Jimmy Cornell introduces the latest sailing expedition: the High Latitude Challenge
Jimmy Cornell, the founder of the popular ARC transatlantic rally, is set to organize a new sailing event - the High Latitude Challenge. This new expedition focuses on challenging voyages in high-latitude regions, promising an exciting adventure for participants.
The idea for the High Latitude Challenge was born after Cornell witnessed numerous boats setting sail for the Atlantic Crossing and felt a need for unity among the participants. This sentiment echoes his involvement in the High Latitude Challenge, where he was initially inspired by similar circumstances.
The High Latitude Challenge is not your traditional rally but a rolling event, allowing yachts to join at various points along the route, such as Ushuaia, Argentina, or Dutch Harbor, Alaska. The event kicks off in Cherbourg, France in September 2026, heading south to Rio, Brazil, and then to Ushuaia, Argentina, with the intention of crossing to the Antarctic Peninsula.
From there, the route takes participants on an 8,600-mile passage northbound in the Pacific, via Easter Island and Honolulu, before attempting to transit the Northwest Passage and Labrador Sea to Newfoundland. The High Latitude Challenge aims to align with seasonal weather conditions for sailing in these areas, ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for all participants.
Safety and thorough voyage planning in changing environments are key aspects of the High Latitude Challenge. Given the nature of the event—an expedition cruise in high latitudes—it can be inferred that participants need to have suitable experience in offshore and high latitude sailing, be equipped with appropriate seaworthy vessels, and be prepared for demanding navigation and environmental conditions.
Jimmy Cornell will send a questionnaire to potential participants to assess their sailing experience and qualifications. The questionnaire will include details about the participant's sailing miles, years of experience, and the type of boat they intend to use.
Logistical and service support will be available at two key stopover points, with good facilities: Mar del Plata in Argentina, and Honolulu in Hawaii. For precise requirements and registration details, consulting Jimmy Cornell’s official channels or the event's specific announcements would be necessary.
The ARC rally, launched in St. Katharine Docks, received widespread interest, with 209 boats setting sail for Barbados in its first edition. The High Latitude Challenge, while a new event, shares a connection with the ARC rally as they were both influenced by Jimmy Cornell's passion for sailing and bringing people together.
The High Latitude Challenge is a significant event for Jimmy Cornell, as it resembles the origins of the ARC rally, which he also founded. This new expedition promises to be an exciting addition to the sailing world, offering a unique and challenging voyage for those who dare to venture into the high latitudes.
- Participants of the High Latitude Challenge, inspired by Jimmy Cornell's passion for sailing and unity, embark on an adventure that transcends ordinary travel, embracing bluewater cruising, lifestyle, and sports as they navigate through high-latitude regions in this adventure-travel event.
- imperial deposits logistical and service support at Mar del Plata, Argentina, and Honolulu, Hawaii, ensuring seamless travel for challengers, making the High Latitude Challenge an exceptional voyage for those pursuing an unforgettable sailing lifestyle.
