Brandarisrace 2026 — Sail Along from Harlingen to Terschelling

The Kuiper Brandarisrace is one of the most beloved sailing races on the Wadden Sea and an absolute highlight of the racing season. The race was originally organised to mark the 400th anniversary of the Brandaris lighthouse; in 2026 the 31st edition is sailed. Every October dozens of historic sailing ships — large and small clippers, tjalken, aken and skûtsjes — compete to be the first to reach the finish at the Brandaris on Terschelling. The start is in the harbour of Harlingen. Aboard the clipper Johanna Engelina you experience the Brandarisrace 2026 up close. Together with skipper Laurens and the crew you sail as an active crew member — from hoisting sails to holding the helm, from working the leeboards to navigating the Wadden Sea. No sailing experience is needed: everyone is welcome, from beginners to seasoned sailors. The crew divides up the tasks and guides you through every manoeuvre. The Wadden Sea offers a unique racecourse with shallow channels, tidal currents and unpredictable wind. That makes the Brandarisrace a tactical race in which seamanship and teamwork make the difference. The tension as the Brandaris appears on the horizon is indescribable. After the race on Saturday the whole fleet moors in the harbour of Terschelling for the legendary Brandarisrace party. Music, good company and stories about the race — the highlight of the weekend. On Sunday we sail back to Harlingen at a relaxed pace, with the wind in the sails and the memories of an unforgettable weekend. The Brandarisrace aboard the Johanna Engelina is fully catered: all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), coffee, tea, buttermilk, soft drinks, beer and wine are included. All you need to bring is a sleeping bag and waterproof clothing. You spend the night in one of the cosy cabins aboard — even on Terschelling after the party you are in your bunk within a minute, while others still have to find a bed on the island. The Johanna Engelina has a strong track record in the Brandarisrace: 5th place in 2024, 6th in 2022 and 10th in 2019. Will you join in 2026? Book your place now — the Brandarisrace sells out fast every year!