Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge – Day 2 Update - Hunting for breeze

Peter Nobbs - Smoko - B and G 36 - Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge - June 2026 © Jacob Fewtrell/Insight Media/Insightmedia.co.nz/

The 2026 Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge continues to deliver exactly what makes this race so special – changing conditions, strategic decisions, personal challenges, and a healthy dose of Tasman Sea unpredictability.

After a demanding first 48 hours that saw competitors contend with strong winds and large seas, the fleet is now facing a completely different challenge. Some skippers are reporting wind speeds of just 6 knots, forcing them to hunt for every breath of breeze as they continue their journey toward Australia.

The good news from the latest race communications schedule is that all skippers currently racing are safe and continuing their passage across the Tasman.

While the conditions have changed dramatically, the overall race picture at the front of the fleet remains largely unchanged. "Vixen Racing" continues to lead the monohulls on line honours, maintaining an impressive pace across the Tasman. She's also closing in on the leading multihull Oceans Tribute. On handicap, "Sarau" currently holds the advantage on PHRF, although there is still a long way to go and plenty of racing ahead.

Behind them, "Pacman", "Roaring Forty", and "Wave" are all making strong progress and keeping the pressure on. With lighter and more variable conditions developing, the tactical game is only just beginning and positions remain far from settled.

One of the most remarkable stories of the race so far belongs to Doug Esterman aboard "Fair Seasons". Following the EPIRB activation from Graeme Francis aboard "Robbery", Doug altered course and headed back toward the vessel to stand by and provide assistance if required.

The tracker now shows more than 264 nautical miles separating fleet leader "Vixen Racing" and "Fair Seasons", currently making. It is a significant gap, but one that reflects the extraordinary spirit of offshore sailing, where looking after fellow sailors will always come before racing.

Meanwhile, Graeme Francis and "Robbery" are now safely in Mangonui after a challenging passage. The Race Committee extends its thanks to Maritime NZ, RCCNZ, Coastguard, fellow competitors, and everyone involved in ensuring a safe outcome.

The fleet has also seen one retirement, with "Pretty Boy Floyd" withdrawing from the race. All remaining competitors continue their push across the Tasman.

Race Director Julie Kidman acknowledged that the fleet has faced the challenges expected from a Tasman crossing.

"Only a couple of days in, the race committee knew conditions would be challenging when the decision was made to start the race. At that time there were no weather warnings in force, and forecast winds were around 40-45 knots. Every skipper understood the conditions they were likely to encounter and made their own decision to take on the challenge."

"Some of the fleet has gone from strong winds and big seas to searching for breeze in less than 10 knots. That's offshore racing on the Tasman. Every day brings a new challenge, and that's part of what makes this race such an incredible adventure."

With hundreds of miles still ahead and weather systems continuing to evolve, supporters following the Yellowbrick tracker can expect plenty more twists and turns before the fleet reaches Southport.

YB Tracking: pro.yb.tl/solott26

Website: www.solo-tasman.co.nz