Sailing on a Volvo Ocean Race Yacht
Spend a day sailing on a Volvo Ocean Race Yacht
Experience an unforgettable sailing day on a Volvo Ocean Race Yacht – Enjoy the Volvo Race Experience led by world champion and world record holder Hans Bouscholte.
Ever wondered what it feels like to glide over the water on a real Volvo Ocean Race yacht? Step aboard for a unique and adrenaline-filled day of sailing.
During this exclusive day, you’ll not only have the chance to sail yourself on one of the fastest yachts in the world, but also to learn from a world-class professional. Hans will guide you through life on board with inspiring stories, tactical insights, and, of course, plenty of action on the water.
What can you expect during a day of Ocean Race sailing on a Volvo Ocean Race yacht?
- Sailing on a Volvo 60 or VO70: pure power, speed, and precision
- Active participation in sailing – steering, grinding, and trimming under guidance
- Professional instruction and support from Hans Bouscholte himself
- Suitable for all ages, no prior experience needed
- A day full of fun and adventure
Book your spot on board now and experience the ultimate sailing adventure!
Individually or with a small group – an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
'If you can dream it, you can do it!'
Dreaming of an adventure on the open sea, or looking for a unique, inspiring experience for your team or organization? Holland Ocean Racing makes it possible. We offer sailing trips, corporate events, teambuilding, lectures, and training sessions aboard an impressive ocean racer: a 20-meter professional yacht built for the world’s most challenging sailing competitions.
This yacht – which once sailed under the name Silk Cut in the famous 1997 Whitbread Round the World Race (the predecessor of today’s The Ocean Race, better known as the Volvo Ocean Race) – has a rich history. In that same year, Hans Bouscholte, founder and coach of Holland Ocean Racing, also participated in the race aboard the Brunel Sunergy. His experience and passion continue to form the heart of our team.
At the core of our mission is the Ocean Races Academy, which offers both young and older participants the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in offshore sailing. Through hands-on training, coaching, and participation in leading races, we prepare our talents for the highest level of ocean sailing.
Whether you’re seeking an unforgettable experience at sea or taking the first step toward a professional sailing career, Holland Ocean Racing is the place to be.
Become a top Ocean Race sailor
Are you ready to sail an Ocean Race and take your skills to the next level? At Holland Ocean Racing, the leading sailing school, we offer you the ultimate opportunity to learn from the best. Under the guidance of Hans Bouscholte, world champion and Ocean Race skipper, we provide sailing courses designed to prepare you for participation in a major sailing race.
Why Choose Holland Ocean Racing?
- Expertise of Hans Bouscholte: Learn from a master! With years of experience and countless victories, Hans Bouscholte guides you through our programs. His knowledge and passion for sailing are unmatched.
- Hands-on Training: Our courses are designed to help you learn as quickly as possible. With plenty of practical training miles, you’ll improve fast.
- Competitive Edge: Participate in challenging races and competitions. Learn to perform under pressure and develop the technical and team skills that set you apart from the competition.
- Innovative Techniques: Stay up to date with the latest sailing technologies and techniques. Our training is always current, so you learn with the best tools and methods.
- Mentoring and Coaching: At Holland Ocean Racing, you receive personal guidance and coaching. Our team is always ready to support and motivate you.
- Networking Opportunities: Meet other passionate sailors and build valuable connections. The sailing community at Holland Ocean Racing is close-knit and supportive.
Choose Holland Ocean Racing and take your sailing skills to the next level at our sailing school!
