Sailing, as a sport, has long been a testament to human ingenuity, endurance, and the drive to conquer the seas. Over the years, sailors have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible, setting remarkable records that showcase both skill and resilience. Here are some of the most iconic records in the world of sailing:
1. Fastest Solo Circumnavigation
One of the most coveted achievements in sailing is the solo, non-stop circumnavigation of the globe. The current record is held by François Gabart, who completed the journey in just 42 days, 16 hours, 40 minutes, and 35 seconds in 2017, aboard his trimaran MACIF. This extraordinary feat demonstrates not just advanced sailing technology, but also the incredible endurance required by a solo sailor.
2. Fastest Crew-Circumnavigation
When it comes to a crewed effort, the record for the fastest circumnavigation is held by Jules Verne Trophy winner Spindrift 2. In 2012, skipper Loïck Peyron and his team sailed around the globe in 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds aboard their maxi-trimaran, Banque Populaire V. This crewed mission broke prior records and set new standards in sailing speed.
3. Youngest Person to Sail Solo Around the World
In 2010, Jessica Watson of Australia made headlines as the youngest person to sail solo, unassisted, and non-stop around the world at the age of 16. Jessica took 210 days to complete the journey aboard her yacht Ella’s Pink Lady, becoming an inspiration to aspiring sailors around the world.
4. The Vendée Globe
The Vendée Globe is known as the “Everest of the Seas,” an ultimate test of human endurance and seamanship. It is a non-stop, solo round-the-world yacht race, and the record for the fastest completion is held by Armel Le Cléac’h, who won in 74 days, 3 hours, 35 minutes, and 46 seconds during the 2016-2017 edition.
5. Oldest Person to Sail Solo Non-Stop Around the World
At 77 years old, Jeanne Socrates became the oldest person to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around the globe in 2019. She completed her incredible voyage after 340 days at sea aboard her yacht Nereida, showing that age is no barrier to achieving greatness in the world of sailing.
6. Speed Sailing Records
Sailing speed records are a thrilling aspect of the sport. The current record for the fastest sailing vessel is held by the Vestas Sailrocket 2, which reached a speed of 65.45 knots (121.06 km/h or 75.32 mph) in 2012, breaking previous speed records and pushing the limits of what sailing technology can achieve.
7. Longest Distance Covered in 24 Hours
The record for the longest distance sailed in 24 hours is held by Team Banque Populaire V, which covered an incredible 908.2 nautical miles in a single day during its 2012 record-breaking circumnavigation. This feat highlights the immense power and speed of modern multihulls.
These extraordinary records not only celebrate human tenacity and the spirit of adventure, but they also demonstrate the technological advancements that have transformed the sport of sailing over the years. Each record is a milestone in the rich history of sailing, inspiring future generations to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the water.