Treanor and Smith Enter 2027 RORC Caribbean 600
The 18th edition of the offshore race will begin in Antigua on 22 February 2027.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Cruises
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John Treanor and Karl Smith have registered yachts for the 2027 RORC Caribbean 600, an offshore contest scheduled to start in Antigua on 22 February 2027. This upcoming event marks the 18th edition of the 600-nautical-mile race through the Caribbean.
Why it matters
The race serves as a high-profile test of endurance and navigation for competitive sailing teams across the region. Participants navigate a course that winds around 11 Caribbean islands, utilizing IRC and MOCRA handicap systems to determine standings.
The offshore course covers 600 nautical miles, passing by 11 Caribbean islands. Competing vessels include the yacht Cristina and the Class40 Racing to End Parkinson's.
The players
John Treanor
He is a competitive yachtsman who has secured multiple class victories in Caribbean offshore racing.
Karl Smith
He is an active sailor and entrant in global racing circuits including the upcoming Global Solo Challenge.
The details
John Treanor has entered the yacht Cristina, which previously won its class in both the 2018 and 2025 iterations of the event. Meanwhile, Karl Smith is set to compete with the Class40 yacht Racing to End Parkinson's before moving on to the 2027 Global Solo Challenge.
Timeline
January 2027: Karl Smith and David Rowen compete in the RORC Transatlantic Race.
16-19 February 2027: Antigua hosts the RORC Nelson's Cup Series.
22 February 2027: The RORC Caribbean 600 officially begins in Antigua.
Travel Outlook
The race is part of a broader cycle of high-end international sailing events that define seasonal tourism for maritime hubs like Antigua. It follows the precedent set by the 2026 RORC Round Britain and Ireland Race in maintaining a rigorous global circuit for competitive yachts.
Travelers and sailing enthusiasts planning to attend should secure accommodations in Antigua well before the mid-February rush for the Nelson's Cup Series. Monitoring the official entry list is essential for those tracking specific teams or yacht models as the event date approaches.
The takeaway
Competitive sailing events require significant logistical preparation months in advance of the race start. Aspiring offshore competitors should look to established events like the Caribbean 600 as a benchmark for training and vessel performance.
What happens next
The RORC Nelson's Cup Series is scheduled to take place in Antigua from 16-19 February 2027, followed by the main RORC Caribbean 600 race start on 22 February 2027.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming international maritime events, visit the Cruises section.
Live Poll
Would you consider participating in a major offshore sailing race if you had the opportunity?
