Cartagena Shines Hosting The Ocean Race Europe 2025

Cartagena transformed into a vibrant nautical hub over four days as it hosted The Ocean Race Europe 2025, featuring seven IMOCA class boats with sailors from 13 nations.

From 23 to 26 August, the Ocean Live Park buzzed with activity including children’s water games at Cola de Ballena, concerts, guided tours of civil and military vessels, sailing simulators, talks on sustainability, and culinary experiences such as a giant paella and churros with chocolate. The Fan Day on 24 August enabled fans to meet and get autographs from sailors.

Patricio Rosas, event director, highlighted the significance: "This event boosts Cartagena as a professional sailing destination and promotes the sport locally, while showcasing the picturesque Cartagena Bay."

The event culminated with the fleet's departure for the demanding third leg to Nice, France, covering 680 nautical miles. The teams pursued different routes based on weather conditions, facing volatile Mediterranean winds and low pressure, keeping competitors and fans highly engaged.

Changing conditions and varying navigation tactics

Some teams chose an offshore southern route, while others sailed closer to the coast, passing the Balearic Islands and around Giraglia off northern Corsica. Skippers such as Paul Meilhat, Rosalin Kuiper, and Ambrogio Beccaria emphasised the challenge of summer Mediterranean sailing, highlighting the need to adapt to unpredictable weather and the strategic richness of the course.

Cartagena reaffirms its role as a prime venue for top-level nautical events, enhancing its international maritime profile.