what type of sailboat to sail around the world

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Sail Around the World Route – Best Options Explained

Before you ponder your route to sail around the world, think about why you’re even thinking about such an undertaking. 

There are countless sailing routes you can take to circumnavigate the globe, but each one is for a different sort of sailor. The two most common routes are the mid-latitudes “Milk Run” and the high-latitudes journey through the Southern Ocean or Northwest Passage.

Here’s a look at some of these very different trips and the types of sailors and vessels that accomplish each one every year.

Table of Contents

Basic planning factors – winds, currents, and storms, the classic sail around the world route – the milk run, circumnavigating in the southern ocean, an alternate sail around the world route the northwest passage, which sailing routes would you pick for your circumnavigation, sailing routes around the world faqs.

The Basics of Sailing Routes Around the World

First, some lingo. Sailors refer to a sail around the world route as a “circumnavigation.”

Taking a boat around the world requires some gumption. So why do it at all? For some, it is the goal of having done it. For others, it’s a fun way to combine their passions of sailing and travel. Some folks compete in races to see who can do it fastest. And some folks think it would be a good lark and a neat way to see the world.

Whatever reason draws you to the idea of completing a circumnavigation, you aren’t alone. Every year there are rallies or races that you can join to meet up with like-minded people. And for as many people who compete in rallies, there are likely an equal number of people doing it on their own. 

No matter how you cut it, a circumnavigation is made up of numerous legs. So if traveling and seeing the sights is your goal, then it only makes sense to take your time and visit as many places as you can along the way. 

Folks with a limited time frame will inevitably miss something or rush through someplace they want to see. 

For sightseers, the goal of a circumnavigation might be secondary to seeing the places they want to see. In other words, someone with their heart set on circumnavigating might set a schedule of two years to get it done, while another sailor who wants to complete loops in the Atlantic and Pacific might have a lot more time to visit more countries and ports of call. 

Every sailor and every boat comes into this adventure with different goals. Therefore, it’s important to think about your motivations and the sort of circumnavigation that you’d like to have. What’s the most important part to you, and how much money and time can you dedicate to the endeavor? 

Most pleasure boaters contemplating a circumnavigation are interested in the safest route to sail around the world. Part of the safety and enjoyment of the crew comes from planning the trip to follow the prevailing wind patterns around the globe.

When sitting on land, you might think of the wind as unpredictable and variable depending on the day and weather conditions. And while that is true all over the world, at sea prevailing weather patterns tend to be more steady. 

That means by understanding the causes and patterns in the winds, you can use them to your advantage on a circumnavigation. 

For example, let’s look at the North Atlantic circuit. If a yacht wants to depart Europe for North America, its best bet is to head south first and follow the area between 10 and 30 degrees north latitude westbound. Why? Because this is the area where the winds flow from the east almost constantly. Since ships used these winds to get to the Caribbean in the old days, they are still known as the Trade Winds. 

What if you want to go the other way, back to Europe? In that case, your best bet is to head north and make your easterly course between 40 and 60 degrees north latitudes. There, the prevailing winds are westerly and will push you back to Europe. 

While sailboats can sail into the wind, doing so is called “beating” for a reason. It’s rough on the boat and crew; it’s tiring and unpleasant. You’ll have to do it occasionally, but a successful and comfortable passage is usually the result of planning so you don’t have to sail to weather. 

Similarly, you can use the world’s ocean currents to your advantage. If the Gulf Stream can give you a knot or two of an extra push toward Europe, you should take it! It makes a big difference when your normal speed is six knots. Trying to fight against it for any length of time could double your trip planning and make for a very nasty ride.

And then there is the risk of storms at sea. With good trip and weather planning, a boat can circumnavigate without ever experiencing a bad storm at sea.

That requires conservative planning to avoid areas and times of the year when the weather is bad. To do this means you must plan to be in the right places at the right times. Pilot charts are published for every ocean sector on Earth, showing the prevailing winds for any given month and the probability of encountering a severe storm in the area. 

Using pilot charts and the historical prevalence of hurricanes or cyclones, sailors can plan to transit these areas only during quiet times. In other words, no one wants to be in the middle of the North Atlantic during peak hurricane season or during winter gales, but being in the middle of the North Atlantic in May is pretty optimal. 

Likewise, you don’t want to be in the middle of the South Pacific during February when it is peak cyclone season, but June or July is good.

The classic route for circumnavigating is based on the path of least resistance, making it the safest route to sail around the world. These routes utilize the prevailing winds to make as many downwind, fair-weather passages as possible. 

The goal of this route is not speed but comfort and safety. This is the route you take your family on. This is the route that around the world rallies, like the World ARC Rally , use for every trip. 

Starting from the Caribbean, this route travels westbound and keeps close to the equator. Of course, you can start anywhere, but many yachts cross their wakes (begin and end their voyage) somewhere in the Lesser Antilles. 

After crossing the Caribbean Sea, transit is arranged through the Panama Canal. Canal transits are expensive and time-consuming, and they usually involve a broker to arrange all the paperwork and scheduling. 

Before the canal was constructed, the only way to make the journey was to travel south in the Atlantic and pass Cape Horn. There, you can follow Drakes Passage through Argentina’s islands and Patagonia’s wild lands. Many expedition yachts still choose this route to see this remote and beautiful part of the world. 

After the Panama Canal, most yachts take familiar sailing routes across the Pacific . The first stop is the Galapagos Islands. This takes you mostly south along the coast of Central America and across the equator into the Southern Hemisphere.

From the Galapagos, the single longest passage lies ahead–roughly 3,200 nautical miles to the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia. This trip takes most sailboats about 14 days. An alternate route takes you farther south. It doesn’t shorten the trip but allows you to visit Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and Pitcairn Islands.

Once in French Polynesia, you can island hop your way through the South Pacific island nations, but with a weary eye on the weather. The point is to avoid the area during cyclone season, roughly the summer months (December through April or so). 

At this point, many yachts find a hurricane hole where they can relax during storm season. Usually, it is time to haul out and complete some maintenance after so many sea miles. Some make it south and out of the cyclone belt to New Zealand or Australia. Others opt to stay in the islands but find a well-sheltered marina or boatyard where they can haul out.

Once cyclone season is winding down, the next big passage awaits. After passing through the Torres Straits, stops in Northwestern Australia and Indonesia welcome you to the Indian Ocean. There are only a few isolated stops after that. Many yachts make one long passage out of it, although many enjoy a few stops, like Cocos Keeling, Maldives, Diego Garcia, or Seychelles.

This is where the route branches in two directions. Traditionally, boats would transit on a northwest course and into the Gulf of Aden. From there, you follow the Red Sea to the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean Sea. The Mediterranean is, of course, one of the most storied cruising grounds on the planet. You can cruise from Turkey and Greece to Italy, France, and Spain, with countless famous ports of call along the way. 

Unfortunately, the route to get there, through the Gulf of Aden and around the Horn of Africa, is home to bands of pirates who have been known to prey on leisure yachts and commercial vessels alike. For this reason, this route has fallen out of favor in recent years. 

Instead, boats head to South Africa. The country makes a good landfall point from which you can travel home or take land excursions to see the rest of Africa. Popular stops on the way are the islands of Reunion and Mauritius. Some folks also like to visit Madagascar.

After rounding the Cape of Good Hope, yachts are back in the Atlantic and can head northwest toward the Caribbean. You can make a few stops along the way, mostly isolated island nations like St. Helena and Ascension Islands. After that, it’s a straight shot back across the equator and to the Windward Islands of the Caribbean. 

When coming from the Mediterranean, boats heat westbound through the Straights of Gibraltar. The next stop is the Canary Islands. How long does it take to sail across the Atlantic? It’s a roughly 17-day passage downwind to the Windward Islands.

Most people take two full years or longer to complete a circumnavigation as described above, but even that only allows a little time to see the sights. So a more realistic number would be four or five years. 

This route isn’t for those looking to get it done in the shortest amount of time. Instead, the Southern Ocean Route is the favored path for those looking to trade a bit of safety for speed. This route, due to the prevailing winds along the route, is completed from west to east. 

Races like the Clipper Around the World , Vendee Globe , and the Golden Globe Around the World Race use this path. It utilizes the open expanses of the Southern Ocean. Once you get into these high latitudes, there are no real landmasses in your way, and you can steer a course all the way around the world in record time.

Of course, the Southern Ocean is not for the faint of heart. High-latitude sailing involves biting cold weather and dangerous gales. You’ll be rounding Cape Horn through Drakes Passage, one of the dicest stretches of water on the planet. 

It’s a punishing stretch of ocean, and boats are often beaten and bruised. Dismastings and equipment failures are common. In other words, a sailor who chooses this route must be ready for anything, capable of handling whatever the sea throws at them, and sailing an extremely well-founded bluewater vessel.

In recent years it has been in vogue to attempt a transit of the Northwest Passage, thereby making it possible to circumnavigate the high latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. Obviously, this is a summertime endeavor only, and even then, only during years when the ice pack has completely melted. This is happening more and more, so the route is gaining popularity.

The leg that makes this possible starts from the United Kingdom going west across the Atlantic to Greenland through the Labrador Sea. The Northwest Passage itself then bisects Canada’s northern territories. Finally, you end up on the northern coast of Alaska. Then, keeping the mainland of North America to port, you continue south into the Pacific Ocean.

From the Aleutian Islands, the most favorable course is to transit to the west coast of North America. After that, you can make your way south along the famous Inside Passage, a network of fjords in British Columbia that can link you to Puget Sound and the Seattle metro area. 

Once in the US, your next steps are southbound transits to Baja, Mexico, or jumps like sailing to Hawaii from California . You can then join the normal routes across the South Pacific islands to Australia or Southeast Asia.

Both the Southern Ocean and the Northwest Passage routes are high-latitude routes that carry more risk than the Milk Run. High-latitude sailing involves dealing with more frequent severe weather systems, stronger winds, and greater variability in the weather in general. They’re also farther from services and more remote, so self-sufficiency is even more vital. 

While you can do the Milk Run in nearly any of best bluewater cruising sailboats , these high-latitudes routes are more comfortable in a robust expedition-level vessel. These are the perfect places for that aluminum sailboat you’ve been dreaming about.

There is much to learn and think about if you want to circumnavigate. If you’re dreaming of sailing the world, consider starting your research by picking up a book or two written by someone who has done it. Here are three stories of circumnavigations, but there are countless others and blogs galore to be found on the internet. 

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Jimmy Cornell is the master of how to sail around the world. His “World Cruising” series of guides includes everything you’d ever need to know, from weather systems and route planning to legal formalities. This book, 200,000 Miles , combines some of those technicalities with a biographical story of his journey.

Sailing Around the World Alone is Joshua Slocum’s story of his journey. It’s not a modern tale–Slocum set out in the late 1890s from Nova Scotia. But his adventure is the OG tale of sailing around the world and is worth a read. 

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Lin and Larry Pardey circumnavigated several times (both eastbound and westbound), but if you totaled up the miles they sailed, it would be more like seven times. The difference, of course, is enjoying every port and stop along the way.

While they never wrote a book specifically about sailing around the world, their cruising tales live on in the various tales and how-to guides they produced over the years. 

Capable Cruiser discusses techniques that will get you there, interwoven by the Pardey’s inimitable charm and wit. For more travel inspiration, check out their original series of books: Cruising in Seraffyn , Seraffyn’s European Adventure, Seraffyn’s Mediterranean Adventure, and Seraffyn’s Oriental Adventure.

What route do you take to sail around the world?

There are several ways to circumnavigate, but the most common is the “Milk Run.” This route goes from the Caribbean through the Panama Canal. From there, it heads south to the Galapagos Islands and into the South Pacific. After Tahiti, yachts head to Australia, across the Indian Ocean, and through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, leaving the Med, boats cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean to close the circle, or “cross their wake,” as they say.

How long does it take to sail around the world?

The WorldARC around the world sailing rally usually lasts 18 months, but you can do it quicker by selecting fewer stops or taking faster routes. For most sailors, however, the length of the trip around the world really depends on how much they stop along the way and for how long. If the purpose of the trip is to travel and see the world, it makes little sense to rush and do it in the shortest possible time. Many circumnavigations take five or more years. 

