Entries are now officially closed for the 2026 Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge, and the fleet is set. Eighteen sailors will depart the Opua Cruising Club at midday on 30 May, bound for the Southport Yacht Club on Australia’s Gold Coast, each taking on one of the world’s great solo offshore challenges.
This year’s lineup is as diverse as it is impressive. From seasoned campaigners and past champions to first-time solo racers, the fleet spans a wide range of experience, boats, and motivations. Some of the fastest entries could complete the crossing in as little as four to five days, while others are expected to take ten to twelve, every finisher will be a winner.
A Fleet Defined by Experience, Grit, and Purpose
Among the standout entries is defending champion Malcolm Dickson (Sarau), returning for his fourth Solo Trans-Tasman campaign. At 79, he brings unmatched experience—including a win in the last edition—and remains a serious contender.
Bringing multihull speed to the fleet, Guy Chester’s Crowther trimaran (Oceans Tribute) will be one of the most exciting boats to watch with line honours and the race record clearly in site.
The fleet also features world-class talent such as Sharon Ferris-Choat (Vixen Racing), a two-time Olympian and Volvo Ocean Race veteran, alongside highly experienced offshore sailors like Kevin Le Poidevin (Roaring Forty), whose résumé includes global solo campaigns and more than 13,000 nautical miles non-stop.
There’s no single path to the start line, just a desire (and perhaps a bit of a mad streak) to take on the Tasman alone.
Boats Built for the Challenge
From classic monohulls to high-performance multihulls, the 2026 fleet showcases an incredible range of designs.
- Proven offshore classics like the S&S 34 (sailed by both Samantha McGrath – Star Path and Terry Dunn – Marara) sit alongside modern performance yachts like the Class 40 Vixen Racing.
- Compact challengers like Peter Bourke’s Diablo (8.7m) will go head-to-head with larger, more powerful yachts such as the Dickson 55 Sarau.
- Multihulls add another dimension, with Guy Chester’s Crowther trimaran Oceans Tribute and James Foster’s Mumby 48 catamaran Electron bringing speed—and complexity—to the race.
Each boat reflects the personality and philosophy of its skipper: some built for outright pace, others for reliability and endurance. There will be both line honours and handicap prizes.
The Stories Behind the Sailors
What truly defines this race are the stories behind each competitor.
- Samantha McGrath (Star Path) follows a deep personal calling to the sea, with over 15,000 offshore miles and a passion for solo sailing.
- Glen Jeffery (Wave) returns with multiple Tasman crossings and a lifetime of offshore racing experience.
- Peter Nobbs (Smoko) brings a remarkable solo sailing résumé, including circumnavigations of New Zealand and beyond.
- Guy Chester (Oceans Tribute) has logged over 120,000 nautical miles, including solo circumnavigations—bringing both speed and philosophy to the race.
- Ben Ball (Camellia) marks a personal milestone, celebrating both his and his boat’s 50th year with this long-held ambition.
- Bill Kidman (Pretty Boy Floyd) is set to achieve a lifelong ambition andbrings a a competitive streak honed in a wide range of sailing events.
- Peter Elkington (Pacman) Sailing the proven Young 11 with multiple Sydney to Hobart races completed.
- Richard Grant (Magellan) looking for a new challenge after a successful double-handed Melbourne to Osaka Yacht Race with is daughter.
Others, like Geoff Thorn (Catnip), Richard Raea (Baker Street) and Graeme Francis (Robbery), return to the race with unfinished business—drawn back by the unique pull of the Solo Trans-Tasman Yacht Challenge.
For detailed competitor profiles check out our website – https://www.solo-tasman.co.nz/2026-entrants/
More Than a Race
For many, the Solo Trans-Tasman is not just about results—it’s about the journey.
As one skipper put it, “If you have to ask why, you wouldn’t understand the answer.”
It’s a test of preparation, resilience, and mental strength. A chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with the fundamentals of seamanship. And for all eighteen sailors, it’s an opportunity to write their own chapter in the race’s rich history.
Join the Build-Up in Opua
All boats and skippers will be based in Opua for the two weeks leading up to the start, creating a unique opportunity for supporters and the public to get involved.
There will be a range of social events hosted at the Opua Cruising Club, offering a chance to meet the sailors, hear their stories, and be part of the build-up.
An Open Day at Opua Wharf will be held on Sunday 24 May, where visitors can get up close to the boats, meet the skippers, and experience the atmosphere ahead of departure.
Follow the Journey
From the moment the fleet leaves Opua, the focus shifts to the Tasman Sea—unpredictable, demanding, and unforgettable.
Whether it’s a four-day sprint or a twelve-day endurance test, every skipper will face their own race.
Follow their journeys as they prepare, depart, and take on the challenge of sailing solo across one of the world’s great oceans.
There will be a race tracker page on the website.
Race news and updates on our Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/SoloTransTasmanYachtChallenge
