Viking Explorers Rally 2026 Departure Rescheduled to 8 January Due to Weather Conditions

Viking Explorers Rally 2026 Weather Briefing in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria © Viking Explorers

The organizers of the Viking Explorers Rally 2026, today announce that the official departure from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria has been rescheduled to the morning of Thursday, 8 January, following careful review of recent and forecasted adverse weather conditions across the Canary Islands archipelago.

Originally scheduled to set sail on the 6th of January, the rally’s departure timing was evaluated during the skippers’ briefing, held in consultation with all participating captains and the Viking Explorers team. In a demonstration of prudent seamanship and shared responsibility, the fleet reached unanimous agreement to postpone departure in the interest of safety, crew wellbeing, and optimal routing for the Atlantic crossing. This consensus-based approach reflects the rally’s commitment to collective decision-making and respect for the experience and judgment of participating skippers.

Over the past days, the Canary Islands have been affected by significant weather systems, including Storm Emilia and more recently Storm Francis, bringing strong winds, unsettled seas, and unsettled atmospheric conditions across the departure zone. In light of this, the rally’s safety-centric framework took precedence, allowing additional time for favorable conditions to develop before departure.

The Viking Explorers Rally is internationally recognized for its combination of camaraderie, expert support, and emphasis on safe, responsibly conducted ocean passages. Unlike larger commercial events, the rally is designed as an exclusive and close-knit fleet, limited to a maximum of 25 boats, with meticulous preparation and safety procedures built into every stage of the journey. Participants benefit from thorough pre-departure seminars, weather briefings, and ongoing coordination throughout the crossing.

“We’ve always emphasized safety first — for our crews, their yachts, and the wider maritime environment,” said managing director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs. "Postponing the departure by two days was a decision made together with the skippers after assessing the latest weather information. This collaborative choice underscores the culture of seamanship, mutual support, and professionalism that defines the Viking Explorers Rally.”

The rally itinerary will remain unchanged, with the fleet being ready in Las Palmas before departing toward Marina Mindelo in Cape Verde and, ultimately, across the Atlantic to Port Louis Marina in Grenada. Organizers continue to maintain close monitoring of meteorological updates and will provide any further advisories should conditions warrant additional adjustments.

About Viking Explorers Rally

Since its start in 2018, the Viking Explorers Rally has become a hallmark event for blue-water cruisers seeking an unforgettable Atlantic sailing experience. Known for its focus on camaraderie, safety, and expert support, the rally brings together a global community of sailors for a unique journey spanning thousands of nautical miles, professional guidance, and a shared spirit of adventure.

For more information, visit www.vikingexplorersrally.com