100 days to go until the SB20 Worlds 2025 in Singapore
by SB20 Class 8 Oct 2024 07:31 PDT
18-25 January 2025
SB20 racing in Singapore © Anna Zykova
It feels like just yesterday that we were counting down to the SB20 Worlds in Singapore in February 2021, only to see a global conundrum to force its indefinite postponement.
Fortunately, the SB20 Singapore team have successfully renewed their bid to host the event, bringing the SB20 Worlds back on 18 – 25th January 2025. Now, with just 100 days to go, we are eagerly counting down to what promises to be one of the most spectacular SB20 events in the Asia-Pacific region for the SB20 Class.
Last week, the SB20 Singapore in partnership with ONE°15 Marina, hosted a fundraising gala dinner in support of the 2025 World Championships. The evening saw an impressive turnout with a significant amount raised to help ensure the success of the upcoming event. The overwhelming support from the community not only highlights the enthusiasm for the SB20 Worlds, but also sets a benchmark for other SB20 countries to follow.
The Stunning Venue
As back in 2021, the stunning ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove remains dedicated to hosting the event, providing a luxurious setting for the SB20 World Championships. This state-of-the-art 272-berth marina boasts a well-protected harbour with a full range of amenities, including hotels, shops, bars and restaurants just steps away from ONE15 hotel located right near the dock as well. With its world-class facilities, ONE°15 Marina offers a unique experience for the competitors and visitors who join them, all within a scenic 15-minute drive from the heart of Singapore.
Over the years, ONE°15 Marina has become a favoured destination for the SB20 fleet, consistently delivering top-notch hospitality and seamless event management. In 2025 sailors can equally expect a warm welcome, with special offers and exclusive deals for those traveling to Singapore for the event. Perhaps, the most popular feature among the sailors is the after-sail bar conveniently located right on the pontoon—an ideal spot to unwind with a cold Heineken (official sponsor of the event), while sharing stories from the day's races.
The Local Fleet
The SB20 fleet in Singapore has a strong legacy, with local events often attracting over 20 boats to the starting line. The fleet proudly includes teams from two of the country's top universities - the National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Singapore Management University (SMU) - adding a vibrant dynamic to the competition.
Supported by the Singapore Sailing Federation, SB20 Singapore has become a hub for nurturing young sailing talent, raising the level of competition on the water. The frequent participation of Australian teams also adds to the diversity and challenge of racing in this fleet, making every event an exciting international affair.
And, of course, it's not just about the racing—this fleet knows how to celebrate! Expect intense battles on the water followed by a fantastic atmosphere and lively gatherings ashore.
The Sailing Conditions
Sailing conditions in Singapore have been a subject to many rumours. In reality the Singapore strait offers a unique set of conditions. With its equatorial climate it provides consistent warm temperatures and a mix of challenging conditions. In January you can expect to sail in a T-shirt with 27-31°C and high humidity levels.
The winds are typically influenced by the Northeast Monsoon, bringing moderate to strong breezes ranging from 10 to 20 knots, which can create dynamic racing conditions. The sea state is generally moderate, with occasional choppy waves. The tidal currents can play a significant role in race strategy. With sudden shifts in weather, including brief but intense rain showers, sailors will need to be prepared for a variety of tactical challenges on the water.
The 2025 Entries
With over 50 boats expected to compete, the SB20 Singapore team are already hard at work, welcoming the first boat arrivals. GAC Pindar, the event's logistics partner, together with SB20 Singapore, have arranged subsidized shipping from major European ports, ensuring that all boats arrive in time for the competition.
For those who have shipped their boats early, there is a series of warm-up events on the horizon, including the SB20 Singapore Nationals on December 7-8, 2024, followed by the Asia Pacific Championships and the Asian Grand Slam on January 9-12, 2025.
Several high-profile SB20 teams have already confirmed their participation, including the 2023 World Champion Will Sargent sailing with skipper Paul McCartney on Porco Rosso, as well as the 2024 World Champion Charlotte Borghesi with her team Kidzink. With nearly three months to go, we anticipate more top teams to join this event, brought to life once again through the dedication of the SB20 Singapore association, ONE°15 Marina and Singapore Sailing.
The 2025 SB20 World Championships will be held from January 18-25, 2025, at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore.
For all event details please visit worlds2025.sb20class.org