How much does it cost per month to sail around the world?

Sailing has been described as the most expensive way to get somewhere for free. The cost to sail around the world is extremely variable–it is impossible to pin down any price. On the one hand, the type of boat makes a difference. The larger the boat, the larger the costs. The lifestyle you choose while sailing matters, too–lavish resort marinas cost more than anchoring away from town. Hiring professionals to do boat maintenance costs more than doing it all yourself. There are ways to do it lavishly and ways to be cheap about it. Comfortable cruising is somewhere in the middle, but where exactly that depends entirely on you. 

How big of a sailboat do you need to sail around the world?

Many solo sailors and couples have circumnavigated in boats less than 30 feet long. Lin and Larry Pardy wrote many novels as they circled the globe on 22-foot-long Seraffyn , a Lyle Hess-designed cutter. The size of the boat has everything to do with your cruising style and budget. So long as the vessel is well-founded and designed to take the rigors of bluewater passages, size matters less than many people think.

Matt has been boating around Florida for over 25 years in everything from small powerboats to large cruising catamarans. He currently lives aboard a 38-foot Cabo Rico sailboat with his wife Lucy and adventure dog Chelsea. Together, they cruise between winters in The Bahamas and summers in the Chesapeake Bay.

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Ultimate Guide: How to Sail Around the World – Expert Tips and Routes

Alex Morgan

Taking up the challenge of sailing around the world is an exhilarating and rewarding endeavor that requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice, embarking on this global adventure requires a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects involved. From gaining sailing experience and choosing the right boat to planning the route and equipping your vessel, each step is crucial for a successful journey. Understanding weather patterns , maintaining health and well-being, and knowing how to handle emergencies at sea are essential skills to possess. Interacting with different cultures along the way also adds a unique dimension to the experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process, providing valuable insights and tips on how to sail around the world.

Key takeaway:

• Taking up the challenge: Sailing around the world requires determination and perseverance, but it can be a life-changing experience.
• Preparing for the journey: Gaining sailing experience, choosing the right boat, and securing necessary documents are crucial steps before setting sail.
• Planning your route: Selecting the best season, considering trade winds and currents, and identifying potential stops and ports are vital for a successful voyage.

Taking Up the Challenge: How to Sail Around the World

To embark on the challenge of sailing around the world , follow these steps:

1. Taking Up the Challenge: Gain sailing experience by learning navigation skills and sailing in various weather conditions.

2. Plan your route: Conduct thorough research on seasons, wind patterns, and potential hazards to chart the safest course.

3. Prepare your boat: Prioritize safety by equipping your boat with necessary safety gear, provisions, and performing regular maintenance checks.

4. Obtain necessary permits and visas: Ensure compliance with country entry requirements by obtaining the required permits and visas.

5. Study weather patterns: Familiarize yourself with meteorology to make informed navigation decisions and ensure a safe journey.

6. Create a watch schedule: Establish a rotation system to have someone always alert and attentive during long passages.

7. Stay connected: Invest in reliable communication devices to maintain communication with the outside world throughout your voyage.

8. Practice self-sufficiency: Acquire essential repair and maintenance skills to address any potential issues that may arise during the journey.

9. Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and have emergency procedures in place to be ready for any unforeseen circumstances.

10. Enjoy the journey: Embrace the breathtaking views and savor the unique experiences encountered along the way.

Fact: Sailing around the world can be a voyage lasting anywhere from 1 to 3 years , depending on factors such as weather conditions, route choices, and boat speed.

Preparing for the Journey

Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? In this section, we’ll dive into the essential steps for preparing your journey as you set sail around the world. Discover the importance of gaining sailing experience , choosing the right boat , and securing the necessary documents . So, grab your compass and get ready to explore the thrilling world of global sailing!

Gaining Sailing Experience

When it comes to gaining sailing experience, there are steps you can take to build your skills and knowledge:

• Take sailing lessons or enroll in a sailing school to learn navigation, boat handling, and safety protocols.
• Join a yacht club or sailing community to connect with experienced sailors who can provide guidance and mentorship.
• Participate in regattas or sailing races to practice skills in competitive environments and learn from more experienced sailors.
• Crew on other people’s boats to gain practical experience and learn different sailing techniques.
• Sail in different conditions , such as different weather conditions and types of waters, to cultivate proficiency in different sailing scenarios.
• Stay up-to-date with sailing publications, books, and online resources to enhance theoretical understanding of sailing techniques, rules, and navigation.
• Consider completing certifications such as the American Sailing Association (ASA) or Royal Yachting Association (RYA) to validate sailing skills.

Fact: Gaining sailing experience is crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing journey around the world.

Choosing the Right Boat

When sailing around the world, picking the right boat is crucial for a successful and safe voyage. Consider these factors when selecting your vessel:

1. Size: Determine the boat’s size based on the number of crew members and trip duration. A larger boat offers more space and stability but may be harder to maneuver.

2. Construction: Look for a boat made of durable materials like fiberglass or aluminum. They resist damage from waves and weather conditions.

3. Design: Consider the boat’s layout, ensuring it has enough storage space, comfortable living quarters, and a functional deck for sailing.

4. Sail Rigging: Choose a boat with a sail rigging system that matches your sailing experience and preferences. Options range from traditional sloop rigs to modern catamarans.

5. Navigation Equipment: Ensure the boat has essential navigation instruments such as a compass, GPS, and radar for safe navigation.

An illustrative story underscores the importance of choosing the right boat. A couple attempted to sail worldwide on a small boat. Despite their experience, the boat lacked stability and safety features for long-distance cruising. They faced multiple challenges, including rough seas and equipment failures. Eventually, they had to abandon their journey and get rescued. This story emphasizes the need for thorough research and selection of a suitable boat for your sailing adventure.

Securing the Necessary Documents

Securing the necessary documents is crucial when preparing to sail around the world. Follow these steps:

1. Research the required documents for each country you plan to visit, including passports, visas, and cruising permits.

2. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date to avoid complications.

3. Check the visa requirements for each country and apply well in advance. Some countries may have specific visa requirements, such as transit visas for shorter stopovers.

4. Obtain the necessary cruising permits or licenses for your vessel, providing proof of ownership and insurance.

5. Make copies of important documents, such as passports, visas, and permits. Keep these copies secure and carry them with you while sailing.

6. Consider getting international health insurance to cover medical emergencies while traveling.

7. Register your trip with your local embassy or consulate to receive assistance in emergencies or evacuations.

8. Stay updated on any changes in entry requirements or travel advisories for the countries you plan to visit.

Securing the necessary documents ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey around the world. It is advisable to start this process well in advance to allow for processing times or unexpected delays.

Planning Your Route

When it comes to sailing around the world, one of the most crucial aspects is planning your route. In this section, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details and explore how to select the best season for your voyage. We’ll also take a look at the importance of considering trade winds and currents in order to navigate efficiently. And of course, we’ll discuss the key factors to keep in mind when identifying potential stops and ports along your epic journey. Get ready to chart your course and make your sailing dreams a reality!

Selecting the Best Season

When planning a sailing journey around the world, selecting the best season is crucial. Consider factors such as weather conditions, navigation difficulties, visibility, chances of storms, and sea currents to help you determine the best season for your journey.

Typically, the summer months offer more stable weather conditions with calmer seas and lesser chances of storms. It is essential to research specific regions’ weather patterns as they can vary. For example, sailing through the Caribbean is best between December and April when the weather is pleasant with lower chances of hurricanes. Meanwhile, sailing across the Pacific may be best during the southern hemisphere’s summer months between November and April to take advantage of favorable winds.

Keep in mind that weather patterns can change, so it’s important to monitor forecasts and consult experienced sailors or local experts for accurate information to make the best decision.

Considering the Trade Winds and Currents

When considering a journey to sail around the world, it is crucial to incorporate the trade winds and currents into your planning. These natural forces can greatly impact the speed and direction of your voyage, making it essential to understand and take advantage of them.

The trade winds act as consistent winds that blow in specific directions in different parts of the world. By utilizing these winds, sailors can maintain a steady and efficient course.

Ocean currents resemble rivers within the ocean, flowing in various directions and speeds. By comprehending these currents, sailors can navigate more efficiently, ultimately saving both time and fuel.

To effectively plan your route, it is recommended to study weather charts, pilot books, and seek guidance from experienced sailors. This will help determine the best course to take full advantage of favorable winds and currents for each leg of your journey.

Remember that the timing of your departure is crucial as certain seasons may offer more favorable winds and currents. It is important to remain flexible and adjust your departure dates for a better sailing experience.

By considering the trade winds and currents , sailors can navigate their way around the world more efficiently, ultimately leading to smoother and faster passages.

Incorporating these factors into your planning is an essential aspect of ensuring a successful and enjoyable circumnavigation.

Identifying Potential Stops and Ports

When planning your journey to sail around the world, it is important to identify potential stops and ports. By doing so, you will have the opportunity to rest, resupply, and explore new destinations along the way. There are several important factors to consider when choosing these stops:

1. Research: It is essential to conduct thorough research in order to identify potential stops and ports that align with your travel goals. This includes taking into account the distance from your current location, the available facilities at each port, and the local attractions that may be of interest to you.

2. Navigation: To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to use nautical charts, guidebooks, and online resources to identify suitable ports. It is important to pay attention to any navigational hazards that may exist and ensure that the ports you choose have adequate mooring facilities available.

3. Infrastructure: Before selecting a port, it is crucial to check if it has the proper facilities to accommodate your vessel. This includes looking for marinas, anchorages, fuel stations, and repair services. By doing so, you can ensure safe docking and maintenance for your vessel.

4. Customs and Immigration: It is important to research the customs and immigration procedures for each potential stop in order to comply with local regulations. This includes planning enough time for clearance procedures and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents ready.

5. Safety and Security: Considering the safety and security of each stop is of utmost importance. It is advisable to look for ports that have a reputation for safety and low crime rates. Consulting experienced sailors or online communities for advice on port safety can provide valuable insights.

6. Local Attractions and Culture: It is important to take into account the attractions and cultural experiences available at each stop. Immersing yourself in different cultures, trying local cuisines, and exploring the beauty of each destination will enhance your journey.

By incorporating these considerations into your planning, you can ensure a more enjoyable and successful journey around the world.

Equipping Your Vessel

Equipping your vessel is crucial when embarking on a journey to sail around the world. In this section, we’ll explore key aspects such as ensuring safety equipment and first aid supplies , stocking up on food and water , and installing navigation and communication systems . Get ready to dive into the practical essentials that will make your sailing adventure safe and smooth, from the necessary gear to the provisions for sustenance and the tools for navigation.

Ensuring Safety Equipment and First Aid Supplies

When getting ready for a sailing adventure, it is essential to ensure the presence of safety equipment and first aid supplies. This will help protect both yourself and your crew. Here is a comprehensive list of the must-have items:

• Life jackets: It is crucial for each person to have a properly fitted life jacket.
• Flares and signaling devices: These items can effectively draw attention and assist rescuers in locating you during emergencies.
• Fire extinguishers: Make sure to have fire extinguishers on board to swiftly extinguish any fires.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, and medications for addressing injuries or illnesses.
• Emergency radio: Use an emergency radio to communicate with the coast guard or other vessels in case of emergencies.
• Navigation tools: Carry a compass, charts, and a GPS system to ensure safe navigation.

By having these safety equipment and first aid supplies, you will have peace of mind and be well-prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your sailing journey.

Fun Fact: The International Safety Management (ISM) Code has provisions in place that require the proper presence of safety equipment and first aid supplies on ships to ensure the safety of both the crew and passengers.

Stocking Up on Food and Water

When embarking on a global sailing expedition, it is vital to stock up on provisions, including an ample supply of food and water, to satisfy the crew’s sustenance and overall well-being.

For sustenance , it is recommended to procure non-perishable food items, such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars. It is essential to take into account any dietary restrictions and crew preferences when selecting these items. The aim should be to have enough food to last the entire journey, while also considering additional supplies for unforeseen emergencies .

