100 Days Until SB20 Worlds 2025 in Singapore
by SB20 Class 8 Oct 07:31 PDT
18-25 January 2025
SB20 racing in Singapore © Anna Zykova
It seems like only yesterday we were counting down to the SB20 Worlds in Singapore in February 2021, which ended up being indefinitely postponed due to a global issue.
Fortunately, the SB20 Singapore team has successfully renewed their bid to host the event, rescheduling the SB20 Worlds for January 18 – 25, 2025. With just 100 days remaining, we are excitedly counting down to what is destined to be one of the most impressive SB20 events in the Asia-Pacific region for the SB20 Class.
Last week, the SB20 Singapore team, in collaboration with ONE°15 Marina, held a fundraising gala dinner to support the 2025 World Championships. The gala was well attended, raising a substantial amount to help ensure the event’s success. The strong community backing underscores the excitement for the SB20 Worlds and sets a standard for other SB20 nations to emulate.
The Beautiful Venue
As in 2021, the stunning ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove is committed to hosting the event, offering a luxurious setting for the SB20 World Championships. This modern marina features 272 berths and a well-protected harbor with a complete range of amenities, including hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants just steps away from the ONE15 hotel located near the dock. With its world-class facilities, ONE°15 Marina provides a unique experience for competitors and visitors alike, all within a scenic 15-minute drive from downtown Singapore.
Throughout the years, ONE°15 Marina has established itself as a favored destination for the SB20 fleet, consistently delivering exceptional hospitality and efficient event management. In 2025, sailors can expect a warm reception, accompanied by special promotions and exclusive offers for those coming to Singapore for the event. Among the most popular features is the after-sail bar conveniently located on the pontoon—a perfect place to relax with a cold Heineken (official event sponsor) while sharing tales from the day’s races.
The Local Fleet
The SB20 fleet in Singapore has a solid reputation, with local events frequently drawing over 20 boats at the starting line. The fleet proudly includes teams from two of the nation’s leading universities—the National University of Singapore (NUS) and the Singapore Management University (SMU)—infusing excitement into the competition.
With the support of the Singapore Sailing Federation, SB20 Singapore has become a center for developing young sailing talent, enhancing the level of competition on the water. The regular participation of Australian teams adds to the diversity and challenge present in this fleet, turning every event into an exhilarating international occasion.
And, of course, it’s not solely about racing; this fleet knows how to celebrate! Expect fierce competition on the water followed by a vibrant atmosphere and exciting social gatherings ashore.
The Sailing Conditions
Sailing conditions in Singapore have been the subject of much speculation. In reality, the Singapore Strait provides a unique set of challenges. With its equatorial climate, it offers consistently warm temperatures and a blend of demanding conditions. In January, sailors can look forward to favorable weather ranging from 27-31°C, coupled with high humidity.
Typically, winds are influenced by the Northeast Monsoon, resulting in moderate to strong breezes of 10 to 20 knots, which create dynamic racing conditions. The sea state is generally moderate, with occasional choppy waves. Tidal currents can significantly impact race strategies. With rapid weather changes, which may include brief but intense rain showers, sailors will need to be ready for various tactical challenges while at sea.
The 2025 Entries
With over 50 boats expected to compete, the SB20 Singapore team is already actively preparing for the arrival of the first boats. GAC Pindar, the event’s logistics partner, along with SB20 Singapore, has organized subsidized shipping from major European ports to ensure timely arrivals for the competition.
For those who have arranged early shipping for their boats, several warm-up events are on the agenda, including the SB20 Singapore Nationals on December 7-8, 2024, followed by the Asia Pacific Championships and Asian Grand Slam from January 9-12, 2025.
Several prominent SB20 teams have already confirmed their participation, including 2023 World Champion Will Sargent, sailing with skipper Paul McCartney on Porco Rosso, as well as 2024 World Champion Charlotte Borghesi and her team Kidzink. With just under three months to go, we are eager to see more top teams join this event, brought to life once again through the dedication of the SB20 Singapore association, ONE°15 Marina, and Singapore Sailing.
The 2025 SB20 World Championships will be hosted from January 18-25, 2025, at ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore.
For all details about the event, please visit worlds2025.sb20class.org
