Steering the Course, World Sailing’s global women’s sailing festival, returns this year with two opportunities to celebrate and promote women’s sailing, inspire women and girls to discover the sport, and bring the community together.
The first festival takes place from 22-31 May 2026, while the second runs from 25 September to 4 October 2026. This offers sailors, clubs, and organisations worldwide the ideal opportunity to support women in sailing and share the magic of a life on the water.
This sixth edition of Steering the Course connects directly with the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, ‘Give to Gain’ – highlighting that everyone benefits when support, mentorship, and opportunities are shared.
In sailing, ‘Give to Gain’ means supporting more women and girls to discover their potential, develop their skills, and assume roles as athletes, coaches, race officials, and leaders.
Fiona Kidd, Head of International Development, stated, “Steering the Course is all about opening doors and creating opportunities, and this year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, embodies the spirit of our community. When we give our time, expertise, and encouragement, we not only support others but strengthen our sport as a whole. Every activity delivered, every new participant welcomed, and every story shared helps build a more inclusive and vibrant future for sailing. I encourage all our members to get involved, contribute what they can, and be part of something truly impactful.”
World Sailing has awarded technical courses as part of this year’s Steering the Course. Iceland will host a Race Officer Course Level 1 session while a Technical Course for Coaches Level 1 will be held in Brazil.
In addition, events organised in South Africa, Bolivia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Hong Kong, China, will help further raise awareness of opportunities for women and girls to discover sailing and progress through the sport.
This year marks the sixth year that Sailability Hong Kong has contributed to Steering the Course. As one of the original supporters, the organisation has introduced over 6500 women to sailing through the festival.
More details about this year’s events are available on the Steering the Course Events Calendar.
More information about Steering the Course 2026 is available on the World Sailing website.
Get involved and share your story
Throughout Steering the Course, World Sailing’s social media channels will share content from people, clubs, and countries participating to elevate the fantastic efforts of those involved worldwide.
Clubs and participants are encouraged to share imagery and video content from their countries or sailing clubs on social media.
Photos, videos, and stories can also be sent directly to training@sailing.org, using WeTransfer.com to send larger files if necessary.
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