World Sailing plots a new course for Offshore Sailing with the release of its 'Navigating Offshore' strategy

The document delivers a clear and ambitious roadmap to support the growth, sustainability, and global coordination of one of sailing’s most dynamic disciplines. 

Navigating Offshore fulfills a significant commitment made as part of World Sailing’s wider organisational strategy, ‘Ready for the Future’, launched in 2024 to guide the sport towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. This new plan recognises the unique challenges and opportunities within offshore and oceanic sailing. 

The strategy is built on a mission to empower sailors, Member National Authorities, Classes, Rating Systems and event organisers to further develop offshore sailing. It aims to support lifelong participation as well as lifelong opportunities for entry into the sport for sailors at every level, professional and amateur, from grassroots sailing to the pinnacle of round-the-world challenges, while promoting the highest standards of safety and sportsmanship. 

The plan is structured around four priorities: 

1. Clear governance – because, rules must work for the sport, not the other way around. 
2. Empowered stakeholders – because giving offshore sailing the best chance to prosper means our global sailing community must be supported to play its part. 
3. Increased visibility – because offshore sailing showcases the best values of our sport. 
4. Financial balance – because providing a good service requires the right resources.  

David Graham, World Sailing CEO, said, “The launch of ‘Navigating Offshore’ is a landmark moment for our sport and a direct delivery on the promises we made in our ‘Ready for the Future’ strategy. Offshore sailing’s blend of adventure, technology, and profound human endurance provides unique opportunities to capture the public imagination and exemplify the World Sailing values of integrity, resilience, ambition, and resourcefulness.  

“This plan establishes the framework we need to harness that passion and empower the offshore community to grow We are committed to working with our Member National Authorities, class associations, Rating Systems and event organisers to build a vibrant and sustainable future for the discipline.” 

Matt Allen, Chair of the Oceanic and Offshore Committee, said: “Navigating Offshore was developed with the support of the Oceanic and Offshore Committee and represents a strong step forward for World Sailing. 

“The publication of this plan means the oceanic and offshore community, who are a vital part of our sport, now have a document which outlines what they can expect from their international federation.” 

Navigating Offshore was developed following consultation with key stakeholders from across the sport. 

The full Navigating Offshore strategy is available for download on the World Sailing website.