North Sea Lessons: A Griffin Team Perspective

RORC Griffin Pathway – Will Jarman reports for the Sun Fast 3600 RORC Griffin after the 2025 North Sea Race.

The Griffin Race Team recently embraced the challenge of the North Sea Race, setting off from the Royal Harwich Yacht Club. Their journey began in Hamble with a blustery delivery around Dover and through the Thames Estuary—an exciting new experience for many of the crew, most of whom were sailing in the North Sea for the first time.

Upon arrival, the team received a warm welcome, enjoying a BBQ and sampling local delicacies such as pickled herring at the Royal Harwich Yacht Club.

With a steady 20-knot breeze on the start line for the 157-mile North Sea Race, the team was energised and ready for race day. However, they were soon faced with equipment failure. With a light wind forecast looming, the strategy shifted: reach Smith’s Knoll before the tide turned and the breeze disappeared.

Wind conditions proved elusive, with none of the dramatic shifts that had been forecast. The team made the most of their Code Zero, pushing deeper into the North Sea. Coordination with commercial shipping and careful navigation around exclusion zones ensured safe and efficient progress.

The Griffin Race Team crossed the finish line at midday and made their way into The Hague, welcomed by the rest of the fleet for a well-earned debrief at Clubhuis Jachtclub Scheveningen.

A special congratulations goes to Rob Craigie and RORC Commodore Deb Fish, who claimed victory aboard Bellino. Their superb performance set the tone for a memorable race and celebration among the international sailing community.

Thank you to both the Royal Harwich Yacht Club and Clubhuis Jachtclub Scheveningen for your generous hospitality. We’re sure the Griffin team will be back next year!

Next stop: the Yarmouth Regatta. Fair winds to all competing.