The 17th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600 has kicked off in Antigua, bringing a fleet of 57 yachts across monohulls and multihulls to tackle the challenging offshore course through the Leeward Islands. Starting and finishing beneath Fort Charlotte in English Harbour, the race is renowned for its complex legs, variable winds, and tactical navigation.
In the monohull division, a head-to-head battle is expected between Remon Vos’ Black Jack 100 and Joost Schuijff’s Leopard 3. Both canting-keel maxis have proven offshore credentials, with Black Jack 100 notably taking line honours in the 2025 Rolex Fastnet and Middle Sea Race, while Leopard 3 arrives race-fit after victories in the RORC Nelson’s Cup and Antigua 360.
Weather conditions are set to test crews, with winds forecasted at 20–22 knots but shifted approximately 30° further right than usual, affecting optimal tacking and reaching angles along key legs, including St Barth to Guadeloupe. Navigator Will Best notes that this may favour slower boats, while multihulls like the MOD 70s Argo and Zoulou are expected to lead on raw speed.
Other contenders to watch include the Maxi 72 Balthasar, VO65 Team Jajo, Irens 63 trimaran Sophia, and Gunboat 68 Little Wing, helmed by experienced offshore sailors including Paul Larsen.
The race promises a mix of strategic offshore navigation, high-speed sailing, and tactical battles, with line honours and corrected-time prizes keenly contested. Weather accuracy and crew performance over the 600-nautical-mile course will play a decisive role in the final standings.
For live tracking and updates, visit the International Maxi Association
