Waddenrace 2026 — Sail Along on the Wadden Sea from Harlingen

The Nationale Waddenrace is the grand finale of the racing season on the Wadden Sea, organised since 1994 by the Stichting Nationale Waddenrace — the 30th anniversary was celebrated in 2024. This challenging sailing race starts and finishes in Harlingen and runs past the harbours of Den Oever, Oudeschild (Texel), Vlieland and Terschelling, in random order — so the tactics begin right at the start. It is the ultimate test for ship and crew on the Wadden Sea. What makes the Waddenrace so special is the combination of the unpredictable character of the Wadden Sea with the beauty of the Wadden Islands. The tide, the shallows and the shifting wind make every edition of the Waddenrace different. Navigation and knowledge of the tides are at least as important as speed — and that keeps this race exciting right to the last mile. The use of engines and modern navigation aids is forbidden during the race: here seamanship, knowledge of the tides and teamwork win the day. Aboard the clipper Johanna Engelina you experience the Waddenrace as an active crew member. Together with skipper Laurens and the regular crew you sail across the Wadden Sea, helping to hoist the sails and trim the sheets. The Johanna Engelina has sailed the Waddenrace many times — sometimes with adventurous results: in 2022 the leeboard broke, which shows just how challenging this race can be. Traditionally the Waddenrace ends with a rousing closing party in the harbour of Harlingen. After the finish all the crews celebrate the end of a wonderful sailing season together. Sailing experience is not required — everyone is welcome on board. The Waddenrace aboard the Johanna Engelina is fully catered: all meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), coffee, tea, soft drinks, beer and wine are included. Close the racing season with the most adventurous race of the year!