World Sailing's Steering the Course women's sailing festival returns in 2026 across two separate windows: the first running from 22 to 31 May, and the second from 25 September to 4 October.
Now in its sixth edition, the festival has adopted the 2026 International Women's Day theme "Give to Gain", focusing on supporting women and girls to progress as athletes, coaches, race officials and leaders across the sport.
Two technical courses have been allocated to specific host nations. Iceland will deliver a Race Officer Course Level 1, while Brazil takes on a Technical Course for Coaches Level 1. Additional events in South Africa, Bolivia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Hong Kong will promote sailing opportunities for women and girls.
Sailability Hong Kong returns for the sixth consecutive year. Since the festival first launched, the organisation has introduced more than 6,500 women to sailing through its involvement.
Fiona Kidd, Head of International Development, put the festival's theme plainly: "When we give our time, our expertise, and our encouragement, we strengthen our sport. Every course taught, every new sailor we welcome, and every story we hear helps sailing become more inclusive."
Clubs, organisations and individuals taking part are encouraged to document their involvement and submit photos, videos and stories to training@sailing.org. World Sailing will share content from participating countries and clubs across its social media channels, with #SteeringTheCourse connecting the global community around the festival.