Guided by Volvo Ocean Racer Hans Bouscholte
Our sailing courses
What You Can Expect as Standard Within the Academy:
Intensive hands-on training at sea
Guidance from professional sailors and coaches
Access to participate in major offshore races
n binnen de Academy:
Personal coaching focused on your goals
Discount on professional sailing gear via Helly Hansen
Member of an ambitious, close-knit team sharing the same passion
Rising 20's
- Goal: Become a top sailor
- Price: 1.500 euro/year
- Training: 2 weekends each month
- National races on Farr 30
- International races on Volvo 60
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Driven 30's
- Goal: Train to become a race sailor
- Price: 3.500 euro/year
- Training: 1,5 weekend each month
- National races on Farr 30
- International races on Volvo 60
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Roaring 40's
- Goal: Learn to sail at a high level
- Price: 7.500 euro/year
- Training: 1 weekend each month
- International races on Volvo 60
- Automatic Selection
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Theory courses
- Meteorology course
- Routing, Squid en Adrena
- Personal Safety&Survival OPST
- Sail handling & Rigging
- Navigation
- Tactics
- Masterclasses by Hans Bouscholte
Rising 20's
- Goal: Become a top sailor
- Price: 1.500 euro/year
- Training: 2 weekends each month
- National races on Farr 30
- International races on Volvo 60
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Driven 30's
- Goal: Train to become a race sailor
- Price: 3.500 euro/year
- Training: 1,5 weekend each month
- National races on Farr 30
- International races on Volvo 60
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Roaring 40's
- Goal: Learn to sail at a high level
- Price: 7.500 euro/year
- Training: 1 weekend each month
- International races on Volvo 60
- Automatic Selection
- Theory training
- Helping with maintenance and innovation
Trainees testimonials
My sailing experience was limited, especially when it came to all the terms used on board, the numerous lines, and the many different sails. When I joined as a trainee, I was 14 years old—the youngest by far on the team. I realized I had to give 300% to keep up with the team and learn as much as possible. Fortunately, the team, including the coaches and skipper(s), was very friendly and eager to explain everything. In my first years, I learned a lot, mostly by making mistakes and learning from them.
Nick Steenbergen
Voordekker
I spent four years as a trainee at Holland Ocean Racing. Before I started, my sailing experience was mostly limited to dinghies and small keelboats. During my time at Holland Ocean Racing, however, I gained extensive knowledge of offshore sailing on an ocean racing yacht. I learned about the various roles on board, how they work together, and how to perform tasks efficiently while collaborating closely with the team. I developed skills on the foredeck, optimized sail trim, learned steering, navigation, maintenance, and much more.
Marleen Zondervan
Pit en Zeiltrim
I was part of the team from the end of 2021 to the end of 2024 and thoroughly enjoyed the three years with the team. I started as a beginner offshore sailor, with a single Trans-Atlantic crossing as my main experience. The training and races over these years taught me a great deal—from foredeck to helmsman, and from trimmer to watch leader. I learned to collaborate effectively and develop into a professional.
Mentally, I experienced what a top-level sports mindset entails and what you must sacrifice to achieve results. This is something I will carry with me forever.
My best race with Holland Ocean Racing was the Fastnet 2023. It had it all: the team was in top form, we overcame every challenge, and achieved an excellent result.
A memorable moment was my first Lightvessel Race, where a faulty sheet broke the railing on deck. Everyone worked together to repair it as quickly as possible and get back on course to sail the North Sea Race to England.
I now have a Mini 6.50. My next step is to sail the Mini-Transat. My ultimate goal is the Vendée Globe, so I will continue to grow through various projects and classes to achieve that. The Mini-Transat is an ideal starting point after my time with Holland Ocean Racing.
Lucas Elderhorst
Zeiltrim
Enjoy the ride
Take part in Ocean Races & sailing trips
Do you dream of taking part in the most prestigious sailing races in the world? Do you want to experience the thrill and adventure of the open sea while competing against the best in the sport? At Holland Ocean Racing, we give you the chance to make these dreams a reality. Step on board and experience the ultimate sailing adventure!
Participate in these famous sailing races
- Fastnet Race: A challenging offshore race from Cowes to Cherbourg via the Fastnet Rock in Ireland, famous for its demanding conditions.
- Sydney Hobart Yacht Race: One of the toughest races in the world, from Sydney to Hobart, facing storms and high waves.
- North Sea and Lightvessel Race: Classic sailing races across the North Sea, navigating currents, wind farms, and maritime traffic.
- Middle Sea Race: A beautiful and demanding race from Malta around Sicily and Lampedusa, finishing back in Malta, renowned for calm periods, storms, and ever-changing conditions.
Corporate Sailing programs
Holland Ocean Racing focuses on offering unique corporate programs that take teams on an adventurous sailing journey.
These programs are designed to inspire, promote team building, and develop leadership skills in a challenging and stimulating environment.
Through hands-on activities at sea, participants have the opportunity to strengthen their skills and create unforgettable experiences.
Team-building sessions can be booked with or without a facilitator. Click at the top under “Corporate Programs” to explore the different options.