To meet hydration needs, it is important to ensure an adequate water supply. This can be achieved by calculating the daily water consumption per person and multiplying it by the duration of the trip. Factors such as climate, physical exertion, and possible delays should be considered in this calculation. It is advisable to invest in water storage containers and filtration systems to ensure safety during the voyage. Carrying extra water capacity is recommended for added security .

It is crucial to create a detailed provisioning plan for each leg of the journey, taking into account potential restocking points along the route. This plan should be adjusted based on the availability of supplies at these points.

To prevent damage or spoilage of provisions during rough seas, it is essential to have adequate storage space. Using lockers and securing items will help safeguard them. For the preservation of perishable items, it is crucial to rotate them regularly to maintain freshness and avoid waste. Prioritizing the consumption of items with shorter expiration dates is advisable. Proper food storage techniques should be followed to prevent contamination .

By adhering to these guidelines and diligently planning food and water supplies, you can ensure proper nourishment and hydration throughout your exciting sailing adventure.

Installing Navigation and Communication Systems

To sail around the world, install navigation and communication systems on your vessel. This ensures safety and effective navigation throughout your journey.

• Choose a reliable GPS: Install a Global Positioning System (GPS) for accurate positioning information to determine your exact location at sea.
• Install a marine VHF radio: A marine VHF radio is crucial for communication with other boats and coastguards. It allows distress calls, weather updates, and communication with nearby vessels.
• Set up an AIS transponder: AIS transponders transmit your vessel’s information, such as position, speed, and course, to other vessels. This prevents collisions and enhances safety.
• Install radar: Radar systems detect objects, land masses, and other vessels using radio waves. It provides valuable information during poor visibility or night navigation.
• Consider satellite communication: Satellite communication systems keep you connected when out of traditional cellular networks. They provide weather updates, emergency services, and communication with loved ones onshore.

Pro-tip: Regularly test and maintain your navigation and communication systems to ensure optimal functionality before embarking on your journey. Familiarize yourself with their operation and keep spare parts or backup systems onboard as a precaution.

Understanding Weather Patterns

Weather patterns play a crucial role when it comes to sailing around the world. In this section, we’ll uncover the secrets to understanding these patterns. From learning how to interpret weather forecasts to navigating around tropical storms and heavy weather, we’ll equip you with the knowledge needed to sail safely. We’ll also explore how to tackle calms and light winds, ensuring you’re prepared for all conditions Mother Nature throws your way. Get ready to set sail with confidence!

Learning to Read Weather Forecasts

Learning to read weather forecasts is crucial for sailors. By understanding weather patterns, sailors can make informed decisions about when to set sail, avoid storms, and navigate through different wind conditions.

To read weather forecasts, sailors should analyze meteorological data such as wind direction , speed , atmospheric pressure , and cloud patterns . This information can be obtained from weather forecasting websites, radio broadcasts, and onboard weather instruments.

By interpreting weather forecasts, sailors can anticipate the behavior of weather systems and plan accordingly. For example, if a forecast predicts strong winds and storms , sailors can delay departure or seek shelter. Conversely, if the forecast indicates favorable conditions, sailors can plan longer passages and optimize their route using wind patterns.

Learning to read weather forecasts requires practice and knowledge of meteorological concepts. Sailors should familiarize themselves with weather symbols, terminology, and the use of weather instruments. It is important to stay updated with the latest forecasts throughout the journey to make necessary adjustments.

In a true story, a sailor named Lisa embarked on a solo circumnavigation. Her ability to interpret weather data and make informed decisions contributed to a safe and successful journey. Lisa learned the importance of constantly monitoring weather updates, trusting her instincts, and seeking advice from experienced sailors. Her newfound knowledge and skills in reading weather forecasts enhanced her confidence as a sailor.

Avoiding Tropical Storms and Heavy Weather

Stay updated on weather patterns and forecasts to anticipate the formation and movement of tropical storms and heavy weather.

Avoid areas prone to tropical storms and heavy weather by planning your route strategically.

Choose a time of the year when the likelihood of tropical storms and heavy weather is minimal in the regions you will be sailing through.

Utilize real-time weather information to avoid potential danger.

Stay in contact with other sailors, local authorities, and rescue services to receive timely warnings and advice regarding tropical storms and heavy weather.

Prepare your boat by securing loose items, reinforcing the rigging, and checking and maintaining essential equipment to withstand strong winds and rough seas.

If you encounter a tropical storm or heavy weather while at sea, find a protected anchorage or marina until the weather improves.

Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and know how to deploy safety equipment and handle emergencies during tropical storms or heavy weather.

Develop a contingency plan for worst-case scenarios, such as losing control of the boat or facing exceptionally severe weather, to ensure the safety of yourself and your crew.

Prioritize safety above all else when deciding whether to continue sailing or seek a safe haven during tropical storms or heavy weather.

Dealing with Calms and Light Winds

Dealing with calms and light winds while sailing can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to navigate through these conditions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Maintain momentum: Maximize your boat’s speed by carefully trimming the sails to capture the available wind. Use any breeze, no matter how light, to keep your boat moving forward.

2. Be patient and persevere: Sailing in calms and light winds requires patience. Stay focused and alert for any subtle changes in wind direction or intensity.

3. Consider alternative propulsion: If there are prolonged calms, use methods like an engine or auxiliary power to maintain progress towards your destination.

4. Conserve resources: During periods of calms and light winds, conserve essential supplies such as food, water, and fuel. Plan accordingly and make sure you have enough to sustain your journey.

5. Stay updated with weather forecasts: Anticipate areas of potential calm or light wind conditions by staying updated with weather forecasts. This will help you plan your route and make necessary adjustments.

6. Utilize current and tidal flows: Take advantage of favorable currents or tidal flows that can provide additional propulsion in the absence of wind.

Remember, dealing with calms and light winds is a normal part of a sailing adventure. By using these strategies and remaining adaptable, you can continue to make progress towards your destination even in challenging conditions.

Maintaining Health and Well-being

When it comes to sailing around the world, maintaining health and well-being is crucial. In this section, we dive into the key aspects that contribute to a successful voyage. From staying physically fit to managing seasickness and maintaining mental resilience, we’ll uncover the essentials for a smooth and enjoyable journey across the vast oceans. So, grab your compass and let’s explore the secrets of maintaining your health while sailing the seven seas!

Staying Physically Fit

Staying physically fit is of utmost importance for sailors embarking on a journey around the world. Sailing necessitates strength, endurance, and agility to effectively navigate the physical trials experienced at sea. It is essential to consider the following key factors in order to maintain fitness:

1. Regular exercise: Engage in cardiovascular activities such as running or swimming to enhance stamina and cardiovascular health. Incorporating strength training exercises , like weightlifting, aids in building muscle strength and endurance.

2. Flexibility and mobility: Integrate stretching exercises like yoga or Pilates into your routine to improve flexibility. This is vital for maneuvering on the boat and reducing the risk of injuries.

3. Healthy diet: Maintain a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients to promote overall health and physical well-being. Ensure your diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide energy and aid in recovery.

4. Hydration: It is crucial to consume an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated. This helps to maintain optimal performance and prevent dehydration.

5. Rest and recovery: Allow your body sufficient time to rest and recuperate. Ensure you get enough sleep and schedule rest days to prevent fatigue and facilitate muscle repair.

By staying fit, you will significantly enhance your sailing experience by improving your well-being and proficiency. Giving priority to physical fitness ensures that you possess the necessary physical capabilities to overcome challenges encountered at sea.

One inspiring account of maintaining physical fitness while circumnavigating the globe through sailing is that of Lisa Blair . In 2017, she accomplished the remarkable feat of becoming the first woman to solo and unassistedly circle Antarctica . Blair exhibited extraordinary fitness and resilience by diligently adhering to a strict regimen of exercise, yoga, and a nutritious diet. Her unwavering dedication enabled her to conquer the physical demands of her journey and achieve this awe-inspiring accomplishment.

Maintaining Mental Resilience

Maintaining mental resilience is crucial when sailing around the world.

It requires staying focused, positive, and adaptable to handle challenges.

1. Build a positive mindset: Cultivate a positive outlook. Embrace the adventure, stay optimistic, and maintain a proactive attitude towards overcoming obstacles.

2. Develop coping strategies: Find healthy ways to cope with stress and difficult situations. Engage in activities like meditation or journaling. Take breaks and seek support from fellow sailors or loved ones.

3. Enhance problem-solving skills: Think critically and adapt to changing circumstances. Practice problem-solving techniques and develop a flexible mindset to navigate unexpected situations.

4. Prioritize self-care: Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Get rest, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly to keep both body and mind strong.

5. Manage emotions: Recognize and manage emotions that arise during the journey. Embrace the highs and navigate the lows. Develop emotional intelligence to make better decisions and maintain mental well-being.

Remember, maintaining mental resilience is an ongoing process. By applying these strategies, sailors can better navigate challenges, adapt to the demands of the journey, and enjoy a fulfilling experience sailing around the world.

Managing Seasickness and Motion Sickness

When sailing, managing seasickness and motion sickness is crucial. Here are some strategies to naturally alleviate discomfort:

– Stay hydrated: It is important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, as it can worsen seasickness.

– Eat light meals: To avoid nausea, it is best to steer clear of heavy or greasy foods. Instead, opt for small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.

– Focus on the horizon: To reduce the feeling of motion and alleviate seasickness, fixate on a stable, distant point.

– Take breaks: If you start feeling queasy, find a calm and well-ventilated area to relax.

– Use medication: Consulting a healthcare professional for options such as antihistamines or ginger-based products can help alleviate symptoms.

– Avoid strong smells: It is advisable to stay in well-ventilated areas to prevent worsening nausea caused by certain smells.

– Stay above deck: Spending time in the open air and feeling the breeze can help reduce motion sickness. Try to avoid staying below deck for extended periods.

– Practice relaxation techniques: Engaging in deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music can distract from nausea and promote relaxation.

By incorporating these strategies, you can effectively manage seasickness and motion sickness while enjoying your sailing journey.

Handling Emergencies at Sea

Emergencies can strike anytime, anywhere, and even when sailing around the world, you need to be prepared. In this section, we will explore how to handle emergencies at sea. From dealing with equipment failures to managing medical emergencies, and developing a plan for man overboard situations, we will equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate through unforeseen challenges. So, tighten your lifejacket and let’s dive into the essential tips for handling emergencies on your sailing journey.

Dealing with Equipment Failures

Dealing with equipment failures is essential when sailing around the world. It is crucial to properly maintain and prepare your vessel to minimize the impact of these failures. Consider the following key points:

– Regular inspection: It is important to inspect your boat frequently, including the engine, rigging, sails, and navigation systems. The goal is to identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

– Emergency repairs: Make sure to equip your boat with a comprehensive toolkit that includes spare parts, tools, and materials for onboard repairs. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating.

– Training: Take the time to familiarize yourself with basic repair techniques and procedures. Knowing how to fix common equipment failures can be incredibly valuable in emergency situations.

– Backup systems: Install backup systems for critical equipment, such as an auxiliary engine or redundant navigation instruments. Having this redundancy in place can help mitigate the impact of failures during your journey.

– Communication: Always carry a reliable means of communication onboard, such as a satellite phone or radio. This way, you can seek assistance in the event of major equipment failures or emergencies.

– Insurance: It is crucial to ensure that your boat is adequately insured to cover equipment failures or damages. Review the policy’s terms and conditions to fully understand the coverage it provides.

By following these steps, you can enhance safety and confidence while sailing around the world.

Managing Medical Emergencies

Managing medical emergencies is of utmost importance when sailing. It is crucial to be prepared for potential crises in order to save lives and guarantee a safe journey. Here are some important steps to follow in order to effectively manage medical emergencies:

1. It is vital to stock a comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic solutions, and medications for common ailments.

2. Develop a clear communication plan to easily contact emergency medical services. It is essential to have a working satellite phone or radio onboard.

3. Ensure that the crew is trained in basic first aid and CPR. It is important that everyone knows how to respond to emergencies and provide immediate assistance.

4. Create a medical emergency response plan that outlines the necessary steps to take in case of injuries, illnesses, or accidents.

