Spectators hoping to watch Route du Rhum finishers come home in Guadeloupe will need to plan carefully, with organisers imposing speed limits and no-go zones around the island from 6 November to 3 December 2026.
Two regulated zones, labelled A and B, will be in force for the duration. Vessel speed is capped at 10 knots within their boundaries, and tracking race boats inside the zones is banned outright. Anyone planning to follow the fleet in by water should check the official chart before leaving the dock.
Extra care is required between Basse-Terre and Le Gosier, where night navigation is banned from 6pm to 6am on 6-9 November and again on 13-16 November.
Entering the safety bubbles set up around competing boats is strictly forbidden, as is straying into the protected zone around the Basse-Terre course buoy.
Organisers are steering spectators towards the dedicated viewing areas, the "stades nautiques" at Basse-Terre and Pointe-à-Pitre, as the best way to soak up the finish-line atmosphere without compromising safety.
Before heading out, skippers are reminded to check their safety gear, wear a lifejacket, and keep a listening watch on VHF channel 16.
In an emergency, contact CROSS on VHF channel 16 or by phone on 196.
Organisers have published a map of the regulated zones and full navigation guidelines for this 13th edition of the race. With the rules known in advance, spectators and local boat owners can plan ahead and enjoy the arrivals safely.
