Sailing Academy

From local sailing to offshore racing.

Cormorant Ocean Racing

From local sailing to offshore racing

Cormorant Ocean Racing is developing a Sailing Academy alongside SY Cormorant's offshore racing programme, creating a practical pathway for young sailors to gain experience beyond local waters and progress into offshore racing.

The focus is on genuine offshore experience, professional coaching and a clear progression from local sailing to international offshore racing.

A practical pathway from local waters to the international racing calendar.

At a glance

20% of crew places allocated to young sailors
Applications open 26th August 2026
Professional coaching from former Olympic sailor Hugh Styles
Racing aboard SY Cormorant
First campaign: the Rolex Middle Sea Race
Progression across the international racing calendar

Apply for youth crew

Building the Programme

The Rolex Middle Sea Race is the first major step in Cormorant's offshore racing programme. The intention is to build from this into a regular presence on the international racing calendar.

As the programme develops, the Sailing Academy will give young sailors the opportunity to progress alongside it, gaining experience across different types of offshore racing and increasingly challenging conditions.

Future targets

Giraglia Rolex Cup
Palma Vela
Future Rolex Middle Sea Races
Grand Soleil Cup

June 2027
RORC Transatlantic Race

2028

Youth Crew

20% of crew places will be allocated to young sailors, giving the next generation the opportunity to gain genuine offshore racing experience as part of Cormorant's campaign.

Places will be selected based on ability, commitment and enthusiasm, with applications opening from 26th August 2026.

Youth members of local sailing clubs and those undertaking or having recently completed offshore training are encouraged to apply.

The aim is to provide young sailors with real experience of offshore racing — from preparation and training through to competing as part of an experienced crew.

20%

Of crew places allocated to young sailors

26 Aug

Applications open 2026

Selected on ability, commitment and enthusiasm.

Professional Coaching

To prepare the crew for the demands of offshore racing, we have appointed former Olympic sailor Hugh Styles as Executive Coach.

Hugh will oversee the training programme in the lead-up to the race, working with the crew on the skills, preparation and teamwork required for offshore competition.

Professional preparation for offshore competition.

A Long-Term Plan

The objective is straightforward: build a competitive offshore racing programme while creating opportunities for young sailors.

Starting with Cormorant's Middle Sea Race campaign, the Sailing Academy will provide a route from local sailing into the wider world of offshore racing.

From local sailing to offshore racing.

Want to take your sailing offshore?

Applications for youth crew open 26th August 2026.

Who should apply

Youth members of local sailing clubs
Sailors undertaking or having recently completed offshore training
Young sailors ready to commit to training and preparation
Selection based on ability, commitment and enthusiasm

Following your application, the team will review it and be in touch about the selection process and next steps.

Name:

Email:

Date of birth:

Nationality:

Sailing experience:

Qualifications: