Viking Explorers Rally Hosts Live Webinar with Fleet Mid-Atlantic
by Viking Explorers Rally 31 Jan 03:39 UTC
25 January 2026
New affordable satellite technologies enable real-time communication with sailors crossing the Atlantic, enhancing safety and community at sea.
The Viking Explorers Rally has hosted a live online get-together with rally participants while they are actively crossing the Atlantic Ocean. The event, held as a webinar with sailors currently mid-ocean, represents a significant step forward in the use of new, affordable satellite communication technologies at sea and in rallies.
Until recently, real-time communication of this kind was virtually unimaginable for most sailors, limited by extremely high costs and access only to specialized satellite systems. Over the past few years, however, the rally has begun integrating new-generation communication technologies that are now accessible at a far more affordable price point. Of course, we are talking about Starlink.
While the technology is not yet 100% fail-proof, making it essential to always maintain a secondary means of communication, it already represents a transformative shift for offshore sailing, in safety and connection. " This is actually the 2nd year we do these webinars, and it's overwhelming to see our participants and talk to them. More and more sailors are using this now, but I would always suggest having a backup, like an Iridium Go or Garmin Inreach", says Oliver Solanas Heinrichs, managing director for the Viking Explorers Rally.
The mid-Atlantic webinar allowed organizers to check in with crews in real time, hear firsthand about conditions at sea, and reinforce the sense of community that defines the Viking Explorers Rally, even when participants are thousands of miles from land. In terms of conditions, the fleet reported relatively light winds and short-period waves, making for somewhat uncomfortable seas, but overall spirits remain high and crews are enjoying the experience.
The team was amazed by the remarkable spirit on board S/Y Agape, where Captain John Blakeman joined the mid-Atlantic webinar smiling, even as he shared that he had just climbed down from the mast after dealing with a destroyed spinnaker. Adding to the memorable moments of the crossing, Kelly Jones aboard S/Y Casa de Brelly also celebrated her birthday in the middle of the Atlantic, underscoring the positive energy and camaraderie within the fleet. Amir Mersik, captain of S/Y Relax, reported some great fishing, having caught a good Mahi Mahi.
Adding a special touch to the event, Zara Tremlett, Port Louis Marina Manager, joined the webinar to personally wish the sailors fair winds and a safe crossing, a moment warmly received by the crews at sea.
This initiative highlights an important safety benefit. Real-time communication enables better situational awareness, quicker information sharing, and increased reassurance for sailors, organizers, and families alike. As the Viking Explorers Rally continues to embrace innovation, this successful mid-Atlantic connection demonstrates how modern technology is reshaping long-distance sailing, making it safer, more connected, and more human than ever before. (some sailors might also say... it has destroyed the feeling of offshore sailing)
The fleet is making good progress towards the shores of Grenada, the Spice Island of the Caribbean, with good steady trade winds.
You can follow the fleet at forecast.predictwind.com/tracking/rally/vikingexplorersrally2026
To know more about the rally visit www.vikingexplorersrally.com