If you're fortunate enough to have 16 months to spare for a leisure trip, what kind would you choose and where would you visit? Depending on the activities you enjoy, options may seem limitless, and putting your itinerary together may be headache inducing.
Well, if you like sailing (the bluewater kind), you'll be pleased to know that Oyster Yachts has a ready-made option for you. You don't need to work out the details yourself or reach out to a travel advisor.
Oyster Yachts has announced the Oyster World Rally 2030-31, a 16-month circumnavigation created for Oyster owners and limited to 30 yachts. Beginning in Antigua in January 2030, the rally will cover 27,000 nautical miles across three oceans.
Participants will sail on a route that includes the Galápagos Islands, French Polynesia, Australia's east coast, the islands of the Indian Ocean, South Africa, and Brazil.
Oyster Yachts describes the rally as its flagship supported sailing adventure. The rally combines structured professional backing with the flexibility for owners to shape their own journey.
The yacht maker considered global weather systems when building the route so participants can experience each destination at its best. However, there's some flexibility involved. Participants can opt for independent travel, form smaller groups, or reconnect with the wider fleet along the way.
Richard Hadida, Chairman of Oyster Yachts, who is sailing on the current rally, said it reflects the core of the brand's identity. He noted that Oyster yachts are built to cross oceans safely, comfortably, and in style, and the program showcases that capability while helping owners fulfill their global sailing ambitions.
Preparation for the 2030-31 edition begins 18 months before departure and is included in the entry fee. Owners and crew receive training through in-person workshops, masterclasses, and online seminars covering meteorology, ocean navigation, and yacht systems. Each yacht also receives the Oyster World Rally Guide, which draws on lessons from previous journeys.
Inexperienced sailors don't have much to worry about. Oyster technicians will be stationed at key destinations during the voyage to provide specialist support, while the logistics team will assist with berthing, immigration, customs, and local coordination. A twice-daily fleet Safety Net will operate during major ocean passages, alongside regular position reporting.
For owners considering a new build for the 2030-31 Rally, Oyster recommends allowing three to four years for preparation. The company says yacht construction typically takes between 12 and 24 months, depending on model and specification, followed by a shakedown and familiarization period of around 12 months before positioning for departure from Antigua.
Stefan Zimmermann Zschocke, CEO of Oyster Yachts, said the rally forms an important part of the company's long-term vision, highlighting not only the yachts but also the support system surrounding owners.
Entries for the Oyster World Rally 2030–31 opened on 3 March 2026. Demand is expected to be strong, with places strictly limited and previous editions having filled to capacity. The company added that the Oyster World Rally remains the world's only fully supported bluewater sailing circumnavigation exclusively for Oyster yacht owners.
2030 may seem like a long time away, but remember, a lot goes into preparing for circumnavigation. If you're thinking of building your first sailing yacht for the trip, it's time to get in touch with your broker to put things in motion so you can enjoy what will likely be an unforgettable experience.
