A high-stakes European tour is about to begin for Team Malizia, as they prepare to take on The Ocean Race Europe 2025. This prestigious event will test both the endurance of the sailors and the cutting-edge technology of their vessels.
The race: A month-long sprint across Europe
Starting on Sunday, August 10, in Kiel, Germany, a fleet of seven state-of-the-art IMOCA boats will embark on a 4,500-nautical-mile journey. This month-long sprint will challenge crews to navigate the choppy waters of the English Channel before finishing in the calm of the Adriatic at Boka Bay, Montenegro. The race is an intense mix of tactics and strategy, with teams constantly balancing speed against the need to preserve their boats.
Meet the crew of Malizia – Seaexplorer
At the helm of the Monegasque-backed Malizia – Seaexplorer is the seasoned German skipper Boris Herrmann. A veteran of six circumnavigations, Herrmann has already secured top-five finishes in two Vendée Globes and a podium spot in the 2022–23 Ocean Race. His crew is a powerhouse of talent, bringing together a diverse group of sailing experts.
Joining Herrmann are:
- Will Harris (UK): A long-time member of the Malizia team.
- Francesca Clapcich (Italy): The first Italian woman to win The Ocean Race.
- Justine Mettraux (Switzerland): A two-time global race winner.
- Cole Brauer (USA): A record-breaking solo sailor.
- Loïs Berrehar (France): A rising star in the sailing world.
More than a race boat: A floating laboratory
The Malizia – Seaexplorer is not just a high-performance vessel; it’s also a scientific research tool. Equipped with advanced sensors, the yacht measures crucial ocean health data in real time, including CO₂ levels and microplastic density. This dual-purpose design allows Team Malizia to combine elite racing with a commitment to environmental research, continuing their mission to raise awareness about the state of our oceans.
With 11 Vendée Globe veterans and multiple Ocean Race winners in the fleet, the competition is fierce. The journey from the Solent to the Spanish coast, and on to the Adriatic, promises to be a thrilling test of skill and resilience for all involved.
