Inclusion at Its Finest: 2025 Hansa Class & Para World Championships

This was more than a regatta. It was a statement: sailing is for everyone. 

There was exceptional racing across the fleets, with Sailors competing across five classes: 

• Hansa 2.3 
• Hansa 303 (Single and Double) 
• Liberty 
• SKUD 18 

Despite the challenges of unseasonably light wind conditions, race officials and volunteers delivered a full schedule of high-quality races. From close calls at the top marks to photo finishes, the racing was a masterclass in tactical skill and sportsmanship. 

Countries including Australia, Japan, Great Britain, France, Hong Kong China, and Germany brought strong contingents, with several podium places shared across continents, a true demonstration of the sport’s growing global reach. 

This year’s championship was a milestone for visually impaired sailors, thanks to the pioneering use of audio buoy technology. Piloted by sailors from New Zealand in the Hansa 303 Double fleet, the system enabled sailors with vision impairment to compete independently, navigating by sound rather than sight. 

The test exceeded expectations and laid the groundwork for further integration of this technology in both Para and mainstream sailing events. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and plans are already underway to expand its use at future competitions. 

Ahead of the championships, World Sailing’s Inclusive Development Program (IDP) brought together sailors, coaches, and technical staff from emerging nations. Focused on empowering Para sailing communities, the IDP delivered training, mentoring, and practical race support, ensuring that teams were race-ready and confident on the start line all led by the fantastic coaching of Grant Alderson. 

The program continues to play a vital role in growing inclusive sailing worldwide, offering the structure and support needed to build sustainable pathways for Para athletes and coaches. 

Delivering an event of this magnitude would not have been possible without the tireless work of the RPAYC team, the International Hansa Class Association, and a dedicated group of volunteers. From accessible facilities and equipment provisioning to world-class on-water race management, every detail was carefully planned to meet World Sailing’s technical standards for Para and inclusive events. 

The success of the 2025 Hansa Class and Para World Championships reinforces the incredible potential of Para Inclusive Sailing.  

With the announcement of the first World Sailing Inclusive Championships just around the corner and plans to introduce new formats like adaptive wing foiling, the future is full of promise. 

Momentum is building—on and off the water. Nations including Germany, Hong Kong China, Turkey, France, and Portugal are already expressing interest in hosting and competing in future inclusive events.  

World Sailing remains committed to growing these opportunities through strong partnerships, accessible equipment, and athlete-centred approaches. 

To every sailor, volunteer, coach, official, and supporter – thank you for making this event unforgettable. Whether racing at the front of the fleet or supporting from the sidelines, your presence and passion have helped push Para Sailing to new heights. 

Together, we are all in the same boat.