Ocean Challenge 2027
From the Netherlands to the Caribbean aboard the Mariflex Challenge
Status
Conceptfase
Founding Crew
Registration open
Departure
2027
Sailing from the Netherlands to the Caribbean
In 2027, the Mariflex Challenge sets sail for an extraordinary expedition to the Caribbean. The goal is to bring together a group of motivated sailors who want to develop from coastal sailors into offshore and ocean sailors.
Ocean Challenge 2027 is an initiative by Demarage Zeil Centrum and Swelb. It is not a commercial charter trip, but a joint expedition project where adventure, training, teamwork and ocean sailing come together in a programme spanning over a year.
Taking part in Ocean Challenge 2027 involves costs. To join the ocean expedition, you are also required to complete a number of training days beforehand and reach the required sailing level. These training days come with costs as well.
The exact content of the programme and the associated costs are explained in more detail during the introduction process.
More about the expedition
The Mariflex Challenge
The Mariflex Challenge — a 67-foot steel sailing yacht from the Challenge series, being prepared for long offshore passages and the crossing to the Caribbean.
Length
67 feet (20 metres)
Construction
Steel hull
Origin
Challenge series
Suitable for
Long offshore passages
From the North Sea to the Caribbean
From preparation in the Netherlands to arrival in the Caribbean — a detailed plan for 2027-2028.
Preparation
Project plan, crew assembly, maintenance and training
Netherlands → Southern Europe
Legs along the Atlantic coast
Atlantic Crossing
The great crossing — ~2,700 nautical miles
Caribbean Programme
Island hopping, training and offshore legs
More than a sailing trip
An ocean expedition takes commitment, training and a financial investment — and gives a lot back. This is what you can expect.
Offshore experience
Develop from a coastal sailor into an offshore and ocean sailor aboard a large ocean-going yacht.
Teamwork
Become part of a motivated group of sailors working together towards an ocean crossing.
Safety first
The ship is being prepared and equipped to offshore standards, with required training before departure.
Multiple phases
From coastal navigation to the great Atlantic crossing — choose the legs that suit you.
Become part of the core team
A small core group of participants is being formed for the preparation and execution. This Founding Crew commits to the project and has priority for participation in legs.
- Contributes to project planning
- Participates in preparations
- Has priority for leg participation
- Commits to the programme, including training and a financial contribution
News and articles
Read the latest developments around Ocean Challenge 2027.
Ready for the challenge?
Want to take part in this ocean expedition? Sign up without obligation and we will take you through the introduction process.
Sign up as Founding Crew