The circumnavigators are back

The Circumnavigators Are Back: The Ocean’s Calling, and They’re Answering

There’s something about circling the globe under sail, isn’t there? It grabs the imagination. It’s a challenge that’s both ancient and utterly modern. And right now, the circumnavigators are back, with a vengeance. From cutting-edge, high-stakes races to events that echo the golden age of seafaring, the oceans are alive with the spirit of adventure. We’ve seen a few major round-the-world sailing events wrap up recently, others are in full swing, and some are just over the horizon. Each one offers a unique flavor of maritime challenge.

The Vendée Globe: Solo Against the Elements

They call the Vendée Globe the “Everest of the Seas,” and honestly? It’s a fitting title. Imagine: one person, one boat, non-stop, unassisted, against the world’s most unforgiving oceans. That’s the Vendée Globe in a nutshell. The latest edition kicked off on November 10, 2024, from Les Sables-d’Olonne, France, with forty skippers setting their sights on conquering the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific. It’s a brutal test of skill, endurance, and sheer grit. You’re out there alone, battling the elements, relying solely on yourself.

This year, Charlie Dalin clinched the top spot, crossing the finish line on January 14, 2025, after an incredible 64 days at sea. That’s a new record, by the way, smashing the previous one set by Armel Le Cléac’h back in 2017. Yoann Richomme and Sébastien Simon followed close behind, grabbing second and third. And a special shoutout to Justine Mettraux, who became the first woman to complete this edition – a truly remarkable achievement.

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Journeys

Now, if the Vendée Globe is all about solo glory, the Clipper Race is its polar opposite. It’s a chance for everyday folks to experience the thrill of circumnavigation. Think about it: people from all walks of life, from all corners of the globe, learning to sail and race across oceans. The 2023-24 race, which started on September 3, 2023, featured eleven yachts crewed by individuals representing over 50 nations. What’s really cool is that the race is broken down into stages, so crew members can hop on for a leg or commit to the whole shebang.

The Clipper 2023-24 Race wrapped up in Portsmouth, UK, on July 27, 2024, with Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam, taking home the overall victory. The final leg, a 40,000-nautical-mile journey, started on July 21, 2024, from Oban, Scotland. The Clipper Race is more than just a race; it’s a life-changing experience. It’s about pushing your limits, forging bonds, and proving that anyone can achieve the extraordinary.

The Ocean Race: Teamwork Triumphs

Then there’s The Ocean Race, formerly known as the Volvo Ocean Race – a classic. This crewed offshore race is a true test of teamwork and strategy. The 2023 edition, the 14th running, kicked off in Alicante, Spain, on January 15, 2023, and finished in Genoa, Italy, on July 1, 2023. This year, they had two classes of boats: IMOCA 60s and Volvo Ocean 65s.

The Ocean Race throws everything at you – challenging conditions, complex navigation, and the constant pressure of competition. The 2022-23 race was particularly exciting because it was the first time they used foiling IMOCA class boats. These things are seriously fast, but they also demand a lot from the sailors and the equipment. 11th Hour Racing Team clinched the win in the Grand Finale in Genova.

Retro Racing: Back to Basics

But it’s not all about high-tech gear and professional crews. There’s a growing movement towards retro-style events that celebrate the spirit of classic sailing. Take the Ocean Globe Race, for example. Held in 2023, it marked the 50th anniversary of the original Whitbread Race. They used similar, more affordable yachts and followed the same route, offering a taste of old-school adventure. Maiden sailed to victory in the McIntyre Ocean Globe Race, securing first place in IRC handicap rankings.

And then you have the Golden Globe Race, which is just plain bonkers (in the best possible way). Sailors circumnavigate solo, non-stop, using only the equipment and techniques available in 1968. Sextants, paper charts, no electronic gizmos – it’s a pure test of seamanship and self-reliance. The next one sets sail on September 6, 2026.

What’s Next? The Adventure Continues

The world of circumnavigation never stands still. There are always new races and challenges popping up. The Mini Globe Race, coming in 2025, will see sailors tackling the oceans in tiny 5.80-meter boats, cleverly avoiding the roughest parts of the Southern Ocean. And the Oyster World Rally offers a supported circumnavigation for those who want adventure with a safety net.

Whether it’s the Vendée Globe’s solo intensity, the Clipper Race’s everyman appeal, or the Golden Globe Race’s retro charm, the lure of sailing around the world endures. These events are a testament to the human spirit, our thirst for exploration, and the timeless magic of the open ocean.