The Ocean Race Europe 2025

What to Do

The Ocean Race Europe 2025 Fly-By Matosinhos

On August 20, 2025, Matosinhos will host one of the most exciting moments in world sailing: the Ocean Race Europe Fly-By.

A unique opportunity to see the spectacular IMOCA boats tearing through the waters off our coast at impressive speeds.

For a few hours, the Porto Cruise Terminal is transformed into a privileged stage for a spectacle of speed, precision and energy, all in a free environment, open to the community and with activities for all ages.

What is the Ocean Race?

The Ocean Race Europe is one of the most prestigious ocean races in the world, a true nautical marathon that covers thousands of nautical miles, connecting European cities and pushing the human and technological capabilities of modern sailing to the limit.

After the success of the first edition in 2021, the 2025 edition promises to raise the bar even higher. Starting in Kiel (Germany) and finishing in Genoa (Italy), the race crosses the continent with strategic stops in Portsmouth, Cartagena, Nice, Boka Bay and... Matosinhos, which hosts a unique moment: the Fly-By, a technical and sporting stop halfway through the most challenging stage of the competition.

Taking part in this race are the innovative IMOCA 60 boats, true high-performance machines equipped with foils that make them “fly” over the waves. With mixed and international crews, each team faces the sea with resilience, strategy and a spirit of overcoming.

RACING WITH PURPOSE - MORE THAN A REGATTA

The Ocean Race is not just a competition, it's a global platform for defending the ocean.

THE TEAMS

The Ocean Race Europe 2025 features the most prestigious teams in international sailing, competing aboard IMOCA 60 boats, true high-performance technological machines that literally “fly” over the sea with their foils.

FLY-BY IN MATOSINHOS

On August 20, 2025, Matosinhos will host one of the most exciting moments of the Ocean Race Europe: the Fly-By, a strategic, high-speed passage of the sailboats along the coast, which counts towards the race's score.

For a few hours, the IMOCA 60 boats will appear on the horizon, approach the coast at impressive speeds, maneuver near the course mark and return to the open sea. All this in broad daylight and within sight of everyone.

This event puts Matosinhos on the international map for nautical sports and tourism. It's an opportunity to show the world our capacity to host major events and reinforce our commitment to sustainability and the sea.

Matosinhos, city of sea and innovation

Located between the Atlantic and the heart of the Porto Metropolitan Area, Matosinhos is a city deeply linked to the sea, gastronomy and contemporary architecture.

Renowned for its Atlantic coastline, wide beaches, fishing tradition and strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, Matosinhos is today a vibrant destination where the ocean, culture and creativity go hand in hand.

This is the only Ocean Race Europe event in Portugal and it takes place here, in Matosinhos. We are proud to be the epicenter of this connection to the Atlantic, showing our strong relationship with the sea and nautical activities.

The Ocean is Calling

Whether you're passionate about sailing, curious about the sea or looking for a unique family program, the Ocean Race Europe Fly-By in Matosinhos is a must-see. For two days, the city is transformed into a real seaside theme park, with immersive experiences, live science, entertainment, gastronomy, nautical baptisms and, of course, the spectacular passage of the world's fastest boats.

All this with free admission, by the sea and in a festive atmosphere that celebrates the ocean, knowledge and the thrill of adventure. Come and experience this unique spectacle. The sea awaits you.

It's not just a regatta - it's a celebration of the ocean. We have science, environmental education, culture, gastronomy and experiences for all the family. We want to involve those who live here and those who visit us, transforming Matosinhos into a great ocean festival.