Question 1

Who is this project for?

Accepted Answer

Ocean Challenge 2027 is aimed at coastal sailors who want to make the step to offshore and ocean sailing. Whether you already have experience with longer voyages or mainly coastal experience — the preparation programme is set up to get you ready for the ocean.

Question 2

Am I a passenger or a crew member?

Accepted Answer

You are a crew member, not a passenger. All participants actively contribute to the preparation and execution: from watch keeping and navigation to cooking and maintenance. That is exactly what sets Ocean Challenge apart from a charter trip.

Question 3

What exactly is a Founding Crew member?

Accepted Answer

Founding Crew members are the first participants to commit to the project while it is still taking shape. They help think it through, get first choice when reserving legs, and help build the crew and the plans.

Question 4

Can I join for just one leg?

Accepted Answer

Yes, that is the idea. The expedition consists of several legs — from the passage to Southern Europe and the Canary Islands to the big Atlantic crossing and the Caribbean part. Each leg is an adventure in its own right. Founding Crew members have first choice when reserving spots.

Question 5

How do I sign up?

Accepted Answer

Use the sign-up form on the Founding Crew page to let us know you want to take part. Signing up is without obligation: it is a first step to start a conversation, not a definitive commitment.

Question 6

Do I need offshore experience to participate?

Accepted Answer

No, offshore experience is not a hard requirement. Ocean Challenge 2027 is specifically designed for coastal sailors who want to step up to offshore and ocean sailing. The preparation programme covers all aspects, including offshore sailing, watch keeping, navigation, safety and emergencies.

Question 7

How much time do I need to invest in preparation?

Accepted Answer

Expect regular joint activities: training sessions, sailing days and work days on the ship. Plus individual preparation such as taking a first aid course, self-study on weather and navigation, and building physical fitness. The exact programme is decided together with the crew.

Question 8

Do I need to be physically fit?

Accepted Answer

A reasonable base level of fitness helps. Ocean sailing involves working on a moving deck, standing watches in changing conditions and sometimes physical effort. The preparation programme is partly aimed at building you up for this step by step.

Question 9

What if I get seasick?

Accepted Answer

Many people are a little seasick during the first days and then get used to the motion. During preparation and on board we pay attention to dealing with seasickness. Not sure? Shorter training passages are a good way to find out how your body reacts.

Question 10

What will participation cost?

Accepted Answer

The exact cost is currently being worked out and depends on the number of participants, the chosen legs and the total project costs. We aim for transparency and will communicate all amounts as soon as the structure is clear. There are currently no fixed or guaranteed prices.

Question 11

Is the financial contribution refundable?

Accepted Answer

The contribution is in principle non-refundable, because it is used to cover project costs incurred in advance. The precise terms will be set out once the structure is final.

Question 12

What is included in the contribution?

Accepted Answer

Exactly what the contribution covers is being worked out and discussed with participants. The project is still in the concept phase; once the budget and structure are in place, we will communicate clearly about this.

Question 13

What is the route?

Accepted Answer

The intended route runs from the Netherlands via the Canary Islands to the Caribbean, a total of over 4,500 nautical miles. The route is made up of several legs, so you can choose the part that suits you. The exact ports and stopovers are being worked out further.

Question 14

When does the expedition depart?

Accepted Answer

The expedition is planned around 2027. Because the project is still in the concept phase, the exact dates are not yet fixed. Founding Crew members are the first to be informed as the planning becomes more concrete.

Question 15

How long does the Atlantic crossing take?

Accepted Answer

An Atlantic crossing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean usually takes around two to three weeks, depending on wind and weather. The precise planning depends on the chosen route and conditions.

Question 16

Are the dates already fixed?

Accepted Answer

No. The project is still in the concept phase and the final dates will be determined as preparation progresses. We will communicate this carefully as soon as more is clear.

Question 17

What does the watch system look like?

Accepted Answer

At sea we work with watches, for example four hours on and eight hours off. This way there is always crew active and everyone gets enough rest. The exact schedule is tailored to the crew and the conditions.

Question 18

Where do I sleep on board?

Accepted Answer

The Mariflex Challenge offers berths suitable for use at sea. It is simple but functional: a dry bunk after a wet watch is one of the small luxuries along the way.

Question 19

What about food and water?

Accepted Answer

Cooking is done together on board in the galley. Water for the voyage is carried along; the exact capacity and provisioning are calculated during preparation.

Question 20

Is there internet or communication on board?

Accepted Answer

In the middle of the ocean there is no regular internet. Communication beyond VHF range goes via satellite communications, which is part of the equipment plan. Expect limited connectivity — that is part of the adventure.

Question 21

How safe is an ocean crossing?

Accepted Answer

Safety comes first in every phase of the project. It starts with the choice of a robust steel ship and a thorough equipment plan, and continues through to the training of every crew member. Ocean sailing remains adventurous, but with good preparation risks are limited as much as possible.

Question 22

What safety equipment will be on board?

Accepted Answer

The equipment plan includes a life raft, EPIRB, personal PLBs, satellite communications, an AIS transponder, jacklines and a comprehensive first aid kit. The exact equipment will be finalised and certified during preparation.

Question 23

What happens in emergencies?

Accepted Answer

Every crew member goes through a preparation programme including man-overboard procedures, first aid at sea and emergency procedures such as fire and taking on water. We practise on board so everyone knows what to do.

Question 24

Is this a commercial charter trip?

Accepted Answer

No. Ocean Challenge 2027 is not a commercial charter trip. It is a joint expedition project where all participants actively contribute to the preparation and execution. You are not a guest on board, but part of the crew.

Question 25

Who organises this expedition?

Accepted Answer

The expedition is an initiative supported by Demarage Sailing Centre in Dinteloord, together with involved partners. Demarage specialises in sailing training and offshore sailing.

Question 26

What kind of ship is the Mariflex Challenge?

Accepted Answer

The Mariflex Challenge is a 67-foot steel sailing yacht from the Challenge series, a class originally designed for round-the-world races. The ship is currently being prepared and equipped for the Ocean Challenge and long offshore passages.

Question 27

What phase is the project in now?

Accepted Answer

Ocean Challenge 2027 is currently in the concept phase. The route, planning, costs and equipment are being worked out further. By signing up now as Founding Crew you help think it through and build the project with us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Participation

Experience & preparation

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Route & planning

Life on board

Safety

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