Expressions of interest are now officially open for the 10th Melbourne Osaka Cup, set to commence in March 2030. This event is renowned for being one of the most challenging ocean races, often compared to eight consecutive Sydney to Hobart or Fastnet Yacht Races. It requires participants to sail non-stop, unassisted, and with only two crew members.
Since its inception in 1987, the race has symbolised the friendship between Australia and Japan. Upon arrival in Osaka, competitors are not just welcomed as sailors but as honoured guests. The combination of the Japanese culture, the warm hospitality of the people, and the emotional significance of completing the race creates one of the most memorable finishes in global sailing.
Covering a distance of 5,000 nautical miles, the Melbourne Osaka Cup is the longest north-south ocean race worldwide. It is open to monohull yachts measuring up to 23 metres and follows Category 1+ safety requirements. The race tests the sailors’ skill, endurance, and the strength of their partnership as they sail double-handed and unassisted.
Participants will navigate from the Pacific Ocean through the Bass Strait, Tasman Sea, Coral Sea, and Solomon Sea, before tackling the unpredictable Intertropical Convergence Zone, commonly known as the Doldrums. This journey demands an understanding of various weather systems, from the harsher conditions of the southern waters to the lighter winds of the tropics and the transition zone approaching Osaka. The route crosses international waters, including Australia, Papua New Guinea, the Federated States of Micronesia, and the US territories of Guam and Saipan, before reaching the Ogasawara Islands and finally Osaka.
The race is organised collaboratively by the Ocean Racing Club of Victoria and Osaka Hokko Yacht Club, a partnership that has endured throughout all ten editions of the race. The staggered start format ensures a dramatic finish in Osaka, with yachts arriving in close proximity. However, the final standings are determined by elapsed time and handicaps. The current race record is an impressive 21 days, 12 hours, 41 minutes, and 13 seconds, set in 2018 by Rupert Henry and Greg O’Shea aboard Chinese Whisper. The average crossing time is around 35 days.
This event provides a unique opportunity for many sailors, particularly those who are Corinthian (non-professional and self-funded), to take on a significant challenge. With limited entries and the substantial logistical effort involved in staging the race, chances to participate are scarce. Sailors keen on facing one of offshore racing’s greatest challenges are encouraged to submit their expression of interest and consult the preliminary Notice of Race via the official event website, www.melbourneosakacup.com.
This is your moment. Commit early, prepare well, and be part of the 10th edition, making history in 2030.
Add your name to the Expressions of Interest at https://melbourneosakacup.com/en/home/.
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