Historic First: The Ocean Race Europe 2025 to Make Adriatic Debut with the Finale in Montenegro’s Boka Bay

The prestigious The Ocean Race Europe is set to make history by arriving in the Adriatic Sea for the first time ever! The 2025 edition of the renowned sailing competition will culminate with a Theinale in stunning Boka Bay, Montenegro, when the foiling IMOCA fleet sails into the bay in September 2025. This milestone event marks the second edition of The Ocean Race Europe, building on the success of its 2021 debut, and will unite Europe under the theme “Connecting Europe”, showcasing coastal sustainability, environmental action, and thrilling competitive racing.

Spanning over 4,000 nautical miles, The Ocean Race Europe 2025 will start in Kiel, Germany, on 10 August 2025, weaving through iconic European waters. The fleet will race to Portsmouth (UK), pass Matosinhos-Porto, Portugal (fly-by stage), head to Cartagena (Spain), Nice (France), and Genova (Italy), before making its historic Adriatic entrance into Boka Bay, Montenegro. The Ocean Race Europe 2025  Finale will mark the first time The Ocean Race has ever competed in the Adriatic Sea, highlighting Montenegro’s growing role in global sailing and sustainability.

Porto Montenegro, the official host marina for The Finale, will welcome teams and fans to its world-class facilities. Tony Browne, Marina Director at Porto Montenegro, emphasized the alignment of values: “We are proud to host The Ocean Race Europe 2025. This race embodies adventure, excellence, and respect for the ocean—principles we champion through our sustainability commitments.Collaborating with the Government of Montenegro and Tivat Municipality, we look forward to delivering a world-class event that inspires action for our seas.”

The 2025 race will feature cutting-edge foiling IMOCA boats, crewed by four sailors (including at least one woman and two nationalities) plus an onboard reporter. Beyond speed and strategy, crews will collect vital ocean data using specialized equipment, continuing The Ocean Race’s award-winning science program to support global marine research. On shore, Ocean Live Park activations in each host city will engage the public with interactive exhibits, team meet-and-greets, and immersive educational content on ocean health and sustainable practices.

Richard Brisius, Race Chairman of The Ocean Race : “The ocean is our racetrack, and our sailors see firsthand the challenges it faces. Through The Ocean Race Europe 2025, we’ll collaborate with host cities and other stakeholders to drive awareness about the importance of a healthy sea and reset humanity’s relationship with the ocean. Every city on this route is pivotal to driving environmental, social, and economic progress.”

The 2025 route announcement solidifies the race’s vision to Connect Europe while promoting the protection and restoration of the ocean. From the Baltic to the Mediterranean, and through to the Adriatic Sea, the host cities will act as hubs for innovation, proving that competitive sport and environmental stewardship can sail hand in hand.