida’s journey is both professional and personal. He reflects on his lifelong dream of sailing around the world and expresses excitement for the unique experiences ahead. “For the next 16 months, Lush will be my life,” he shares, emphasizing the profound freedom and adventure that comes from living at sea.
The fleet includes yachts ranging from 50 to 90 feet, poised to explore some of the world’s most stunning cruising grounds. The carefully planned route takes advantage of favorable global weather patterns, ensuring optimal experiences at each stop for the sailors.0