Sailing in the Pacific: how to sail a flotilla in the South Seas
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The dream of sailing in the mythical “South Seas” today is a much more accessible life experience than in the past. Credit is due to flotilla rallies across the Pacific. Here are two not-to-be-missed events organized for 2026.
For a sailor, the evocation of “South Seas” is more than just a geographical expression; it is a primordial call, a promise of freedom and unspoiled beauty. Polynesia, with its myriad volcanic islands and coral atolls scattered like jewels in a turquoise ocean, exerts an irresistible allure on those seeking adventure and connection with nature. Each island is a unique ecosystem, with hidden waterfalls, lush forests and coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Sailing in Polynesia also offers ideal conditions for sailing. Steady, moderate winds are a certainty at certain times of the year, although distances between islands are significant. Between ports of call, however, sailors have the opportunity to meet local communities, discover traditional crafts, sample local cuisine, and participate in authentic festivals and celebrations. Polynesian hospitality is legendary, and meeting local people deeply enriches the travel experience.
In short, Polynesia is not just a destination, it is a life experience. It is a place where time slows down, worries melt away and we reconnect with the beauty and power of nature. For sailors, it is the culmination of a dream, a journey that feeds the soul and leaves an indelible imprint on the heart. Today fulfilling this dream is increasingly within the reach of many, especially thanks to flotilla rallies. Here, for example, are two events you can register for that will take place in 2026.
Read also: Flotilla rally in the Atlantic, Jimmy Cornell’s ingenious idea set the standard
Sailing among the paradise atolls of Polynesia
Sail among the Polynesian atolls scattered in the warm and crystal clear waters of the Pacific. That is the purpose of the transpacific “Pacific Puddle Jump” rally, which with 200 boats each year is one of the most iconic events in ocean sailing. Conceived in 1997 by Andy Turpin, editor-in-chief of Latitude 38 magazine, as an informal sail to reach Polynesia while maintaining each crew’s freedom to sail, over time it has become a much more organized event. As of January 2026, it passes into the hands of Sail Tahiti, which is the Bénéteau Group’s distributor for French Polynesia, but is also a service center, charter agency, and nautical broker. The idea is to increase the level of services offered and meet the expectations of both experienced and novice sailors.
Pacific Puddle Jump 2026
Route: San Diego/La Paz/Panama – Le Marin (Martinique) – Polynesia
Miles: 3,800
Departure: December 31, 2025
Duration: about 50 days
Minimum boat size: not specified
Crew: minimum 2 people
Info: https://ppjrally.com
The rally of Californians wintering in Mexico.
For most West Coast sailors and Latitude 38 Magazine enthusiasts, the Baja Ha-Ha sailing rally needs no introduction. For us Europeans, it is not as famous, but that is a shame because it is a great event. Founded in 1994, it is a gathering of cruising boats along a route from San Diego (California) to Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) that marks the beginning of the winter season in the warmer regions of Mexico. Virtually all participants are welcome, and the fleet regularly includes boats from 20 to 80 feet, from racers to cruisers of all types and tonnage. The camaraderie and friendliness in the group of participants is renowned, and the success of the event is evident: as many as 150 boats registered in the last edition.
Baja Ha-Ha 2026
Route: San Diego (USA) – Cabo San Lucas (Mexico) – Bahia Tortugas/Bahia Santa Maria (Mexico)
Miles: 750 miles
Departure: November 2026
Duration: about one month
Minimum boat size: 27 feet (about 8 m)
Crew: minimum 2 people
Info: www.baja-haha.com
David Ingiosi
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