Barcolana

1800+ yachts – Gulf of Trieste – The largest sailing race in the world

BARCOLANA 58

October 9–11, 2026 · Trieste, Italy
Race start: Sunday, October 11, 2026 · 10:30 AM

The Barcolana is the largest sailing race in the world – with up to 2,000 boats and around 16,000 sailors from all over the globe. Since 1969, the race has taken place every year in October in the Gulf of Trieste.

» BOOK SINGLE BERTH

↓ included services

» REQUEST WHOLE BOAT

↓ included services

Your contact

If you have any questions about our offers, please get in touch with us! We prefer to assist you in person.

Max Miller

Regatta & Events
+43 676 6615073
max@in2theblue.com

The Race

The Barcolana is one of the largest and most famous sailing races in the world. Since 1969, the regatta has been held annually in October in the Gulf of Trieste – and has evolved from a local race into an international spectacle with thousands of participants. With over 2,000 registered boats and around 16,000 sailors, the Barcolana holds the world record as the largest sailing race measured by the number of participants.

The course covers 13 nautical miles on a fixed quadrilateral course in the Gulf of Trieste: Start between Barcola and Miramare (10:30 AM) → Mark 1 (4.3 nm, course 210°) → Mark 2 (0.9 nm, course 332°) → Mark 3 near Miramare Castle (4 nm) → Barcola coast (2.3 nm) → Finish in front of Piazza Unità d’Italia.

Start line: Between Barcola and Miramare · Finish: Piazza Unità d’Italia, Trieste · Offshore Regatta Category 3

» Date
October 9–11, 2026

» Race Day
Sun, Oct 11 · Start 10:30 AM

» Course
13 nautical miles in the Gulf of Trieste

» Location
Trieste, Italy

The sailing area

The Gulf of Trieste offers a unique sailing area: sheltered waters with distinct wind conditions due to the famous Bora wind. Trieste itself is one of Italy’s most beautiful port cities – with magnificent squares, a lively coffee house culture, and a deep connection to the sea.

The festival surrounding the Barcolana spans an entire week (October 2–11) with regattas, exhibitions, concerts, and the Barcolana Sea Summit – an international congress on the sea and sustainability.

On the weekend of October 9–11, downtown Trieste turns into a vibrant musical and culinary festival centered around sailing.

View from the bow at the Barcolana regatta field

Schedule

October 9–10: Check-in on the boat at 12:00 PM (Friday) / 9:00 AM (Saturday), training during the day. In the evening, Barcolana Festival – exhibitions, events & party in Trieste’s old town

Sun, Oct 11: Race Day – Departure at 9:00 AM, start expected at 10:30 AM between Barcola and Miramare. Finish line crossing in front of Piazza Unità d’Italia. Check-out on the boat approx. 5:00 PM

Accommodation

Staying overnight on the boat is possible by arrangement. Trieste offers a wide selection of hotels in all categories – from charming guesthouses in the old town to modern design hotels at the harbor. We recommend booking early, as the city is very busy during Barcolana week. We are happy to help you find accommodation.

SECURE YOUR SPOT NOW

» BOOK SINGLE BERTH

» REQUEST WHOLE BOAT

FAQ

The Barcolana is a one-day regatta over 13 nautical miles. Basic sailing experience is recommended. Our skipper takes charge of the boat – you can actively sail along or simply experience the spectacle.

Included in the price: yacht, professional skipper, entry fee (Barcolana Ticket to Race), safety equipment. Not included: travel to/from Trieste, accommodation, meals, personal expenses.

To book a whole boat, write to us directly at max@in2theblue.com. We will then discuss the boat, crew, and all details individually with you.

Yes! A combination with our delivery legs is possible. This way, you can experience part or the entire journey from the Adriatic to the start of the race. Contact us for a customized offer.