5. It is essential to regularly check and maintain all medical equipment and supplies to ensure that they are in proper working condition.

6. Keep detailed records of the crew members’ medical conditions, allergies, and medications. This information will be helpful to inform medical professionals if the need arises.

7. Stay well-informed and consider enrolling in medical training courses such as wilderness first aid or advanced marine medical training.

8. Consider subscribing to a telemedical service that can provide real-time medical advice while at sea.

Remember, prevention is key. Encourage good hygiene practices and ensure that the crew is aware of potential health risks associated with sailing. Being well-prepared for medical emergencies is essential to ensure a safe and successful journey.

Developing a Plan for Man Overboard Situations

Developing a plan for man overboard situations is crucial for safety. It is essential to follow these steps in such emergencies:

• Immediately shout “ Man overboard! ” to alert the crew and ensure they start monitoring the person in the water.
• Throw a buoyant object, like a life ring or flotation device, towards the person to provide something to hold onto.
• Activate the man overboard alarm system, if available, to notify nearby vessels or authorities.
• Designate a crew member to visually monitor the person in the water and continuously point towards their location.
• Initiate a quick and efficient recovery procedure, such as turning the boat around or using a rescue sling or ladder.
• Retrieve the person from the water using the established recovery procedure, ensuring the safety of the rescuer.
• Provide immediate medical attention if required and monitor the person’s condition until professional help can be reached.
• Conduct a debriefing with the crew to assess the situation and identify any lessons learned.

A true story highlighting the importance of a plan for man overboard situations involves a sailing team in a race. During a storm, a crew member fell overboard. Thanks to their quick response and well-rehearsed plan, they safely retrieved the crew member and provided necessary medical assistance. Their efficient handling of the situation highlighted the importance of developing a plan for man overboard situations and the significance of preparation and training for everyone’s safety on board.

Interacting with Different Cultures

Stepping into new cultures while sailing around the world offers a beautiful tapestry of experiences. In this section, we’ll dive into the joys of interacting with different cultures, exploring topics like respecting local customs and traditions , learning basic language skills, and establishing positive interactions with locals. So, get ready to expand your horizons and embrace the richness of diverse societies as you embark on your global sailing adventure.

Respecting Local Customs and Traditions

Respecting local customs and traditions is essential when sailing around the world to establish positive interactions with locals and ensure a harmonious experience.

Before visiting a new destination, it is crucial to research and understand the local customs and traditions to avoid offending or disrespecting the locals.

Following the appropriate dress code for each destination, taking into consideration religious or cultural requirements, is important.

Modest clothing is often expected in conservative countries or when visiting religious sites.

Learning the proper way to greet locals in each country is also vital as handshakes, bows , or other forms of greetings may vary based on cultural norms.

Being aware of social etiquette, such as dining customs, gestures, and table manners, is equally important.

Even if it differs from your own cultural practices, it is crucial to respect the local way of doing things.

Familiarizing yourself with local customs, such as gift-giving, ceremonies, or festivals, can greatly enhance your cultural experience and show appreciation for the local traditions.

An important pro-tip is to observe and follow the lead of locals in their own country.

By showing respect and embracing local customs and traditions, you can foster meaningful connections and create lasting memories during your sailing journey.

Learning Basic Language Skills

Learning basic language skills is essential when you are sailing around the world. It is necessary for effective communication and meaningful interactions with the locals. If you want to improve your language skills, here are some tips that can help you:

1. Begin by learning common phrases: It is important to learn simple greetings, directions, and essential words for daily interactions. This will enable you to navigate different countries and effectively communicate your basic needs.

2. Pay attention to maritime terms: Make sure to familiarize yourself with nautical vocabulary that is specific to sailing. Understanding these terms will allow for clear and effective communication with fellow sailors and port authorities.

3. Make use of language learning apps: Take advantage of language learning apps and online resources to practice and improve your language skills. These tools offer interactive lessons, pronunciation guides, and vocabulary exercises.

4. Consider attending local language classes: During your travels, you may want to consider enrolling in language classes conducted by native speakers. Learning from them will enhance your language proficiency and deepen your cultural understanding.

5. Immerse yourself in the local culture: Engage in local customs and traditions to enrich your language learning experience. By participating in cultural activities, you will have the opportunity for real-life conversations and gain a deeper understanding of the language.

Pro-tip: Try to speak with locals as much as possible, even if you make mistakes. Most people appreciate the effort and are willing to help you improve your language skills. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the multicultural experience!

Establishing Positive Interactions with Locals

Establish positive interactions with locals by respecting local customs and traditions. Take the time to learn about the culture and customs of the places you visit, showing that you have a genuine interest in learning and that you respect the locals.

To establish positive interactions with locals, it is helpful to learn basic language skills. While you may not become fluent in every language you come across, learning a few key phrases such as simple greetings, thank you, and please , can show that you are making an effort to communicate.

Being polite and friendly is essential in establishing positive interactions with locals. A smile and friendly attitude can go a long way. Treat everyone with respect and kindness.

Show an interest in the culture of the locals to establish positive interactions. Ask questions and demonstrate genuine curiosity about their local culture, traditions, and history . This will not only help you learn more but also show the locals that you value and appreciate their heritage.

In order to establish positive interactions with locals, it is recommended to support local businesses and artisans . Instead of patronizing big chain stores and restaurants, seek out local businesses and artisans. This not only supports the local economy but also provides opportunities for meaningful interactions with locals.

Being mindful of your actions is important to establish positive interactions with locals. Show respect for the local environment and be conscious of your impact on the community. Avoid littering, follow local rules and regulations, and be aware of cultural sensitivities .

Being open-minded and flexible is crucial when trying to establish positive interactions with locals. Embrace new experiences and be willing to adapt to different ways of doing things. Remember that you are a guest, and there is much to learn from the locals.

Some Facts About How To Sail Around The World:

• ✅ Living aboard a sailboat and sailing around the world is becoming increasingly popular.
• ✅ The duration of a trip around the world depends on factors like exploration, weather, and direction.
• ✅ Legal documentation and the appropriate type of boat are required to sail around the world.
• ✅ The recommended sailboat size is between 35 and 45 feet, considering factors like the route, number of people, and supplies.
• ✅ Safety in sailing around the world depends on navigation skills, the right boat, and avoiding certain areas prone to extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the key factors to consider when planning to sail around the world.

When planning to sail around the world, it is important to consider factors such as a well-prepared route, reliable bluewater sailboat, necessary paperwork, safety training, mental and physical preparation, and research. These elements will ensure a smooth and pleasant voyage, allowing you to make the most of your grand adventure.

2. Can I sail around the world with a rented sailboat?

While it is technically possible to sail around the world with a rented sailboat, it may come with restrictions and limitations. Renting a sailboat is typically more suitable for shorter trips or coastal cruising. For a circumnavigation of the globe, it is recommended to have your own reliable bluewater sailboat, which is better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of long-distance voyages.

3. How much does it cost to sail around the world?

The cost of sailing around the world can vary depending on factors such as the type of boat, family size, route, and lifestyle choices. On average, the cost can range from $500 to $1,000 per person per month. This includes expenses such as food, maintenance, insurance, cruising and mooring fees, satellite phone, fuel, and other miscellaneous costs. It’s important to budget accordingly and plan for unexpected expenses.

4. What safety training is necessary for sailing around the world?

Proper safety training is crucial when embarking on a sailing trip around the world. It is recommended to undergo appropriate safety training courses, both online and practical, to learn navigation skills, emergency procedures, and essential safety protocols. This preparation will equip you to handle unforeseen situations and ensure the well-being of yourself and your crew.

5. How long does it take to sail around the world?

The duration of a sailing trip around the world can vary depending on factors such as exploration, weather conditions, and direction. While the world record is 40 days, most trips take around 100 days or even 3 to 10 years if you want to make stops along the way to explore different countries and islands. It’s important to plan a flexible and realistic itinerary that matches your desired pace of travel.

6. Can I sail around the world without any sailing experience?

Sailing around the world without any sailing experience is not recommended. Operating a sailboat and having basic sailing knowledge is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. It is advisable to gain experience by crewing on other sailboats, taking shorter voyages to refine your skills, and possibly obtaining an internationally recognized sailing license. Learning from experienced sailors and continuously improving your sailing abilities will greatly contribute to the success of your circumnavigation.

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Ten years after his first cruising circumnavigation, Dan Bower is going again. He shares advice on essential preparation to sail around the world.

Personal preparations and sailing skills are still the biggest part of planning to sail around the world.  Knowledge and competence takes the stress out of situations, which is more fun for you and the crew.

That doesn’t mean you need to be a seasoned old salt, but you do need to invest time gaining some sea miles and learning about maintenance and systems (or take on some professional crew).

On 1 February 2024, Skyelark II nosed her bow through the Panama Canal ’s final Miraflores Lock, and became the first yacht of this year’s World ARC fleet to enter the Pacific Ocean.

It’s now an entire decade since we first set off westward from the Caribbean to sail around the world. For myself and my wife, Em, the World ARC in 2014 was the culmination of six years of preparation and planning, working towards that dream – and the honeymoon we had promised ourselves.

Admittedly, our main hurdles were mainly financial—in our 20s, there was first the challenge of buying and equipping a cruising boat, then getting funding to how to sail around the world.

Our solution was to take paying guests, and as charter skippers (check out adventuresailing.com ) we were not typical of the owners on such a rally.

Photo: Edward Penagos/WCC

Back in 2014 we also wrote a series of articles and created accompanying videos ( Bluewater Sailing Techniques ) with Yachting World.

The series of instructional features and accompanying short videos on bluewater cruising focused on skippering skills and preparations.

They covered both the human elements on how to keep a happy ship, such as watchkeeping and provisioning, to the practical skills needed to keep both boat and crew safe, such as dealing with squalls, navigating tricky coral passes, and recovering a man overboard.

Before we headed back into the Pacific again, this time departing with the World ARC 2024, for both nostalgia and research purposes I revisited the Bluewater Techniques series to see how it holds up and whether it’s still relevant.

With the benefit of hindsight (Em and I now have 100,000 more miles under the keel and two more Pacific crossings), I wanted to see how much had changed and whether the challenges of sailing around the world were still the same.

On re-reading I’m pleased to see that the techniques we suggested then are still valid, and the articles are certainly worth looking at whether you are dreaming of – or indeed actually going – to sail around the world.

The videos perhaps aren’t as slick as the current proliferation of sailing YouTube channels, but they get the message across – and I am pleased to say my fish filleting skills have since improved!

Dan and Em Bower are sailing in the World ARC aboard their 62ft Oyster Skyelark II. Photo: James Mitchell/WCC

But, financial considerations aside, how much preparation is needed to sail around the world?

What are the obstacles to heading off around the world safely and enjoyably? And how can you plan to overcome them in 2024?

The following are my top considerations…

Human elements

Cruising is booming and the community reflects this influx of newcomers – it was great to see how many owners of boats that crossed the Atlantic in the most recent ARC were just a few years into sailing.

They went out, bought a boat, and they made it. The pandemic seems to have spurred people on to make the dream come true, blow the kids’ inheritance and get out and do it right now.

Main: be sure you’re confident in your knowledge and competence, particularly in maintenance and systems. This is the start of the 2024/25 Oyster World Rally in Antigua. Photo: James Mitchell/WCC

Sailing the Pacific – and beyond – is more challenging, not so much the sailing itself but the lack of access to services, parts and help. You need to be self reliant and with today’s complex boats there are a lot of systems to learn.

This takes us on to communication – particularly Starlink, which has made cruising so much less remote.

Now you can get access to information to help solve problems as they occur: perhaps learning how to diagnose a problem with an electrical circuit on YouTube, making WhatsApp video calls with a supplier’s technical support department, or being able to have real time access to telemedicine in an emergency.

This is the first year Starlink has become truly widespread: almost all of the cruising boats I meet now have Starlink installed.

While it’s not a substitute for seamanship and knowing your boat, the ability to research problems or call for assistance does flatten the learning curve for the more technically shy.

