In its post-event report, World Sailing has highly rated Dun Laoghaire for future sailing events and praised the Dublin Bay town for successfully hosting its 2025 Annual Conference, held from 2–8 November.
The event brought together over 400 delegates from more than 80 countries to the Royal Marine Hotel, with supporting venues at the Royal St. George, Royal Irish, and National Yacht Clubs.
David Graham, World Sailing CEO, said the conference was “the most important week in our calendar,” adding, “We were thrilled to be back in Dún Laoghaire, a town with a rich sailing heritage.”
Key decisions were made across 48 meetings, including the election of two new Vice Presidents. This resulted in a gender-balanced Board for the first time in World Sailing’s history.
Local waterfront sources told Afloat that "the report is a very positive endorsement of Dun Laoghaire from a credible World body".
In a further boost for the town, the economic spend referred to in the report is only the delegate's out-of-pocket expenditure’ and doesn’t include accommodation costs. The direct local spend, including accommodation and out of pocket expenses is estmated at €1m+
A global delegation from over 80 nations attended the 2025 World Sailing Annual Conference in Dún Laoghaire, showcasing the sport’s international reach and diversity Source: World Sailing Report
The week also featured the World Sailing Awards, where Charlie Dalin (FRA) and Justine Mettraux (SUI) were named Rolex World Sailors of the Year. Emirates Team New Zealand won Team of the Year following their America’s Cup win.
The open sessions were live-streamed globally, while delegates enjoyed the town’s coastal charm, local hospitality, and iconic maritime settings.
"Dún Laoghaire was rated highly as a venue for future sailing events"
A post-event survey showed high satisfaction with the location, venue facilities, and event organisation. Dún Laoghaire was rated highly as a venue for future sailing events.
Quanhai Li, President of World Sailing, said: “To have our international community gathered in Dún Laoghaire made the 2025 World Sailing Awards truly special.”
The event was delivered in partnership with Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, Irish Sailing, and Fáilte Ireland.
World Sailing thanked local partners for their role in delivering a memorable and impactful week for the global sailing community.
Download the full report below
