EXPLORATION & EXTREME SAILING
Exploration sailing opens the door to adventure beyond the horizon. Designed for endurance, safety, and autonomy, these vessels are made for discovering remote coastlines, crossing oceans, and embracing the unknown.
Whether it’s polar expeditions, tropical voyages, or long-distance cruising, exploration sailing offers a unique path for those who seek to combine navigation with discovery. The exploration sailing community is courageous, resourceful, and ready to welcome those who dream big.
Reasons to Start
Exploration sailing is inspiring, challenging, and deeply fulfilling. It also:
- Fuels a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and global awareness.
- Teaches advanced seamanship, navigation, and self-reliance.
- Offers unparalleled experiences with nature and remote cultures.
- Builds resilience, preparation skills, and meaningful personal stories..
How to Start
Getting started doesn’t require a transoceanic yacht. Many start by crewing on long-distance trips, joining offshore training courses, or volunteering on scientific or conservation voyages.
Exploration boats come in all forms, from refitted classics to purpose-built expedition vessels. Register here with the World Sailing Day Organisation and we will connect you with member organisations that support and organise exploratory voyages.
Information and Opportunities
Exploration sailing is supported by a global network of adventurers, sailing schools, and mission-based organisations—some focused on science, conservation, or cultural exchange. Events, talks, and expeditions are regularly organised for experienced sailors and motivated newcomers alike.
See www.worldsailing.com for general sailing information, and check with specialist exploration groups or adventure sailing outfits.
Registered World Sailing SAILOR members gain access to contacts, opportunities, and educational resources in this field.
Call for Award Candidates
Exploration, Extreme, Endurance and Exploration Sailors have their own World Sailing Day Awards category.
This award honours those who use sailing to explore, educate, and expand our understanding of the world—from solo adventurers to scientific expeditions.
We honour the iron men, women and crews !
Support exploration sailing by recognising the individuals and crews who venture far and inspire many.
You can submit your candidate for consideration to World Sailing Day via your club or association under the World Sailing Day Awards. See the award categories, provided on World Sailing Day Awards webpage.
The awards will be presented on 28 May 2026 and submissions close on 31 March 2026.
Tough Gear for Grabs !
Sailing’ s toughest gear is here for you to win !
Each month World Sailing Day gives you the chance to win one of the following prizes by simply registering with us and supporting World Sailing Day. The Sweepstakes are free to enter and when raffles are held (paid tickets) all proceeds go to supporting an Extreme, Endurance or Exploration voyages.
If you are not one of the lucky winners this month, log-in to your account next month and draw another free ticket !
