The City hosts The Ocean Race Europe with Extensive Activity Park

From August 23 to 26, Cartagena becomes the international sailing hub as it welcomes The Ocean Race Europe for the first time. Seven teams sailing IMOCA class boats and sailors from thirteen different nationalities will compete in this second stage, which starts in Portsmouth and ends in the Spanish port.

The port of Cartagena will unveil the Ocean Live Park, spanning nearly 18,000 square metres along the waterfront from Cola de Ballena to the ARQUA Museum. This open and free-to-access park offers a wide range of activities for all ages, including kids' water games, sea baptisms, concerts, environmental talks, and tours of civilian and military vessels.

Highlights include an 18-metre diameter dome with 360-degree projections, sailing simulators, and a giant screen to follow the race live as competitors set off for Nice on August 26. Visitors will also find a gastronomic area with food trucks, sponsor zones, and spaces dedicated to promoting sailing sports alongside team areas.

The event is a joint effort between the City Council, the Port Authority, the Autonomous Community, and Maritime Captaincy, delivering a combination of sport, culture, and leisure within Cartagena’s historic setting. Daily activities run from 10:00 AM until after midnight throughout most of the race’s stay.

Competition and Festivities in Cartagena

The fleet, currently led by Team Biotherm with a flawless record, will arrive after navigating a route including a scoring gate at The Needles rock formation and a fly-by in Matosinhos-Oporto. Teams anticipate challenging wind and sea conditions, making this stage one of the race's most tactical and exciting.

Cartagena’s hosting of this event is a source of pride and an opportunity to boost the city's image as a historical, cultural, and sporting landmark, offering locals and visitors a unique experience through the Ocean Live Park and the thrill of world-class sailing competition.