Advice from cruising communities might be a more reliable indication of safe anchorages than navigation software in poorly charted areas. Photo: Dan Bower

What Starlink has proven excellent for is sharing knowledge and managing difficulties at sea, and as a mass communication tool it’s made SSB obsolete.

Several ocean ‘incidents’ have been quickly coordinated by always-on-satellite systems that allow messenger apps to work all the time.

We all get out of our comfort zone sometimes, and I’m not condoning complacency, but when going offshore having access to information can matter.

For things like telemedicine I’d argue it’s almost negligent not to have quick, reliable internet connection available.

That said, like any emergency system you don’t have to use it and for us, and many other sailors, the joy of being offshore is the ability to disconnect from news and land life.

Gearing up to sail around the world

It feels like there are more newer boats, and bigger yachts plying the world’s oceans.

An explosion of performance catamarans, aluminium expedition yachts and luxury monohulls now swell the fleets of the sailing rallies.

Many of those new yachts have been specified for ocean sailing since they were built, and come fitted with essentials that 10 years ago were still ‘luxury’ items.

Watermakers, solar panels, hydro generators and lithium batteries that can run air conditioning units – life at sea is becoming a little closer to life at home.

When we changed from our classic 1982-built Skye 51 to a modern Oyster 62, Skyelark II, there were a lot of new systems to understand, particularly given the complexity of hydraulic sail handling and the size of the electrical systems required to cope with all of the loads.

In preparation to sail around the world we went through the recommended 10-year maintenance checks from Oyster which involve major overhauls of all systems.

This is quite straightforward as it’s well documented, and it’s a great time to get to know the boat and understand what you can do yourself or what needs specialist skills.

Round the world cruising places a lot of strain on a boat – exhaustive maintenance checks will mitigate against failures. Photo: Ugo Fonolla/Oyster

These are exhaustive projects which need to be budgeted for, but we see pre-emptive maintenance as an investment.

Regardless of whether you bought new, or refitted an older yacht, you still need to invest time and effort into understanding the systems you have on board.

You need to ensure you have the spares and tools to fix things, or the ability and willingness to live without them, if and when things go wrong, rather than spend cruising time waiting for non-essentials to be repaired in remote places.

The rise in renewable energy sources, increased efficiencies, and the bigger areas available on larger yachts on which to put solar arrays, has made cruising without a genset more realistic.

Since smaller generators often produce the biggest headaches while cruising, reducing dependency on them does seem to be the way to go.

This has been coupled with a rise in gas-less galleys, of which I am a big fan, both for safety and reducing the hassle of sourcing LPG in different countries.

With all these systems you have to consider spare parts and, for the unfixable problems, redundancy – whether that’s having a second source of power, emergency food that can be ready without cooking, figuring out how to raise the anchor without the windlass, or towing the yacht into port with a tender.

All are likely scenarios that need thinking through in advance to sail around the world.

For example, our solution for losing the windlass is two chain hooks which can be attached to long lines and led to the primary winches.

Then it’s a game of leapfrog: one line is being pulled while the other one is being re-led forward ready to take over.

For the galley we carry a gas bottle and a barbecue, but also have an emergency two-burner hob, and we always keep a good supply of dinghy fuel in case of a main engine issue.

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Choosing the right sails

At the end of the a relatively benign ARC 2023, I called into the St Lucia sail loft and our old friend Kenny was as busy as ever – every inch of loft was covered in piles of downwind sails, while the lawn outside saw a procession of crews reloading socks and chutes.

This is all fairly standard with ocean sailing, but what was a surprise was the amount of damaged ‘white’ sails – mostly technical laminates.

These fabrics don’t do well in the trades, a combination of UV and the rigours of an ocean passage mean that there is every chance a new set won’t get you round the world or even halfway.

St Lucia sail loft is invariably kept busy. Photo: Elaine Bunting

If the boat comes with some nice sporty sails, keep them at home and they will be perfect when you get back ready to last you for years of local cruising or racing.

But for ocean sailing I would pop on a set of Dacrons: bullet proof and easier to fix on the way, and a lot cheaper than buying yourself the new laminates you will want when you get home.

Downwind sails are having a revolution. Bigger boats with smaller crews are not well suited to traditional symmetrical spinnakers and now there is a huge variety of downwind sail options on the market.

Asymmetric sails mainly use high torsion luffs and continuous line furlers which makes handling them much more straightforward.

These aren’t great for dead downwind sailing and to get the most out of them, you need to sail the angles. That means more miles, but hopefully worth it for the increased boat speed and less rolling motion.

For the more direct route the symmetric kite still wins, but as a compromise there has also been a proliferation of light weight twin headsails like Elvstrom’s Bluewater Runner or North’s TradeWind sail which allow for direct downwind sailing in lighter wind speeds than the traditional white sail route.

However, all of them come at a significant cost which may well be a factor in what you ultimately choose.

Photo: Yachting World

For me, it’s more a space consideration versus how often I really need light wind sails. With our masthead rig we can comfortably sail in 10 knots true so we no longer carry any light wind/coloured sails.

I’m not averse to an extra day at sea, but if the winds are light and I’m in a rush, the diesel will get me through at less pence per mile than a quiver of kites.

It’s worth thinking about what your priorities are.

Some areas of the world are notoriously badly charted and pilot information is woefully out of date. Fiji springs to mind – but it’s one of the most beautiful cruising grounds and well worth the effort to explore.

In 2014 we spent a lot of time using Google Earth images and visual navigation techniques.

We favoured having someone up in the rigging, with the sun at our backs, to con the boat through passages and into anchorages by looking out for coral heads and reefs.

Sending a crewmember aloft was a daily experience.

In many cases our chartplotters would show us as on land, or having sailed across reefs. I still have those GPS tracks and, having just downloaded the most up to date charts for those regions, I can tell you that they are no more accurate today.

Visual navigation is still key, as is real seamanship in only entering poorly charted areas in good light and favourable conditions.

To complement the old skills, there is now so much more cruiser shared knowledge. Navionics and MaxSea TimeZero are our choice of charts and both have user-updated information with anchorage reviews and potential hazards.

Many cruisers also detail their experiences on Facebook groups, and regularly post blogs and vlogs.

Cruising communities share waypoints and tracks that are known to be safe, and recent accounts can fill in the gaps in the out-of-date pilot books.

There are tutorials online on how to download or make your own charts from satellite imagery (see svocelot.com).

Get the research and planning stages out of the way while you’re at home – at the time you’re more likely to be searching for an elusive boat part, or you’ll want to be enjoying being where you are.

Cruising for a cause

It’s easy to get so wrapped up in the boat preparations and updating your skillset that you forget you’re cruising the world to see it, not to just tick it off the list.

Time on passage can be spent planning for the time ashore, learning a bit about the area and considering what kind of things you want to do.

Photo: Tomasz Kunicki

Guidebooks can be useful, but reading other yacht blogs and experiences can really help.

More often, the people you meet when you sail around the world form the best experiences.

So it’s nice to think about what gifts and trading items you can carry on board to build those moments of connection and help the areas you’re visiting.

Alternatively you might consider partnering with one of the charities, such as sailaid.com, to take things that are needed to remote communities.

We find footballs for the kids and reading glasses for adults are in short supply and well received.

On a more global level there are various citizen science projects to get involved with, be it checking for plastics in the sea, taking water samples or even looking at cloud formations.

For many of these projects the field work is the most cost prohibitive aspect, and the results of studies may help protect the very things we are sailing halfway around the world to experience – the wildlife, culture and natural landscape that makes the Pacific so special.

Top upgrades

Ground tackle.

A decent anchor and at least 100m of chain.

Pacific anchorages can be deep and you need to feel you’re anchored securely enough to ride out a blow, and confident enough to leave the boat unattended for adventures ashore.

In addition to a spare anchor, a lightweight kedge is useful as a stern anchor in swelly or crowded anchorages.

Ideally powerful enough to plane in tradewind conditions, strong enough to survive contact with a rocky or reefy shoreline and light enough to pull clear of the surf and tide.

This can be a long way in places like the Las Perlas, or Australia.

I favour 2-stroke outboards for weight and because they can handle a dunking if the beach landing goes wrong.

There’s an immense joy in the simple pleasure of being anchored behind a reef, in a turquoise lagoon with just the sound of the waves and amazing stars for company (and the internet turned off!).

To get out and really enjoy and appreciate those surroundings, if you have the energy and space on board then it’s great to carry a few water toys.

Skyelark’s toy cupboard includes kit for kitesurfing and wing foiling, a Hookah (see below), drone, bikes and paddleboards.

Used for maintenance or to free a fouled prop or stuck anchor. When things happen it’s best to be self sufficient.

We carry full scuba kit in case we have to go deep for a problem anchor (possibly caught on or wrapped around a coral head), but for routine maintenance we use our Hookah (my favourite toy for the Pacific).

This allows two people to dive down to around 10m with the air supplied from a surface compressor. It’s a crossover between diving and snorkelling and is perfect for seeing those sharks in atoll passes.

I like that you’re visible from the surface, and you can also leave a radio at the surface (see photo) in case you get into difficulty.

Low friction loops

Cheap and easy ways to re-lead a line to avoid chafe without the bulk (and expense of) snatch blocks.

Chafe is the enemy (after sand) and some care in keeping the ropes running nicely can make a big difference.

For the Panama Canal putting lines through a low friction loop stops them from jumping out of the fairleads and catching on the guard wires.

We also carry Dyneema chafe protection sleeving that is easily whipped onto a line at the first sign of damage as a sacrificial layer.

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Sailing Around the World: How to Get Started

Sailing around the world is the ultimate adventure, and it starts right here..

Sailing around the world is a dream for many people. For adventurous spirits, it conjures up images of navigating the wide open ocean, visiting far-flung corners of the world and living the simple life guided by Mother Nature. And the good news is that contrary to what many may think, a sailing trip around the world is well within reach of the average person.

You don’t need to be a hardened salty dog to do it. But before you set sail on an amazing adventure around the world, have a look at our guide about sailing around the world to bring you up to speed about what to do and expect, and most of all, how to get started.

How To Sail Around the World

There are many different ways to go about sailing around the world. Each option comes with its unique set of considerations. Opting to sail with your own boat offers unmatched freedom to customise the journey, and select preferred routes. However, this choice demands substantial financial commitment, meticulous vessel preparation, and a significant level of sailing experience.

Joining a round-the-world trip, such as the popular World ARC (World Cruising Club’s Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), has a softer level of entry. The rally offers a structured and supported approach to round-the-world travel, combining the thrill of adventure with professional guidance and a ready-made community of fellow sailors.

You can participate with your own yacht or join the crew of someone else’s. Experienced World ARC sailors like Ian and Fiona love to share their epic adventures with sailors of all levels, making it a great option for those new to sailing, or without any prior sailing experience who want to partake in just one leg of the journey.

The Best Time to Sail Around the World

The best time to sail around the world depends on several factors, including the chosen route, seasonal variations, and the sailor’s preferences regarding weather conditions and cultural encounters. Meticulous planning and continuous monitoring of weather patterns are indispensable for a successful and enjoyable circumnavigation. Careful consideration of the optimal timing to ensure a safe and comfortable journey across diverse climates and ocean conditions.

Many circumnavigators adhere to established trade wind routes, beginning their journey in regions like Europe and crossing the Atlantic Ocean to the Caribbean during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter to benefit from favourable easterly trade winds.

Timing plays a crucial role in avoiding hurricane seasons in the Atlantic from June to November and cyclone seasons in the South Pacific from November to April. For the challenging Southern Ocean, circumnavigators often opt for the Southern Hemisphere’s summer between December and February to minimise exposure to extreme weather conditions.

Navigating the Pacific Ocean involves monitoring El Niño and La Niña events, which can impact weather patterns. The Southern Hemisphere’s winter, between May and August, is generally preferred for sailing across the Pacific and Indian Oceans .

For an Atlantic crossing, particularly from the Caribbean to Europe, sailors wait for favourable weather windows, usually in late spring or early summer, to ensure smoother passages. Timing the journey through the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia requires avoiding the monsoon seasons – the northeast monsoon from November to March and the southwest monsoon from June to September.

