Barcolana Trieste: the Largest Sailing Race in the World

The biggest sailing race in the world

The Gulf of Trieste hosts the world's most popular maritime festival every second Sunday in October, with over 2,000 boats and 30,000 people at sea.

With 2,689 boats registered for the 50th anniversary edition (in 2018), the sailing race was entered in the Guinness Book of Records as the "Largest Sailing Race".

Its distinguishing feature is that it welcomes both experienced and novice sailors on boats of varied sizes, which are then classified into divisions.

The story of the regatta

The finish line is located on a stretch of sea in front of the stately Piazza Unità d'Italia, where spectators can watch the competing sails.

The unique topography of the area surrounding the Gulf of Trieste provides a plethora of viewing points for the breathtaking competition, stretching all the way to the Karst peaks and creating a natural "sailing stadium".

Trieste events

The festival has a natural impact on Trieste, which transforms itself for the entire weekend with side activities, shows and music.

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