This is arguably one of Europe’s premier races that brings so many challenges to racing. Sweden is where you need to be in August. The race is open to all levels of sailors. The race started in 1963 and has been held on the 3rd Saturday of August ever since. The race is 28 nautical miles (52 km).
The Fleet: Approximately 1000 sailing boats sail this race around Tjorn. What could possibly go wrong?
The Race Track: The race starts in Stigfjorden and the race proceeds counterclockwise around the island, with the finishing line in Askeröfjorden outside Stenungsön. There are a number of options with this race that make it extremely challenging or not so much. The challenging option is the island short cut through a passage that translates to the eye of the needle. The names says it all. This is a hazardous section of the race and there have been many errors in judgement recorded over the races history. Both the long way and short cut are both very picturesque ways to sail Sweden.
Challengers: The challenges should not be underestimated. The below video gives some of the examples of things not to do. If you are not familiar with the track, it is best to leave it to others to have the helm in a few critical areas. The track also has a number of smaller islands and areas that produce pulsating wind shear and gusts. The water is cold for those who do not live with snow for a large part of the year. Plan to stay out of the water.
Pre Race: In terms of helpfulness, information, courteous timely responses, I have found this race organisation as a traveler to be the best. The team has been extremely helpful for those interested in getting a ride on a boat or looking to organise a yacht. Brilliant 10 out of 10.
Race Organisers: Tjorn Runt is arranged by Stenungsunds Segelsällskap.
Things to note: The race is extremely popular for both yachting crews and spectators. As a result the accommodation fills up very quickly. There is also a spike in cost if you leave it to the last minute.
The pre and post race activities are generally organised and held at Stenungsbaden yacht Club hotel, located some 200m from the sailing club. The club has very stylish and high standard accommodation, spa packages and restaurant. Web page link: https://www.stenungsbaden.se/en/
There are also a range of other accommodation options that range from very well appointed low cost clean accommodation down to very small [tiny] units with shared and a little more dated amenities if your budgets do not allow for the more expensive locations. Consider your accommodation around proximity to the town Stenungsund for convenience.
Depending on your country of origin, there are times when you may feel cold if you are not used to the weather when watching or taking part in the race. Take your warm gear if you need it and like any other sport, be prepared for rain. Plan for the worst and hope for the best and you will not be disappointed. Accommodation and facilities are designed around the local environments which makes the hanging of wet weather gear or jackets apart of normal life. Take a beanie.
To book early for your accommodation/flights, you might find that race entries are not open and it may be difficult to know if there are yachts available to crew on. The club is very approachable and easy to talk with on social media, with fast responses and they try and assist with all types of inquiries including crewing opportunities through to local information that makes planning a trip a lot easier.
Everyone’s rating
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| Ease of getting a yacht ride | |
| Were sailors friendly & supportive | |
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| Was it a fun location for non sailors? | |
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Authors rating [Before completing the race – all items not rated yet]
| What would you rate this race? | |
| Race committee fast & helpful? | |
| Ease of getting a yacht ride | |
| Were sailors friendly & supportive | |
| Did you have fun? | |
| Was it a fun location for non sailors? | |
| What was entertainment like? | |
| Cost? 1=cheap 5=Expensive | |
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Average
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