Now in its fourth year, the Northeast Ocean Racing Symposium is a day of lectures, panels, and networking centered around all things offshore. Hosted annually in March, it’s the perfect time for serious racers to reconnect with their community and get excited about the coming season.
The organizers have announced that solo ocean racer Ronnie Simpson will be this year’s keynote speaker. Simpson, a combat wounded veteran, is an advocate for US Patriot sailing who has used his offshore campaigns to raise funds and awareness for the organization. In 2024, he competed in the Global Solo Challenge and was weeks away from a podium finish when he dismasted in an Atlantic storm and was forced to abandon his boat. Simpson is currently campaigning for a second shot at the Global Solo Challenge, planning to be back on the starting line in 2027.
Other topics for this year’s conference include heavy weather management, leadership at sea, optimizing downwind sailing, engine prep, and sustainability offshore, each led by an expert in their field. Snacks and lunch are provided, and breaks between sessions offer ample time for networking perusing the booths of various marine businesses that support the event. Last year, breakout sessions for different races ensured that sailors shooting for each of New England’s major offshore races had their own opportunities to learn more and network.
The symposium is co-sponsored by four major offshore races based in New England–The Marion-Bermuda, Newport-Bermuda, Marblehead-Halifax, and Bermuda One-Two races.
For more on the 2026 program or to sign up for your tickets, click here.
