Island Cruising has officially launched the Pacific Rally 2025, with the inaugural group of New Zealand participants departing from Marsden Cove and the Bay of Islands on May 10th. Their journey will cover approximately 1,100 nautical miles, taking around a week to reach destinations including Tonga, Fiji, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia.
In the week leading up to the rally, crews gathered at the marinas to finalize preparations and engage in social events designed to foster camaraderie. The rally’s extensive program included valuable sessions on sea repairs, fishing tips, and insights from various marine businesses, ensuring all participants are well-equipped for their adventure.
Over the past nine months, participants have benefited from a thorough training regimen covering safety, navigation, and crew logistics. This comprehensive approach has included webinars from industry experts, checklists for keeping track of preparations, and detailed guidebooks, enhancing their understanding of what to expect during their voyage.
The flexibility of the rally allows participants to choose their own departure dates and specific island destinations within the Pacific. This year, more than 175 vessels are registered for the event, comprising a diverse fleet with varying sizes and types, from monohulls to powerboats. Notably, the rally has attracted 47 children and 18 women skippers, showcasing diversity and inclusion in sailing.
A unique component of the rally is its partnership with Citizens of the Sea, inviting participants to volunteer for ocean eDNA sampling efforts. Last season, volunteers collected over 600 samples, contributing to valuable scientific research on ocean changes.
Viki Moore, managing director of Island Cruising, is currently managing the rally remotely while undergoing treatment for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. She emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams and seizing opportunities for adventure, stating that life is short and encouraging those interested in cruising not to delay their plans.
The entry fee for the Pacific Rally is NZD$1795 per vessel, which can be easily recouped through the various discounts offered by participating marine businesses. The positive feedback from participants reflects the community and safety aspects of the rally, fostering a supportive environment as sailors embark on this exciting journey.
Island Cruising has a long-standing history in organizing yacht rallies in the South Pacific and continues to offer new opportunities with plans for the 2026 Pacific Rally launching this July. The organization also provides a membership program for those aspiring to sail offshore in the future.
This rally epitomizes not only the spirit of sailing adventure but also emphasizes community, collaboration, and shared experiences, making it a remarkable event in the sailing calendar. As participants set sail, they embody the excitement and exploration inherent in ocean cruising while contributing to environmental stewardship through their partnerships.