From 16 to 20 August 2025, it's "cast off" again for the Störtebeker Opti-Cup on Heligoland. The unique offshore regatta attracts young sailors to Germany's only offshore island in the middle of the North Sea. Over three days of racing, the talented young Optimist sailors compete on real open sea waters - an experience that is unique in this form. But the SOC offers much more than just exciting races: It combines sporting challenges with unforgettable nature experiences and a strong sense of community. And best of all: there are still places available!
Travelling and logistics
Travelling to the Störtebeker Opti-Cup is the first adventure. On 15 August, trailer handover begins at 5 pm in Cuxhaven. The following morning, the trailers will be loaded onto a freighter from 6 am. The young sailors and accompanying persons start their crossing at 10.30 a.m. on the MS Helgoland. This special journey across the sea creates an atmosphere of anticipation even before the actual event.
Programme and highlights
The Störtebeker Opti-Cup offers a packed programme full of highlights. The regatta days, on which up to nine races are held, take place from Sunday to Tuesday. The young sailors compete on challenging terrain and gain valuable experience on the high seas. In addition to the sporting challenges, unique nature experiences await the participants. They have the opportunity to explore Heligoland and the dunes, and may even encounter seals.
General conditions and support
The Störtebeker Opti-Cup places great emphasis on safety and supervision. Participation without a coach or parents is not possible, as full-time supervision cannot be offered. However, parents can also be on the water without a coach, as no participant is left alone thanks to a sophisticated safety system. Each coach boat, functional boat or one of the three DLRG motorboats serves as a point of contact for participants with worries, problems or needs. For those who would like a coach, there is the option of open regatta support from the Sailing Association Schleswig-Holstein e.V. to book.
Accommodation and catering
A special privilege for the participants of the Störtebeker Opti-Cup is the opportunity to camp on Heligoland. This exclusive accommodation option contributes significantly to the community experience. The physical well-being is well catered for: all-round catering with food and drink is included in the entry fee. Participants can also use the swimming pool and the dune ferry free of charge.
Closing and award ceremony
The crowning finale of the Störtebeker Opti Cup is the award ceremony on Tuesday evening. Not only will the sporting achievements be honoured here, but there will also be a raffle. No-one is guaranteed to go away empty-handed - a wonderful conclusion that emphasises the community spirit of the event. On Wednesday, 20 August, the participants have a day off on Heligoland before the return journey on the MS Helgoland at 5 pm.
Practical information:
Journey:
- Ferry: MS Helgoland from Cuxhaven to Helgoland
- Boat transport: Freighter (Kümo) from Cuxhaven to Helgoland for Opti and motorboat trailer
Dates:
- Event period: 16 - 20 August 2025
- Trailer delivery: 15 August from 5 p.m. in Cuxhaven
- Loading: 16 August from 6 am
- Passenger transport: 16 August at 10:30 am
Regatta:
- race days: Sunday to Tuesday
- Number of races: Up to 9
Accommodation:
- Camping: Free of charge on Heligoland (exclusively for participants)
Catering:
- Full catering: Breakfast and dinner included
Additional services:
- Free use: Swimming pool and dune ferry
Costs:
- Entry fee: 190,- Euro
- Included: Ferry ticket, Opti transport, full board (breakfast + dinner), free use of the swimming pool and the dune ferry
free camping on the island of Heligoland!
Support:
- Required: Participation only with trainer or parents
- Optional: Open regatta support bookable through Segler-Verband Schleswig-Holstein e.V.
Security:
- Contact points: Trainer boats, functional boats, 3 DLRG motorboats
Programme:
- Award ceremony: Tuesday evening with tombola
- Layday: Wednesday, 20 August
- Return journey: Wednesday, 20 August at 5 pm
