The WIORA Atlantic Offshore Cup returns for its third season in 2026, continuing its mission to grow offshore and coastal racing along Ireland's spectacular Atlantic coastline.
Organised by the West of Ireland Offshore Racing Association (WIORA), the Atlantic Cup offers sailors the opportunity to compete in a series of challenging Category 3 and coastal races connecting some of the country's most scenic sailing destinations. Open to both IRC and White Sail competitors, the series combines competitive racing with the unique experience of sailing Ireland's west coast.
The opening race, the Shannon Dash, takes place on 27 June and serves as a perfect lead-in to the WIORA Regatta in Fenit. Starting in Foynes, crews will race down the Shannon Estuary past Tarbert, Scattery Island and Carrigaholt before rounding Kerry Head and finishing in Tralee Bay beneath the watchful gaze of the Saint Brendan the Navigator statue.
Following the WIORA Regatta, competitors will tackle the Atlantic Cup's signature offshore challenge, the 100 Miler, on 11 July. The course takes sailors from Fenit to Schull, passing some of Ireland's most iconic coastal landmarks including Mount Brandon, the Blasket Islands, the Skelligs and Mizen Head.
The series continues after Calves Week with a race from Schull to Dingle on 8 August, followed by the Dingle to Kilrush leg on 15 August and the final stage from Kilrush to Foynes on 22 August.
The Atlantic Cup was established to encourage more sailors to experience offshore racing on the west coast and to provide an accessible pathway into longer-distance competition. With a varied schedule, welcoming host clubs and some of the finest sailing waters in Europe, the series continues to attract growing interest from around the country.
WIORA extends its thanks to Doyle Sails for their continued support of the Atlantic Cup series and looks forward to welcoming both returning competitors and new entrants for another memorable season of offshore racing.