A visit was taken to Tanger, Morocco, which has submitted a bid for the 2027 Finn World Masters.
Located at the top end of Africa, fronting the Mediterranean with views to the coast of Spain.
This bustling cosmopolitan town enjoys a port, a fabulous modern marina, and a sandy beach stretching around 4km. The old part of the town accommodates a vibrant Souk (market) with many sights to enjoy. Food and alcohol is served at the many restaurants and hotels, and it is priced in comparison to European countries. There are a number of small market shops and several of the popular European outlets, including McDonalds.
Club: Royal Yacht Club of Tanger is located on a large concrete paved pier adjacent to the Marina and beach, with five neighbouring restaurants, together with marine shop facilities and parking below. The town looks over the Marina and pier and is easy-level access to the club. The team from Vilamoura Sailing will be fronting the event providing facilities and support to make this a World Class Championship. In the past the club has hosted regional events, together with the Ilca Youth Worlds in 2023 and is hosting the Optimist worlds in 2026.
Access:
Ferry: from Tarifa (50 Mins) around 350-400 euros return car trailer, 75km away is the port of Tanger Med which has ferries from the Spanish mainland including Algeciras, Barcelona, together with Sete. Algeciras was favoured on pricing at around 180 euros for car and trailer return. For private vehicles and trailers, no Carnet is needed.
Airport: Tanger has an international airport around 20 mins away, (Taxi fare 15 euros)
Casablanca Airport has a high-speed train link to Tanger.
Event: The proposal is to host the 2027 Finn World Masters in early June, together with a warm-up event, probably the African Championship. This would be the first time the Finn Class has held a major Championship in Africa and the authorities are excited to host the many nations we will attract.
Race Area: The bay of Tanger is around 10km and provides shelter from the Strait of Gibraltar. The race area will be in this bay as the conditions in the Straits of Gibraltar can be demanding. The weather in June is as the Mediterranean coast with temperatures expected to be in the mid to high 20s and thermal winds.
Hotels: Are in plenty supply and tastes for all price ranges from 11 Euro upwards. We stayed at the Marina Bay which is directly opposite the club and marina. Our research found a number Air BnBs located along the front and close behind at reasonable prices.
Trailer Storage: The trailers and camper vans will be at a secure tarmac area adjacent the Marina around 200 yards from the club. Please note there is no Motorhome accommodation, only cars, Vans/Camper Vans will be allowed and there is no electric hook up facility. The marina has facilities for toilets and showers, together with the club changing and toilet facilities.
Ladies programme: Tanger is a centre of culture and tourism with much to see and do.
Safety: Tanger is remarkably modern, clean, and very safe. There are a lot of recent waterside developments, with many high standard modern hotels.
NOTES: The currency is Moroccan Dirham. Hotels, restaurants and outlets will take cards and Euros, Taxis want cash. Many currency change outlets are around.
Bicycles would be useful, flat promenade on the seafront and Marina.
There will be no FREE alcohol available at the opening ceremony and prizegiving, in cultural respect.
From The Ilca Class: …only positive things about Tangier…the venue is fantastic, the organisers were really into it and provided an excellent opening ceremony with the parade and also the closing ceremony was amazing. I am sure you will enjoy the venue and their hospitality, and so will the sailors. See photos of that event here: https://ilca.smugmug.com/2023/2023-ILCA-U-21-Worlds-Tangier-MAR
