The Ocean Race announced on Mar. 18 that St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida, will serve as a departure port for a new transatlantic leg to Cascais, Portugal, during the race’s 15th edition in May 2027.
This marks the first time in the event’s history that Florida’s Gulf Coast will host a race port, connecting two prominent sailing destinations across the Atlantic and drawing international attention to St. Pete-Clearwater.
The stopover is scheduled for May 4-16, 2027 at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club along downtown’s waterfront in partnership with the University of South Florida (USF). The IMOCA fleet will be berthed by USF during this period. 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 in Fort Lauderdale and Miami but never before on its 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… Everyone can expect a memorable stop-over experience.” Commodore Christian Bergstrom of St. Petersburg Yacht Club added: “For more than a century… we are honored to see that legacy continue as St. Petersburg enters a new chapter.”
During the stopover visitors can attend free public events at Ocean Live Park including team boat viewings and dock walks; sailing exhibits; STEM programming; and sustainability showcases focused on ocean conservation.
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 said: “Departing from… St. Pete-Clearwater and arriving in… Cascais is a way to connect two coastal cities with enormous passion for the ocean.”
After leaving Florida teams will cross 4,500 nautical miles to Portugal before continuing their global journey which starts from Alicante in January 2027.