Beyond weather considerations, circumnavigators often align their journeys with personal preferences and cultural experiences. Some choose to time their passages to coincide with specific cultural festivals or events in the countries they plan to visit.

Routes to Sail Around the World

There are several established routes to sail around the world. Selecting the most suitable route for a global circumnavigation is an important decision, influenced by factors such as prevailing winds, ocean currents, and seasonal weather patterns.

The Eastward Route

The eastward route involves sailing against the Earth’s rotation, navigating from west to east. This route typically follows the prevailing winds known as the “Roaring Forties” and “Furious Fifties” in the Southern Hemisphere. Sailors often encounter challenging weather conditions, including strong westerly winds and rough seas. Notable eastward routes include passages through the Southern Ocean, around the Cape of Good Hope, and navigating the vast Pacific Ocean.

The Westward Route

Sailing the westward means sailing with the Earth’s rotation, from east to west. This route often follows trade wind routes, such as the North and South Trade Winds in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Westward-bound sailors typically navigate around the Cape of Good Hope, cross the Indian Ocean, and may traverse the Panama Canal.

The Trade Wind Route

Following the trade winds, sailors might depart from Europe and sail southward to cross the Atlantic via the Cape Verde Islands. After crossing the Atlantic, they navigate the Panama Canal and continue across the Pacific, rounding the Cape of Good Hope, and returning to Europe.

The Classic Circumnavigation

The classic route often starts in Europe, crossing the Atlantic to the Caribbean via the Canary Islands. From the Caribbean, sailors traverse the Panama Canal to enter the Pacific Ocean. This route typically involves circumnavigating the globe in an eastward direction.

The Red Sea Route

The Red Sea route serves as a crucial passage for sailors travelling between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. Sailors enter the Red Sea through the Suez Canal, providing a more direct route and bypassing the need to sail around the southern tip of Africa. However, the route has faced security challenges such as piracy and geopolitical tensions in the area.

The Southern Ocean Route

Adventurous sailors often opt for a Southern Ocean route, starting in the Southern Hemisphere and circumnavigating Antarctica. This route passes through challenging latitudes, including the Roaring Forties and Furious Fifties, known for their strong westerly winds.

The Clipper Route

Inspired by the traditional clipper ship routes, this historical route involves sailing from Europe to Australia and the Far East via the Cape of Good Hope. Sailors then cross the Pacific, rounding Cape Horn, and return to Europe via the Atlantic.

The Transpacific Route

Some circumnavigators choose a predominantly Pacific route, sailing from the west coast of the Americas across the Pacific, exploring islands such as Tahiti, Fiji , and Australia, before rounding the Cape of Good Hope or Cape Horn to return home.

The Northern Route

A more unconventional route involves sailing through the Arctic Circle, navigating the Northwest Passage and possibly continuing through the Northeast Passage. This route offers a unique Arctic Ocean exploration experience but requires careful planning due to ice conditions.

The World ARC Rally

The World ARC (World Cruising Club’s Around the World Rally) provides a structured and supported route for circumnavigators. This rally typically starts in the Caribbean, crosses the Panama Canal, explores the South Pacific, and Indian Ocean, and returns via the Atlantic.

Benefits of Joining the World ARC Rally

An existing crew on the World ARC already has an ocean-crossing-ready yacht, so you don’t have to worry about getting one. You also get an immediate sense of community and camaraderie, as you become part of a team sharing the adventure. Sailing with experienced crew members gives you the opportunity to learn and develop your skills, especially if you’re new to sailing or long-distance cruising.

The logistical aspects of the journey, including route planning and safety measures, are often handled by the experienced crew and rally organisers, making the experience smoother and offering a level of security for participants.

One of the best things about joining a crew on the World ARC is that you can join for one leg, many legs, or the entire journey, making it an extremely flexible option if you can’t take a year and a bit off to go sailing around the world.

How Long Does It Take to Sail Around the World?

It usually takes around 100 days to sail around the world non-stop. However, the duration of a global circumnavigation varies widely. Direct eastward or westward routes along the equator cover approximately 15,000 to 25,000 nautical miles, but most circumnavigators opt for longer routes to explore islands and continents, significantly extending the journey.

Sailing yachts typically cover 100 to 150 nautical miles per day, depending on design, size, and wind conditions. Strategies vary, with non-stop circumnavigations taking around 100 days, while cruisers may prefer a leisurely pace over several years, allowing for extended stays in ports and exploration.

Circumnavigators often plan around seasonal weather patterns, resulting in extended stays in specific regions. The time spent in ports, cultural exploration, and participation in events significantly influences the overall duration.

What You Need to Sail Around the World

Besides the usual provisions and safety considerations, things like essential documents, medical necessities, and cultural sensitivity are also important. Ensure that your passport is valid and that you have the required travel visas for the countries you’ll be visiting, make sure you are up to date with relevant vaccinations and that you have a sufficient supply of prescription medications.

On your trip, you will meet different cultures that may be completely different to yours. Research these cultures, including local customs, and language (even if you only know how to say “hello”) and learn how to interact with other cultures with respect. This will make your journey so much more enjoyable and rewarding.

Can Anyone Sail Around the World?

Yes! Really the only prerequisite is a sense of adventure. Sailing around the world doesn’t necessarily require extensive sailing experience if you are joining a crew and not sailing your own yacht. But even still there are various routes and options that cater to varying skill levels. While sailing experience definitely helps, the accessibility of global sailing adventures has expanded, allowing anyone to tick off this massive bucket list adventure.

If you’re not sure whether you’ve got what it takes to sail all the way around the world, you can join someone else’s crew for one or two legs to get a taste of it. There are many options, from joining a laid-back leg or two on the World ARC to jumping into the adrenaline-pumping action of round-the-world racing in the Ocean Race.

Notable People Who Have Sailed Around the World

Embarking on a global circumnavigation is a feat achieved by a diverse array of individuals, each with their unique motivations, challenges, and inspiring stories. Numerous sailors have etched their names in maritime history through remarkable circumnavigation achievements.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston

In 1969, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston became the first person to complete a solo non-stop circumnavigation aboard his yacht, Suhaili, as part of the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race. His journey took approximately 312 days.

Laura Dekker

Laura Dekker, a Dutch sailor, achieved global recognition in 2012 when, at the age of 16, she completed a solo circumnavigation aboard her yacht, Guppy. Her journey spanned over a year, making her the youngest person to sail solo around the world at the time.

Francois Gabart

In 2017 French sailor Francois Gabart broke the record for fastest single-handed circumnavigation, completing the journey in 42 days, 16 hours, 40 minutes, and 35 seconds, beating the previous record by almost a week. Gabart achieved the record for sailing a multihull, the record for monohulls is held by another Frenchman, Armel Le Cléac’h, setting a time of 74 days, 3 hours and 35 minutes.

Joshua Slocum

Joshua Slocum, a Canadian sailor, achieved the first recorded solo circumnavigation between 1895 and 1898 aboard his yacht, Spray. His detailed account of the journey, “Sailing Alone Around the World,” remains a classic in maritime literature.

Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz

Following in Slocum’s footsteps, Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz made history as the first woman to solo circumnavigate the globe. Sailing on the Mazurek from February 28, 1976, to April 21, 1978, she conquered the Southern Ocean, rounded the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Horn, and crossed the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

The Crew of Maiden

The crew of Maiden, led by Tracy Edwards, made waves in 1989 when they became the first all-female team to compete in the Whitbread Round the World Race (now known as The Ocean Race). This feat won Edwards the Yachtsman of the Year Trophy, the first woman to receive this prestigious award.

Jeanne Socrates

In 2019, at the age of 77, Jeanne Socrates became the oldest woman to complete a solo non-stop and unassisted circumnavigation. Her 330 journey aboard the yacht Nereida also broke a world record for the oldest person to sail around the world solo, nonstop and unassisted. In 2020 Socrates lost her record to 81-year-old Bill Hatfield, however, there was some controversy regarding his route, as it didn’t sail around the ‘Five Great Capes’.

Sail Around the World Yacht Races

Participating in a sail-around-the-world yacht race is a thrilling and challenging endeavour that attracts seasoned sailors and adventurous novices alike. These races offer a unique opportunity to test sailing skills, navigate diverse conditions, and experience the camaraderie of a global sailing community.

The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race

The Clipper Race is one of the most renowned yacht races, circumnavigating the globe in a series of challenging legs in specially designed identical yachts. What sets it apart is its inclusivity, allowing individuals with minimal sailing experience to join as “crew” under the guidance of professional skippers. Crew members sign up for one or more legs of the race, covering various global destinations.

Vendée Globe

The Vendée Globe is the world’s only solo, non-stop, and unassisted yacht race that circumnavigates the globe. It is known for its extreme challenges and demands on skippers, testing their endurance and sailing skills to their limits. In 2020, Kraken sponsored close friend Pip Hare’s historic successful completion of this gruelling race.

World ARC (World Cruising Club’s Around the World Rally)

The World ARC is designed as a cruising rally, offering a structured and supported route for circumnavigators. It typically spans 15 to 18 months and covers a diverse range of destinations, allowing participants to explore the world in a well-organised manner.

Golden Globe Race

The Golden Globe Race is a retro race that pays homage to the original Sunday Times Golden Globe Race of 1968. Held every 4 years, participants sail solo, non-stop, using vintage yachts and equipment available during the race’s inception. The race ultimately led to the founding of the Vendée Globe race.

The Ocean Race

Formerly known as the Volvo Ocean Race and the Whitbread Round the World Race, The Ocean Race is a global team event that circumnavigates the world with a series of challenging offshore legs. Professional sailing teams compete in state-of-the-art offshore racing yachts. The race covers some of the world’s most treacherous waters, testing the limits of sailing skill and strategy.

Kraken offers the opportunity to experience what it’s like racing on an Ocean Race yacht, with spots on former Ocean Race competitors, the VO65 Sisi and the VO70 Green Dragon .

Sailing around the world is the ultimate adventure, and whether you’re a seasoned sailor or have never set foot on a sailing yacht before, you can make it a reality. Join a round-the-world sailing trip, charter a yacht, join a racing team or take your own boat, such a big adventure has never been so accessible!

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SAILING AROUND THE WORLD: AN ESSENTIAL GUIDE [PDF]

Sailing around the world is a dream many sailors and cruisers share. It involves getting thousands of nautical miles under your belt, exploring new countries and tasting new cuisines, stargazing in the middle of an ocean, experiencing exotic cultures, making lots of new friends from all over the world, and much more. Imagine the incredible memories you’d make.

It’s an ambitious enterprise, which requires a lot of preparation, training, time, and money. In this guide, we look at what it takes to accomplish a circumnavigation by sailboat and how to pull it off. There’s a lot to say about the topic - books have been written about it - so we cover the crucial information sailors considering sailing around the world typically need at this stage.

If you like, you can download the guide as a PDF document, so you can store it on your tablet, computer, or smartphone and read it offline.

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT CIRCUMNAVIGATING BY SAILBOAT

First, we answer some common questions about sailing around the world, so we can clear some key things up early on. 

How many days does it take to sail around the world?

The world record is 40 days on a racing trimaran. However, this is not the type of circumnavigation many plan to complete. Leisurely sailing around the world normally takes between 3 and 5 years. 

There are three kinds of speeds at which you can circumnavigate:

Non-stop (100-200 days): racing without stopping anywhere 

Express (1-2 years): taking breaks every now and then for short amounts of time

Recreational (3+ years): comfortable sailing, stopping often and for long periods of time.

Non-stop sailing is a big challenge, which requires organising for supply boats to regularly come out and provide you with water, food, and fuel. To achieve such a circumnavigation in under a year, you need a fast boat, which can go at 10-20 knots average speed.

Most people who want to stop and visit some of the countries they come across take around 3 and a half years. While some sailors take over 10 years to complete their circumnavigations because they enjoy travelling at a slower pace and exploring more places.

In order to avoid sailing in hurricane or typhoon season, you will need to leave some countries during certain months of the year. This dictates how long you can spend in each area. For example, to avoid crossing the Atlantic during hurricane season, you need to do the passage anytime between November and April. While the Pacific hurricane season starts from May. This means that you either need to rush to cross the Atlantic and go through the Panama Canal, or you will have to stop somewhere safe, such as the ABCs or Panama, to wait out the hurricane season.

