The Viking Explorers 2025 full report

Media Viking Explorers
3 days ago
7 min read

The 8th Edition of the Viking Explorers Rally kicked off at Marina Las Palmas, Canary Islands

As we are getting ready for the next edition, with an almost fully booked rally, we are proud to give you an extended feedback of the VE2025.

The Viking Explorers Rally started its 8th edition on Sunday, December 08, 2024, in Marina Las Palmas. Since its start back in 2018, the rally has traditionally begun on the second Sunday of December with a blend of seminars and social events.

As usual, the rally was already fully booked with 25 boats early in the year, but after some cancellations and changes the sign up for this year closed with an international fleet of 22 boats, ranging in size from 40 to 66 feet. A diverse crew of 84 sailors representing 22 countries, including the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Portugal, Sweden, United Kingdom, Poland, Philippines, Belgium, Greece, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Sweden, United States, Italy, Canada, Norway, Denmark, Ireland and Lithuania, gathered in the Conference Hall at Club Marítimo Varadero in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands.

Managing Director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs officially welcomed the participants, inviting each crew to take the stage and introduce themselves to their fellow sailors. Many had already become acquainted through the rally’s virtual “Online Get-togethers” held in the months leading up to the event.

The introductions were lively and emotional, setting a warm tone for the rally. Carlota Texeira Saavedra, PR and Viking Explorers Marketing Manager, handed out the Welcome Packs to the crews. Mareike Derks from Sevenstar Yacht Transport also extended a welcome on behalf of the company.

The first seminar, The Safety Seminar “What If,” focused on safety and marked the beginning of a series of informative sessions planned for the following days. This important seminar is based, not only on the World Sailing Offshore Regulations, but also on the information obtained from other sailors throughout the years. Other seminars will include Provisioning, Weather and Satellite Communications, among others.

After a break, participants gathered for the official Viking Explorers family photo. The group spirit was already evident, as sailors mingled with a shared goal: crossing the Atlantic together in a safe and closely-knit fleet.

Over the next two weeks, participants would enjoy a mix of seminars, social gatherings, dinners, and spontaneous sundowners —like the one that emerged after the first day of seminars on Sunday, sponsored by Sevenstar Yacht Transport at the famous Sailor's bar.

Following this two-week program, participants took a Christmas break before reconvening on January 4, 2025, for the important Skippers’ Briefing that would gather all captains and first mates to discuss the route, weather updates, and marina approach procedures. After deliberation, the fleet unanimously decided to depart on January 6th, between 09:00 and 12:00 UTC, as scheduled.

The Viking Explorers Rally 2025, on their way across the Atlantic...destination Mindelo

The fleet departed as scheduled, on January 6th from Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, towards the stunning shores of Grenada, the Spice Island of the Caribbean.

Together, they would sail approximately 2,700 nautical miles across the Atlantic, with Port Louis Marina in Grenada as their final destination.

With an intermediate stop planned at Marina Mindelo in Cape Verde, the fleet set sail in very light wind conditions and would then experience some stronger north easterly winds on their way to Mindelo for the remaining days; a total of approximately 850-miles until the Island of Sao Vicente.

Ahead of departure, the rally team coordinated the testing of satellite communication systems and tracking to ensure all vessels could stay in contact with each other and the Onshore Tracking team. Provisions, including deep-frozen and vacuum-packed meats, fresh vegetables, fruits, and pharmacy supplies were delivered, distributed to participants and supervised by the organization. That evening, the crews enjoyed the Captains’ Dinner, sponsored this year by Sevenstar Yacht Transport.

The route between the Canary Islands and Cape Verde would take most of participants between 5-7 days.

Viking Explorers Rally 2025 Stopover at Marina Mindelo

The fleet of 22 boats embarked on the 850-mile voyage south to the Cape Verde Islands, which took between 4 to 8 days to complete under exceptional sailing conditions.

The fleet safely reached its first destination, Marina Mindelo, São Vicente, where they were warmly welcomed by Marlino from the Viking Explorers Team alongside the attentive marina staff.

Marina Mindelo has been a vital partner of the Viking Explorers Rally since its inception, earning its reputation as a premier stopover for transatlantic crossings. Crews took advantage of this stop to carry out essential boat checks, replenish supplies, and relax while enjoying the vibrant local culture. This stage is especially valued by participants, as it allows them to assess their boats’ performance after leaving the Canary Islands, ensuring they are well-prepared for the upcoming Atlantic crossing.

The first boat to arrive in Mindelo was Voy, a stunning Outremer 55 catamaran. Under the command of Captain Soren, accompanied by his wife Ugne, their children Kevin and Keira, and crew members Lucie, Diana, and Tiernan, Voy completed its journey in just under 5 days, arriving on January 11th at 5:40 a.m. They were also specially greeted by the marina staff and received a nice Welcome Basket. The rest of the fleet followed in the subsequent days, docking safely at Mindelo.

During their stay, sailors explored the lively streets and markets of Mindelo, immersing themselves in the island’s rich cultural heritage. Some ventured to the neighboring island of Santo Antão, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, verdant valleys, and striking contrast to São Vicente’s more arid terrain. These excursions provided sailors with a refreshing break and memorable experiences before embarking on the next leg of their journey.

A key highlight of the stopover was the much-anticipated Welcome Party at the marina’s iconic floating bar. Organized by Marina Mindelo, the event featured music, food, and drinks in true Cape Verdean style. Marina Manager Jackie Gomes and her assistant, Ivanice Estevão, personally greeted the participants, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that left a lasting impression on the sailors. The evening became a joyous celebration, with participants sharing their experiences of the first 850 miles.

