More is better in the Caribbean

The Royal Ocean Racing Club will host the inaugural RORC Caribbean 600 Series in Antigua on February 14-24, 2023. The series will include three days of racing followed by the main event; the 14th edition of the RORC Caribbean 600. The RORC Caribbean 600 Series is open to boats racing under the IRC, CSA, and MOCRA Class Rules, plus other suitable classes.

“Historically, major 600-mile offshore races are part of a series, for example the Fastnet and the Admiral’s Cup,” noted RORC Vice Commodore Eric de Turckheim. “The RORC Caribbean 600 Series will have a similar format with inshore racing, a medium length offshore, and a long offshore race.

“The RORC Caribbean 600 race is one of the best offshore races in the world, but it is normally won by a big boat. The Series will give smaller boats a better chance of winning due to the variety of races. The Royal Ocean Racing Club have a long-term plan for the RORC Caribbean 600 Series; making it one of the world’s most significant regattas.”

Both de Turckheim’s Teasing Machine and RORC Commodore James Neville’s INO XXX are set to compete in the RORC Caribbean 600 Series.

2023 RORC Caribbean 600 Series
February 14 – Inshore racing in coastal waters of Antigua
February 15 – Inshore racing in coastal waters of Antigua
February 16 – Lay Day in Antigua
February 17 – 360 Round Antigua Race
February 18 – Series Prize Giving and RORC Caribbean 600 Opening Party
February 20 – Start of the 14th RORC Caribbean 600
February 24 – Prize Giving RORC Caribbean 600

In 2022, 74 teams from 32 countries competed in the 600nm course which circumnavigates 11 Caribbean Islands.

“The combination of a tactically challenging Caribbean destination, sunshine and warm blue waters makes this a totally unique event,” commented Race Director Chris Stone. “The RORC will continue to work with Antigua Yacht Club and their local volunteers supporting the management of this great event.

“All of the races in the Series will require boats to comply with World Sailing Offshore Special Regulations Category 3. For the RORC Caribbean 600 Race, boats will require additional equipment including: Liferaft, EPIRB, and AIS Transponder.”

International Race Officer Hank Stuart from Rochester, NY will be the Race Officer for the RORC Caribbean 600 Series. The intention is to run multiple races over the first two days. After Lay Day, the 52-mile 360 Round Antigua Race is scheduled and three days later will be the start of the 14th RORC Caribbean 600.

Questions: racing@rorc.org
Information: http://caribbean600.rorc.org/