Is sailing around the world expensive?

The short answer is yes; however you can adapt your voyage to your budget. You can save money by doing your own boat work, anchoring out a lot, eating on board most of the time, keeping your equipment simple, and more.

Factor the following costs into your budget:

Buying and refitting a boat

Boat insurance

Health insurance

Home insurance (if applicable)

Boat maintenance, upgrades, and repairs

Fuel (diesel and petrol)

Holding tank pump outs (if applicable)

Marina and mooring ball stays

Boat storage

Grocery shopping

Phone contracts

Music and video streaming services (if applicable)

Any bills to be paid at home

Accountant fees (if applicable)

Visiting attractions

Hiring cars

Trips home.

All of these add to your yearly allowance, so the longer you take, the more expensive the voyage will be. Bear in mind that any costs related to your unique lifestyle (for example, smoking or getting regular haircuts) aren’t included in this list, but you will need to incorporate them into your financial forecast. 

To plan for a circumnavigation, it’s best to come up with a realistic budget, taking into account as many costs as possible, and add a decent contingency (5-20%) to it. There will be unforeseen costs to take care of every now and then, so you can’t rely on a rough estimate. 

If the number looks too big, you can reduce some of the optional costs, such as eating out, but don’t plan to completely change your lifestyle during the circumnavigation. You need to be able to fully enjoy the ride, otherwise you will develop resentment towards your venture or vessel. 

If you’re considering selling your home, weigh the pros and cons carefully. You will need a place to live when the trip is over and your circumstances may change before you can complete it.

If you aren’t confident in your boat maintenance skills, allocate a big portion of your budget to pay for marine professionals. Engines, generators, and outboards should be serviced every 6 months and all the systems, such as electrical and plumbing, require regular attention on a boat. The marine environment is harsh due to salt water and humidity.

How safe is it to sail around the world?

Sailing is a very safe way to explore the world, if you minimise risks. This entails choosing weather windows carefully, avoiding dangerous areas, interacting with everyone politely, and taking precautions against boat burglaries. 

Some areas, such as parts of the Caribbean and Venezuela, regularly see cases of crime and violence against yachties. However, these are very much the exception. Most of the world is safe, especially for boats at anchor. 

How big of a boat do I need to sail around the world?

There are bluewater sailing boats of all sizes - from 22 to 60ft long. So, as long as the boat is bluewater-capable, you can sail around the world on any size of boat. However, as you’ll be living on board for years, you’ll need to choose something that’s comfortable to be on full-time. 

To enter the Atlantic Rally For Cruisers (ARC), which involves sailing from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean every November, you need a boat that’s at least 27ft long. This is still a very small boat for most people. Typically, cruisers settle on yachts that are 40-42ft in length , as these are cheaper to moor while still comfortable to live on. Circumnavigating families opt for boats over 50ft.

Can you sail around the world with no experience?

No. Going offshore with no experience is extremely dangerous. You need to be able to handle a sailboat in various weather conditions in order to stay safe. Moreover, many countries require you to provide proof of sailing qualifications when checking in. Take time to get plenty of nautical miles under your hull before you plan to set off.

How much experience is needed to sail around the world?

Preparation is key when it comes to circumnavigating. There is no required level of sailing experience to embark on such an adventure. However, you will need to have enough skills and knowledge to feel safe and comfortable in the middle of an ocean. The amount of time you need to get to that point depends on how often you can go sailing and how quickly you learn things and develop confidence.

Ideally you will have skippered on a number of offshore passages, sailed solo for a day or more, crewed on an ocean passage, sailed in some bad weather, dealt with broken gear underway, and anchored for the night a number of times. 

No one will stop you from sailing around the world, but do you honestly feel ready? Have you researched the topic in depth? Do you know what to expect? Are you confident handling a storm at sea or in an anchorage? Can you fix your boat alone, without internet connection? These are the questions you should ask yourself before you start planning your voyage.

How difficult is it to sail around the world?

If you take time to develop the right knowledge and skills in advance, leisurely sailing around the world isn’t especially difficult; however, setting off ill-prepared will result in stressful and dangerous situations . 

Circumnavigating entails a lot of multitasking: passage planning, weather routing, boat maintenance, sailing, anchoring, researching country entry requirements, crisis management, and more. The key skill is problem solving, as you will encounter countless issues and you will need to deal with each in a calm way, whenever they happen. If you’re unlucky, you may have to overcome a few emergencies. It’s important you know how to act in all situations.

SAILING QUALIFICATIONS

In order to sail around the world, many countries will require you to provide your sailing qualifications upon entry. Most marinas do, too. So you can’t circumnavigate without obtaining a boat licence, unless you avoid stopping in all the countries that require it. If you’re considering undertaking such an enterprise, gaining a sailing qualification shouldn’t be a concern, though. You will need to be capable of much more than what is required to gain a licence.

To start with, you’ll need to gain your country’s most recognised qualification - for example, the RYA Day Skipper. In some cases, showing this at a port of entry will be enough. 

In other areas though, you may need to show an internationally-recognised qualification. The most accepted one is the International Certificate of Competency (ICC) , whichis recognised by the United Nations and valid throughout much of Europe and the Mediterranean. If you have already taken some certifications, such as the A.S.A. Bareboat Charter certificate, you may be able to skip the classroom training and take the ICC exam directly.

Bear in mind that when you go sailing your plans don’t always work out. You may end up having to stop in countries you hadn’t planned on your route in an emergency, so having the sailing qualifications required in most countries is very important. 

SKILLS NEEDED TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD

In order to sail around the world, it’s important that you can take care of your boat and yourself independently. You may be in the middle of an ocean when a piece of rigging breaks or you break an arm. Take time to learn and develop new skills, so you can get out of sticky situations and emergencies.

Marine weather interpretation

You will need to gain a more in-depth understanding of marine weather forecasts before you set off. A quick check of an app won’t be enough. You’ll need to learn how to read GRIB files and pilot charts, as well as how to use different weather models. Buy a good book on the subject. Understanding how weather systems interact on a bigger scale will give you a key advantage in your planning.

If you’ve been sailing in a specific area for a long time, you will have gotten used to the local marine weather patterns. These change throughout the world, though. So every time you go on a long-ish passage, you will need to read up about the new area you’re entering. 

In the Caribbean, squalls often travel across the Atlantic and reach the Eastern islands. In the Mediterranean, summers typically see long periods of calms, while the other seasons are characterised by frequent changes in wind direction and strength - sometimes even throughout the same day.

Heavy weather sailing

While modern weather forecasting is accurate 70-80% of the time , some phenomena can be unpredictable. Think of hurricanes or typhoons. Moreover, on a circumnavigation you will need to undertake very long passages and in some instances you won’t be able to avoid going through some bad weather.

For these reasons, you should gain confidence in heavy weather sailing. Learn how to handle your specific boat in high winds and a big swell before setting off. Every boat behaves differently - you may need to practise heaving to or running downwind. It’s best to get used to it all when you’re not far from home and can hire a professional skipper to teach you the best techniques.

Getting hurt on a boat isn’t fun, even when you’re at anchor. You may need to get on a dinghy to get to a doctor or wait two weeks before you make landfall. Neither option is great. For this reason, it’s a good idea to go on a first aid course before setting sail. 

Marine diesel engine

Your engine can break at the most inconvenient time. It helps if you can resolve the most common issues, such as oil or fuel injector problems. While anchoring under sail a couple of times may not be a big issue for most sailors, you’ll want to be able to fix the motor when you’re on a long passage. Having an alternative means of propulsion is essential. 

You’ll want a professional rigger to check and update your rigging before a big passage or every few years of sailing. However, rigging wires and buckles can fail underway. In this case, you’ll need to be able to fix them, or you risk being dismasted. Try going up the mast underway at least once - it’s not as easy as it is in a slip.

Sail repairs

Carry a sail repair kit on board and learn how to use it. Sails can rip in gusts or when the boat is over-canvassed. If you don’t repair them, the rip can enlarge more and more until the sail is essentially useless. This skill will also turn out useful when a piece of canvas, such as the bimini, tears and you need a quick fix.

Plumbing problems can be catastrophic in some instances - you may lose all your drinking water during a long ocean passage. So it’s essential that you know roughly where all plumbing is inside the boat and you know how to repair it. Carry some spare tubes on board. It’s always a great idea to bring spare water and a portable watermaker for emergencies. 

Electrical systems

Faulty wires can cause fires on board, which are extremely dangerous. Being able to check that your electric system is in working order is important. However, understanding how electrical connections work is very handy, as the instruments may stop working while you’re out at sea. 

Steering and autopilot repairs

Big waves or an impact with a floating object at speed can break the steering system of a boat. Whether it’s the rudder, the steering cable, or the autopilot which gives up, you’ll need to be able to re–establish steering in order to get back to land. Understanding how these systems work and how to make temporary repairs is essential.

Outboard engine basics

In most cases, losing your outboard engine is no big deal. However, if you’ve gone out to a reef to fish or snorkel on a windy day, you might get into trouble. Understanding outboard basics is a useful skill to develop. You may also be able to help a neighbouring cruiser out and gain a few drinks or a dinner invite.

These aren’t all the skills you’ll need to be able to sail around the world. There are many more that can turn out useful along the way. However, these should keep you safe in most instances.

DOCUMENTS TO CARRY ON YOUR YACHT

While sailing around the world, you will need to carry a number of documents with you, as well as your personal ID and passport.

Boat registration

Keep on board the original boat registration document stating the vessel’s name, engine size, MMSI number, and more. 

Proof of boat insurance is needed to enter any marina and sometimes to gain a cruising permit - for example, in Greece. A third party policy is enough; although most underwriters will require a boat survey before issuing it.

VHF radio licence

Some countries and the Maritime Police will ask for the boat’s VHF licence.

Engine certification

Some nations, like Italy, also check your engine certification - the document which states that the motor of your sailing boat meets certain requirements.

Boat licence or equivalent certification

As mentioned above, it’s a good idea to obtain and carry a boat licence or equivalent sailing qualifications.

On top of these documents, if the local Coast Guard was to board and inspect your vessel, they’d check that you have in-date flares and functioning emergency equipment. 

Don’t forget to take any additional documents or accreditations, such as your driving licence or your diving certification card.

SAFETY EQUIPMENT

There is a lot of safety gear you can get your hands on these days. If you can afford to, invest in as much as you can. Peace of mind has no price tag.

These are the essential items we recommend keeping on board while circumnavigating:

Life jackets with harnesses and safety line

Portable GPS

Satellite phone

Fire extinguishers

Waterproof charts

Extra bilge pump(s)

Offshore life raft

Throwable flotation devices

First aid kit

Water and food

Handheld VHF radio

Waterproof torch

Distress flag

Portable or fixed horn 

Bailer or heavy-duty bucket

Oars or paddles 

Second anchor with chain or line

Emergency steering

Recovery system for man overboard

Radar reflector 

Snorkel and mask to look at the boat underwater

Sail repair kit

A plywood sheet and epoxy.

Remember that once you’re out on the ocean, hundreds of nautical miles from shore, you’re essentially on your own. There is no guarantee that the emergency services will be able to come out to you or another vessel will be nearby to help you out. You’ll need to have the necessary equipment, knowledge, and skills to get yourself back to safety. 

To plan your adventure, you will need to have a rough route in mind. You don’t have to schedule every stop before you set off, but you’ll want to make a general plan. 

If it’s your first circumnavigation, it’s safer to follow the most popular cruising routes and use the trade winds to move across oceans. This involves sailing westward around the world via the Panama Canal and either through the Suez Canal or by rounding South Africa. 

Once you have established which route to take, investigate the times of year when it’s best to take on the longer passages. For example, sailing from Europe to the Caribbean is safest between November and April.

Then, start listing out which countries you could possibly make landfall in. It’s good to have a list, so you can look into each and decide whether you’d like to stop there or not. Bear in mind that weather conditions, food stocks, and boat repairs will often dictate your schedule. You can adjust your course along the way, but you will need to be able to make landfall almost anywhere, so be prepared. 

