Route du Rhum 2026 in Saint-Malo: The Legend Sets Sail Again

Every four years, Saint-Malo becomes the stage for an extraordinary maritime adventure. From 20 October to 1 November 2026, the historic Corsair City will host the 13th edition of the Route du Rhum – Destination Guadeloupe, one of the world’s most famous solo transatlantic sailing races.

For this exceptional occasion, Saint-Malo’s quays, docks and ramparts will come alive with magnificent racing yachts, encounters with the skippers and the enthusiasm of the crowds. Just a few minutes from this maritime excitement, Château du Colombier, a charming hotel in Saint-Malo, invites you to experience the event while enjoying the tranquillity and elegance of a historic residence surrounded by greenery.

What Is the Route du Rhum?

Created in 1978, the Route du Rhum is a solo transatlantic sailing race. Held every four years, it links Saint-Malo in Brittany with Pointe-à-Pitre in Guadeloupe, following a route of approximately 3,542 nautical miles, or nearly 6,560 kilometres across the Atlantic Ocean.

What makes this race so distinctive is the exceptional diversity of its fleet. On the same starting line, immense Ultim trimarans compete alongside the famous IMOCA monohulls, Ocean Fifty multihulls, Class40 yachts and, for the 2026 edition, Vintage monohulls and multihulls. Professional sailors, legendary figures of ocean racing and passionate amateurs face the winds, Atlantic depressions and vastness of the ocean entirely alone.

More than a sporting competition, the Route du Rhum is a remarkable human adventure, an invitation to set sail and a symbol of freedom deeply rooted in Saint-Malo’s maritime identity.

A Race That Made History in 1978

The Route du Rhum was conceived by Michel Etevenon as an open transatlantic race, bringing together monohulls and multihulls without any restrictions on boat size. The first edition departed from Saint-Malo on 5 November 1978, with 38 sailors taking part.

That inaugural race immediately entered sailing history. After 23 days at sea, Canadian sailor Mike Birch, aboard his small trimaran Olympus Photo, won the race by just 98 seconds, narrowly defeating Michel Malinovsky’s large monohull Kriter V. This spectacular finish established the Route du Rhum as one of the major events in offshore sailing.

Since then, some of the world’s most celebrated sailors have added their names to its list of winners, including Florence Arthaud, Laurent Bourgnon, Loïck Peyron, Francis Joyon and Charles Caudrelier, winner of the 2022 edition and holder of the current crossing record.

Over the decades, the Route du Rhum has accompanied the evolution of naval architecture while preserving its original spirit: that of a demanding, popular and profoundly human race.

Route du Rhum 2026 Dates in Saint-Malo

The Route du Rhum 2026 Village will open in Saint-Malo on Tuesday, 20 October 2026. For thirteen days, nearly 70,000 square metres of exhibition and entertainment areas around the docks and at the foot of the ramparts will welcome visitors.

Guests will be able to admire the racing yachts, discover the different classes of boats, meet the teams and skippers, enjoy a varied programme of activities and immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere linking Brittany with the shores of Guadeloupe.

The official start of the race will take place on Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 1.02 pm, off the Pointe du Grouin in Cancale. This spectacular occasion will be one of Saint-Malo’s major events of the year, as an exceptional fleet sets sail before thousands of spectators gathered along the coast and out on the water.

Saint-Malo Comes Alive for the Route du Rhum

During the fortnight leading up to the start, the entire Corsair City is transformed. The quays come alive, flags flutter in the sea breeze and the silhouettes of the yachts stand proudly against the granite ramparts. From the narrow streets of Saint-Malo Intra-Muros to the harbour, the Route du Rhum creates an atmosphere filled with celebration, travel and adventure.

Attending the Route du Rhum in Saint-Malo is also an opportunity to discover a destination shaped by the sea. The ramparts, Sillon Beach, Solidor Tower, the Cité d’Alet and the historic shipowners’ houses tell the story of several centuries of maritime history. Nearby, Cancale and the Pointe du Grouin offer remarkable views over the bay and excellent vantage points from which to follow the opening hours of the race.

Staying at Château du Colombier During the Route du Rhum

To make the most of the Route du Rhum 2026, Château du Colombier welcomes you to a peaceful setting, away from the bustle of the historic centre while remaining close to Saint-Malo and its major attractions.

After a day spent exploring the race village, return to the charm of an elegant residence, the tranquillity of its extensive grounds and the comfort of a four-star hotel. Here, your stay unfolds at the gentle pace of Brittany: a leisurely breakfast, a walk through the park, dinner inspired by regional produce and the pleasure of planning another day in the heart of the Corsair City.

Choosing Château du Colombier for your Route du Rhum stay means combining the excitement of a legendary maritime event with the refined art of living offered by a château hotel near Saint-Malo.

Planning Your Stay for the Route du Rhum 2026

The Route du Rhum traditionally attracts a very large number of visitors. Anyone planning to stay in Saint-Malo between 20 October and 1 November 2026 is therefore advised to book their accommodation well in advance.

Whether you are passionate about sailing, fascinated by Breton heritage or simply curious to witness an exceptional spectacle, the 13th edition promises to transform Saint-Malo into the home port of every ocean dream.

In autumn 2026, let the sea breeze carry you away and experience the Route du Rhum in Saint-Malo from Château du Colombier. Between the excitement of the quays, the majesty of the racing yachts and the serenity of a residence filled with character, your stay in Brittany promises to be truly unforgettable.

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