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SailGP’s adrenaline-fueled racing will return to Canada from June 20-21, 2026 when a record number of 13 teams from across the globe go head-to-head for glory, sailing at unbelievable speeds in the center of the Halifax Harbour for all to see. From heart-pounding races to lively street parties, SailGP is bringing the heat to Halifax, and it’s going to be huge. With so much happening during this major sporting event, it can be difficult to keep tabs on all there is to enjoy. Here's a handy guide on everything you need to know about SailGP.
What is SailGP?
SailGP is the world’s most exciting racing on water. The global championship features national teams battling in short, intense races at iconic stadium-style venues across the globe. The high-tech, high-speed action features sailing’s best athletes racing in identical hydrofoiling F50 catamarans, flying at speeds approaching 100 km/h.
How does it work?
The SailGP Championship is made up of a packed calendar of events taking place at iconic venues around the world. Thirteen rival national teams go head-to-head for Championship glory, competing at fast and furious events across multiple continents.
Events are made up of multiple races and take place across two days, with 6 races in total scheduled for each Sail Grand Prix. The first day includes three fleet races, while the remaining two fleet races take place on the second day before the event winner is crowned in the final race on Sunday. These fleet races are intense and adrenaline-fueled lasting approximately 15 minutes each.
Canada Sail Grand Prix will be the 7th stop on Season 6’s 11-event calendar, which means teams will be putting it all on the line to move up the season leaderboard in the run up to Geneva’s Grand Final.
Each event has 5 fleet races (3 on Saturday, 2 on Sunday) and one final race (on Sunday).
When and where is SailGP happening?
SailGP race days are happening on Saturday, June 20 and Sunday, June 21, 2026. The heart-pumping action takes place right in the center of the Halifax Harbour, between Georges Island and the Macdonald Bridge. The races will be visible from both the Halifax waterfront and Dartmouth waterfront, with plenty of space to catch all the action. This is the second ever SailGP event to take place in Canadian waters, and fans will be able to take in the race and festivities at multiple venues across the city.
The address for entrance to the Race Stadium is 1521 Lower Water Street, Halifax, NS, B3J 1R9.
What times will the races happen?
Race Day 1 | Saturday, June 20
SailGP Race Stadium | 3:00pm-6:30pm ADT
Race Times | 4:00pm-5:30pm ADT
Race Day 2 | Sunday, June 21
SailGP Race Stadium | 3:00pm-6:30pm ADT
Race Times | 4:00pm-5:30pm ADT
Will I need tickets to see the races?
While having a ticket will give you the best experience for viewing, there will be viewing opportunities along the Halifax and Dartmouth waterfronts. Both waterfronts are lined with patios – consider reserving a table at one to catch a great view of the action. Stay tuned for more details to come.
What should I wear to the races?
There is no official dress code for SailGP events, but since this is an outdoor event, it’s recommended you prepare for the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Bring a hat, high SPF sunscreen, and drink plenty of water if sunny weather is in the forecast. Halifax can be known to have unpredictable weather in June, with temperatures ranging anywhere from 10°C to 25°C. Be sure to pack a raincoat and warmer layers if rain is looking more likely.
NOTE: large umbrellas are not permitted, as this will disrupt the view for other fans.
What else can I experience during SailGP?
Aside from the races, there are plenty of ways to enjoy all that SailGP has to offer. Enjoy live entertainment on the waterfront, a SailGP Fan Shop, and other fun activities along the Halifax waterfront. The famed Bluenose II schooner and HMCS Oriole will be resting in port at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and will be open for deck tours.
Argyle Street
Stay tuned for live music and entertainment announcements for Argyle Street.
Foil4All
Foil4All returns to the Halifax waterfront, June 13–19, bringing a dynamic week of on-water experiences, community engagement, and high-performance foiling to the heart of the city.
Since its inception, Foil4All has grown into a collaborative, community-driven platform, expanding its reach and impact each year through strong partnerships and shared vision. Organized by weCANfoil and hosted by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic Boat School, the program is built on meaningful collaboration with local organizations, sailing programs, and community groups across Nova Scotia.
With a focus on youth, women, and underrepresented communities, Foil4All creates real access to the water while supporting the next generation through high-performance foiling pathways. By connecting grassroots participation with elite sport, the event not only inspires new sailors but also strengthens and showcases the local organizations working year-round to grow the sport.
Team NorthStar Opti Races
Visit the waterfront on Wednesday, June 17 from 4:00–5:30 pm to watch young sailors (U-14) compete in a fun Optimist dinghy race. After racing, meet the NorthStar SailGP team at the Acadia dock alongside Bluenose II for posters, mascot fun, and sailor autographs.
How should I get there?
Getting there and Parking
It is anticipated that there may be heavier than usual traffic in downtown Halifax and Dartmouth. Plan your route and parking in advance of the race schedule.
Parking Maps
Halifax — Parking | Downtown Halifax Business Commission
Dartmouth – Parking | Downtown Dartmouth
Taking Transit
Bus routes are anticipated to run on schedule with ferry services suspended for the race periods. The ferry will be suspended from 2:00-6:30pm on Friday, May 31, Saturday, June 1 and Sunday, June 2 for this event. Metro Transit will also be providing additional express shuttles for ferry riders during the race periods to ensure people make their connections at Alderney and/or Woodside terminals.
Express shuttles will run in rotation with pick up points at the Water St., Alderney Landing and Woodside terminals. Any amendments or schedule revisions will be updated on the Metro Transit website @ Halifax Transit | Bus | Schedules | Routes | Ferries | Halifax – as well as on X — @HFXtransit on X (twitter.com)