As planned, the fleet resumed its journey on the morning of January 17th. Having enjoyed a few days of Cape Verdean hospitality and completed final preparations, the sailors were ready for the challenges ahead. Two days prior to departure, a weather webinar provided by the organizers forecasted strong trade winds in the 20-knot range, offering ideal but strong conditions for the fleet’s Atlantic crossing. Following Viking Explorers’ tradition of prioritizing safety and prudent seamanship, captains together with the organization decided to stick to the schedule.

The Viking Explorers Rally 2025 fleet successfully reached Camper & Nicholsons Port Louis Marina on the stunning Caribbean island of Grenada at the end of January.

Following the stop at Marina Mindelo, the fleet embarked then on a challenging 2,100-mile journey across the Atlantic, being this year a more challenging and stronger passage with stronger Tradewinds than expected.

The first boat to arrive at Port Louis Marina, after 11 days at sea, was SY Lickety, a stunning catamaran Hudson & Hakes 50 (HH50-SC),captained by Catherine Lorenz,—an impressive feat after departing from Cape Verde. Just 11 days !

Upon arrival in Grenada, participants were warmly welcomed by the Grenada Tourism Authority, Port Louis Marina, rally staff, fellow sailors, and friends, showcasing the island’s renowned hospitality and deep-rooted sailing culture. As the fleet arrived, sailors were greeted with the traditional rum punch and a welcome basket from the Grenada Tourism Authority.

A few days of exciting activities and excursions awaited the sailors, allowing them to immerse themselves in Grenada’s rich culture, like the guided tour organized by Budget Marine and Spice Island Marine Services, the Marina Village Day, hosted by Port Louis Marina or the Sundowner with traditional food, courtesy of Mount Cinnamon Resort.

All these events set the stage for the highly anticipated Welcome Ceremony. On the 7th of February, Grenada celebrated its 51st Anniversary of Independence, making the experience even more special for both participants and the Viking Explorers team. The island was beautifully decorated, and the festive atmosphere added to the unforgettable journey.

Furthermore, on board SY Sawasdeekat was former finalist of Master Chef UK 2022, Waleerat Tredell,(Pookie), who welcomed the idea from the organisation to perform a cooking session at the prestigious Mt.Cinnamon Resort. With the collaboration of the Grenada Tourism Authority, Mt.Cinnamon Resort and Clarke's Court Rum, Ms.Pookie presented "Grenadian Lobster Pookie Style" and "Pinacotta Colada" using local ingredients and the spices Grenada is famous for.

The Welcome Ceremony

The Welcome Ceremony at True Blue Bay Resort was a lively celebration of maritime achievement, featuring traditional music, local cuisine, and heartfelt speeches. Against the backdrop of a stunning Caribbean sunset, sailors mingled, sharing stories of their transatlantic adventures.

Tornia Charles from the Grenada Tourism Authority welcomed all sailors and expressed gratitude for choosing Grenada as their destination. Zara Tremlett, Marina Manager, extended a warm greeting before an emotional speech by the rally’s director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs.

Each participant was invited on stage to receive certificates and gifts, with many taking the opportunity to share a few words with their fellow sailors.

“We are delighted to host the Viking Explorers Rally 2025 in Grenada for the fifth consecutive time. This rally embodies the adventurous spirit and camaraderie that define both the sailing community and the ethos of the event. We are honored by those who have placed their trust in us and our expertise for crossing the Atlantic Ocean with Viking Explorers,” stated Managing Director Oliver Solanas Heinrichs.

The ceremony continued with the fun awards presentation for:

• Smallest boat: SY Seas The Day, (Fountain Pajot 40)

• Largest boats: Keep Cool (Hylas 66,)

• Youngest captain: Jan Oltmans, from SY Aquamarin

• Oldest captain: Joe Allala, from SY Pixie Dust

• Newest boat: SY Voy (Outremer 55)

• Oldest boat: SY Aquamarin ( Hanseat Commodore 41 )

Winner of the fishing contest was SY Sawasdeekat, with an impressive Mahi Mahi.

Winner of the photo contest was Matts Person, on board SY Manami II.

The prestigious “Spirit of the Viking Explorers” award was presented to Theo Teazis, captain of SY Paloma (Amel 50) , for his outstanding support and camaraderie, embodying the true essence of the rally.

On stage, Theo thanked the organizers and all his fellow sailors that have escorted and helped him and his wife Pam throughout this journey.

As is tradition, the rally concluded with its much-anticipated “Rally Video”, a heartfelt recap of the adventure, accompanied by the traditional Steel Pan Band, adding an authentic Caribbean touch.

For those who dream of an unforgettable Atlantic crossing, this rally continues to set the gold standard for adventure, friendship, and the true spirit of Bluewater sailing in a boutique format.

The event is sponsored by the Grenada Tourism Authority, Port Louis Marina Camper & Nicholson, Grenada Distillery, Mount Cinnamon Beach Resort, Spice Island Marine Services, Budget Marine, Sevenstar Yacht Transport, Detelec Naval, Sailworld Cruising, Marina Mindelo, Imray, Predictwind, Hydrovane, Island Cruising, Clarke and Carter Caribbean, Yacht Agent Galapagos, True Blue Bay Resort, Accastillage Diffusion, MDV Sailmaker, El Corte Inglés.