The Ocean Racing Club of Victoria (ORCV) has announced plans to revive the Melbourne to Vanuatu Yacht Race in 2028, taking competitors on an extraordinary 1,885-nautical-mile passage from Portsea, across Bass Strait, and through the South Pacific to the tropical islands of Vanuatu. Previously raced in 2006, 2010, and 2014, the event is remembered as a challenging test of seamanship and navigation, finishing at one of the world’s most beautiful sailing destinations.
The Category 1 race is scheduled to start in late June 2028, featuring staggered starts to unite yachts of varying speeds at the finish. Faster yachts are expected to complete the passage in approximately 10 to 12 days, while smaller vessels may take between 12 and 16 days. The course will offer a range of ocean conditions, from the cold waters of Bass Strait to the variable winds of the horse latitudes, ultimately leading to the south-easterly trade winds for the final stretch to Vanuatu.
“This is the kind of race that stays with you for life,” said ORCV Commodore Cyrus Allen. “It combines serious blue water competition with the adventure of sailing from a Melbourne winter into the warmth and beauty of the South Pacific. Crossing the finish line in Vanuatu after nearly 1,900 nautical miles will be an unforgettable achievement for every crew.”
The race will feature fully crewed, double-handed, and cruising divisions for monohull and multihull yachts, with various handicap categories. It will also serve as a long-range shakedown for yachts participating in the 2030 Melbourne Osaka Cup.
After arriving in Vanuatu, crews will have the chance to rest and explore the archipelago’s landscapes, culture, and hospitality. Competitors may choose to cruise their yachts back to Australia, return directly to Melbourne, or sail to Queensland to participate in the winter regatta circuit.
Planning is underway for the finish near Port Havannah on Efate, where new marina and yacht club facilities are expected to support visiting yachts. The ORCV is collaborating with Vanuatu tourism representatives as the race programme develops.
To prepare crews for the passage, the ORCV will offer a comprehensive training and race-preparation programme covering medical readiness, provisioning, communications, repairs at sea, and more.
Expressions of interest are currently being sought from yacht owners and sailors keen to participate in this ambitious event. “This race offers the challenge of a major international ocean passage, the camaraderie of a shared expedition, and a destination that feels like a genuine reward,” Allen said.
The ORCV will use these expressions of interest to guide detailed planning ahead of formal entry opening in mid-2027, followed by the training and preparation programme.
For sailors seeking their next great blue water challenge, the course is set: Melbourne to Vanuatu, 2028.
Words: Cyrus Allen / ORCV Media
https://www.orcv.org.au/vanuatu
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