Experienced sailor Jimmy Cornell unveils the latest sailing expedition, the High Latitude Challenge
Jimmy Cornell, the renowned sailor and founder of the original ARC transatlantic rally, is organising a new adventure – the High Latitude Challenge. This sailing event promises to take participants on a journey through challenging northern ocean routes, including the Arctic and Antarctic regions.
The Route
The High Latitude Challenge is designed to navigate some of the world's most remote and icy waters. The exact route varies each year, depending on ice conditions and planning, but it typically includes passages such as Greenland, the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, and Iceland. The expedition aims to test sailors' skills in dealing with cold-weather navigation, ice hazards, and remote areas, drawing on Cornell's extensive experience in high latitude sailing expeditions.
Participation Requirements
The High Latitude Challenge is not an organised rally but a rolling event, with participants joining anywhere along the route and finishing wherever they prefer. However, there are certain requirements for participating.
Experience and Vessel Readiness
Participants must have prior ocean sailing experience, especially in cold or high-latitude conditions. Boats need to be well-equipped for polar conditions, including reinforced hulls for ice, reliable heating systems, and adequate safety and communication equipment.
Crew Readiness
Physical and mental preparedness for harsh, cold environments and limited rescue support is essential. Participants should be ready to face extreme weather, ice navigation, and remote emergency situations.
Guidelines Compliance
Following Jimmy Cornell’s event-specific safety and environmental protocols is crucial. Cornell's questionnaire for the High Latitude Challenge will assess participants' sailing experience, boat type, and suitability for the voyage.
Key Stopovers
The High Latitude Challenge will have logistical and service support at two key stopover points, Mar del Plata in Argentina, and Honolulu in Hawaii. A support team and Cornell Sailing presence will also be in key places along the route, including Cherbourg, Las Palmas, Mar del Plata, Ushuaia, Hawaii, Dutch Harbor, and Aasiaat [Greenland].
The High Latitude Challenge's Significance
The High Latitude Challenge is a "full circle" moment for Cornell, connecting to his early work with our website and the original ARC rally. It marks a return to organising long-distance sailing events, showcasing his passion for adventure and exploration.
The High Latitude Challenge features the 'bucket list' expedition sailing destinations of Antarctica and the Northwest Passage. The expedition is planned to align with seasonal weather conditions, delivering the fleet to Antarctica in summer (January-February) and to the Arctic during the brief window when the Northwest Passage may be navigable (July-August).
For those seeking a challenge and an unforgettable sailing adventure, the High Latitude Challenge promises to deliver an experience like no other. For precise details, consulting official Jimmy Cornell expedition communications or their website is recommended.
- For those who dream of combining bluewater cruising, travel, and adventure-travel, the High Latitude Challenge offers an opportunity to sail through remote and icy waters, such as Greenland, the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, and Iceland.
- Participants in the High Latitude Challenge willnot only experience a lifestyle filled with sports and exploration but will also face challenges in dealing with cold-weather navigation, ice hazards, and remote areas, making it an unforgettable sailing adventure.