We can’t go through all the potential routes you may take to sail around the world in this guide - many thick books were written about the subject. We recommend reading World Cruising Routes by Jimmy Cornell to get started. The books explain everything there is to know about the different passages. Cross reference them with pilot charts to choose your route and timing.

ENTERING AND EXITING FOREIGN COUNTRIES

Each time you enter an overseas country, you need to check in the boat and crew. Procedures vary around the world and need to be researched in advance. The process usually goes like this.

You enter a country’s territorial waters and immediately raise the Q flag while heading to an official Port Of Entry without stopping, even if this inconveniences you. Some countries request that you give advance warning of your arrival. Once you get to the Port Of Entry, anchor or request a berth at the local marina.

After making landfall, you have a certain amount of hours (typically 24) to go complete clearance. In most cases, you will need to visit four offices:

Immigration

Port Control / Harbour master.

Each country has a preference in terms of what office you need to head to first. Bear in mind that not all the offices are close to each other. 

Officially, only the captain of the boat is allowed to set foot on land to check in. In some countries you’ll need to wear long trousers and a shirt when visiting these offices as a sign of respect.

To check in, you will need to show the documents we listed above, plus:

Passports of all crew with a valid visa (when required) and 6 months validity minimum

Port Clearance certificate from the previous country

Ship’s stamp (in some countries)

MMSI number

Passport-sized photos of each person on board

Free Pratique from the last port (a certificate stating the boat is free from diseases) 

Photocopies of all documents.

In some countries, they request extra papers, such as a picture of the boat or proof that you have AIS capability.

Don’t forget to read up about the entry requirements for each country you’re headed to beforehand. Don’t rely on books - these quickly get out of date. Since the Covid-19 pandemic hit in 2020, entry rules have changed drastically and are often subject to sudden alterations. Some countries close their borders for long periods of time. The latest information on the regulations is available in English on websites such as Noonsite . It’s also helpful to join cruising Facebook groups for the area you’re travelling to and ask if anyone has more recent information. Not even websites get updated as quickly as things change.

Some countries don’t allow any produce in or to carry guns. Enter a country’s waters fully prepared to check in. Once you’re inside their territorial waters, you must comply with the local laws. 

After you’ve checked in, clearance officers may want to inspect your vessel (either at a dedicated dock or on their own boat), so make sure everything is shipshape. They’ll be looking for illegal drugs (including medicines), alcohol, drones, weapons, and more. Keep any prescriptions or licences on hand. Customs may decide to confiscate or hold some goods (such as drones or firearms) until you leave the country. Once the full check-in procedure is complete, you can lower the Q flag.

When you’re ready to leave a country, you will need to check out. Typically, you will have to go back to one or more of the offices you visited to get your Port Clearance document, which you will absolutely need to check in elsewhere. Make sure to find out how long you have to leave the country before you check out. You may be required to exit the territorial waters as soon as possible. 

Entering and exiting a country can be facilitated by a local agent , who can save you the hassle of visiting the different offices and queueing up. Bear in mind that in many cases, agents are known for charging large sums of money. In a few places, such as the Maldives, hiring an agent is necessary, though.

Safety is a concern many sailors share, especially if they plan to anchor out much of the time. The truth is that only a small percentage of people have the means to get to a boat on the water. In fact, burglaries and violent crimes are more common in low-security boatyards and marinas, which can be reached on foot.

Some countries are known for having higher crime rates against yachts. It’s up to you to interpret the data from safety and security networks and make informed decisions. You could avoid such areas altogether or increase your safety measures before setting sail.

For example, you can make your sailboat or tender less easy to break into or steal - a few heavy-duty locks and a couple of motion sensor lights do the trick most of the time. In higher risk areas, you may also want to invest in a motion sensor alarm and some hatch bars. 

No solution is 100% effective, though, so you should be aware of the threat and be vigilant. Remember that in most countries it’s forbidden to keep guns onboard a vessel.

REACHING FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE 

Unless you can monetise your venture or work while cruising, you will need to be financially independent for years. For most people, being able to sail around the world means saving up for years or waiting until retirement.

Yet, more and more young people have started to work while circumnavigating. Below we have listed some ideas that could help you generate an income while sailing around the world

Seasonal jobs

You can leave your boat in a yard or marina and head home to work every now and then. This arrangement works well for people with seasonal jobs, such as scuba diving instructors, delivery captains, ski instructors, and more. If you’re in no rush, you can even stop in certain countries to obtain a work permit and work for a while.

Online work

Many young cruisers opt for working online - whether they freelance or have a remote job. This set-up is very convenient, as you can work from anywhere in the world with good internet connection. You will need to purchase local SIM cards in every country you visit and possibly buy satellite internet access. 

Be sure to check the legislation of a country before checking in. Many countries allow you to be a digital nomad for up to three months. After this time, you will need to either move on or register for a work visa. Other countries, such as the US, don’t allow visitors to work on American soil even remotely. 

Before accepting a remote job, make sure the company allows you to work from anywhere in the world - some businesses require you to be based in a specific geographical area to comply with certain laws.

Creating sailing content 

Another popular route for cruisers is to create sailing content, which you can either publish on social media as an influencer or sell to sailing magazines, stock video and photography providers, and more. 

Renting property

If you have bought property at home, you can rent it out or host it on AirBnB. Both options involve paying someone to look after the place, find new tenants, do check-ins and check-outs, and more. So in order to generate a good income, you’d likely need to own a few properties.

Sponsorship

If your circumnavigation is somewhat special, you could ask companies to sponsor you. This would entail things like providing education opportunities in some remote countries, collecting data for a sustainability project, and more.

ACCESSING THE INTERNET

Whether you plan to work from the yacht or not, you will need to have access to the internet to plan passages, check the marine weather forecast, keep in touch with family, and more.

When it comes to connecting to the web, you have three main options:

Connect to wi-fis based on land through a wi-fi booster

Use 4G data via a phone, tablet, or router

Purchase a satellite internet device.

All methods have pros and cons. Land-based wi-fis are free to use, but they tend to be slow and you need to go to shore to obtain the password. 4G data is very fast and fairly economical, but you need to buy a local SIM card in every country you visit. Satellite internet works anywhere, but it’s still rather expensive and slow.

Technology is evolving, so getting on the internet will become easier and easier.

While you will likely become a nomad during your voyage, you will still need to pay tax - whether that’s on the money you earn or property back home. If selling your boat in a foreign country, check if you need to pay tax on the sale, too.

To keep things simple, aim to stay a tax resident of your home country - otherwise you will end up having to register to pay it in more than one country per year, which makes everything rather complicated. Moreover, not all countries have double-taxation conventions, so you may end up having to pay tax twice. 

GENERATING POWER

While circumnavigating, you can’t rely on your engine to generate energy. You will need to undertake long offshore passages, where you will need to keep the instruments, nav lights, and fridge on day and night. Your energy requirements will increase significantly.

You need to install a power system, which consists of a number of batteries and one or more energy generation systems, such as:

Solar panels

Wind turbines

Generators 

Hydro generators.

The set-up you choose depends on your energy requirements and vessel. Solar panels take up a lot of space, while a wind turbine needs vertical space at the stern. 

Whatever you decide, make sure to calculate your energy needs accurately, otherwise you may have to save energy by turning the fridge or radar off. It’s easier to upgrade your power system near home or by a big boating centre before your first long passage.

WHAT’S IT LIKE TO SAIL AROUND THE WORLD?

Sailing around the world is an adventure. Adventures are bold, somewhat risky undertakings, which push you beyond your comfort zone and make you grow. Circumnavigating is no exception. 

Along the way, you’ll collect a stream of exciting, invigorating, and exhilarating moments. You will also likely feel scared, uncomfortable, and bored every now and then. Time will slow down, so the days will feel longer. You will learn new things most weeks and get to know yourself better. Emotions will feel deep and you will have lots of time to reflect during long passages.

Expect to be challenged often by your vessel, the weather, local regulations, the sea state, and more. If you can, take it slow. Experience each place and broaden your horizons.

TIPS FOR SAILING AROUND THE WORLD

Before we wrap this guide up, we want to share some tips with you, which will help you better plan your circumnavigation. 

Choose the boat carefully

Picking the right boat is fundamental for a comfortable, safe voyage. She needs to be big enough to provide enough space for you and your crew, but small enough to manoeuvre safely in a marina or harbour. 

All crew members need to be able to sail her solo. She needs to be comfortable underway, so people won’t get as seasick. Most importantly, she needs to be bluewater capable, so it can withstand the test of heavy weather conditions and wear and tear.

Take it slow

Unless you absolutely need to be back home by a certain date, circumnavigating is a lot less stressful if done on a very loose schedule. Try to be flexible and allow for changes of plan, so you can adapt to the circumstances and enjoy the ride more. 

Go with the flow - spend extra time in a country, skip that sail or anchorage, accept dinner invites. Do what you know will make you happier, because the chance will soon be gone.

Picking weather windows

Many sailors find it hard to postpone a passage when the weather is rough. Even if your plans don’t work out, it’s best that you avoid sailing in heavier conditions than you’re confident in.

Don’t save money on gear and maintenance

If you’re on a budget, opt for a smaller, simpler boat, anchoring out more often, and eating out less. Don’t skimp on gear, especially safety gear, and keep your boat maintained to a high standard. Nothing is more important than your safety. Your life and that of your crew depend on your equipment functioning well and your boat staying afloat. 

Don’t leave your boat unattended for long stretches of time

If you can, avoid leaving the boat and going home for months at a time in the tropics. The extreme UV radiation, heat, and humidity can dramatically reduce the life expectancy of your equipment above and below deck. 

If you need to leave your boat somewhere, choose a non-tropical area and haul her out to protect her hull from fouling too much. Allow for a long and rather expensive refit when you make your way back to her.

On longer, more challenging passages taking crew on board is great help. You can share shifts, as well as chores, like cooking. Feeling well-rested while sailing is extremely important, as it leads to making better decisions and handling stress more efficiently. 

You can either take friends and family on board to help you, or hire professional help. Don’t invite novice sailors along for the ride if you can - they will likely need to wake you in the middle of the night to reef the sails or ask about a light on the horizon. Only take as much crew as your boat can comfortably fit underway to avoid creating unnecessary stress on all crew members.

Satellite communication

While it’s still a rather expensive option, satellite communication is a fantastic technology. It allows you to have access to the weather forecast, alert the emergency services, get in touch with a doctor, keep your family up-to-date, and more. With more economical options available on the market these days, it’s an investment worth making.

Perform MOB drills regularly

A Man Overboard situation tends to happen when you least expect it, so it’s essential to memorise what to do in such circumstances. Regular drills are the best way to make sure that everyone on board knows what to do. 

On top of this, of course you’ll need to wear a life jacket when the sailboat is underway and use a tether and harness to secure yourself to the boat. This is especially important in heavy weather conditions and when you’re on watch alone.

Always carry extra food and water

No matter where you are, it’s a good idea to have extra provisions on board at all times. Bad weather may not allow you to get to shore to go to the shops or your passage might take some days longer than it’s meant to. Long-life food doesn’t take up much space and you will never regret having it on board.

Have a base

Having a place to return to every now and then or when things go south is very important. It doesn’t need to be a property you own - it can be your parents’ place or your aunt’s holiday home. Knowing that if anything happens you have a safe place to go back to is priceless.

Keep up with healthcare

It’s tempting to stop going to the doctors altogether when you’re sailing around the world. Flights home cost money and private care can be expensive in certain countries. However, it’s very important that you stay healthy while circumnavigating. Regular check-ups pay off in the long run, when you don’t have to abandon plans due to a health emergency. Make time for adequate healthcare.

There are countless resources you can tap into when it comes to planning a circumnavigation. Here is a list to start you off:

World cruising routes by Jimmy Cornell to plan your passages

World voyage planner by Jimmy and Ivan Cornell 

Reputable cruising guides and pilot books for each country you’re visiting

Modern marine weather by David Burch

Sailboat hull and deck repair by Don Casey

Complete Rigger's Apprentice by Brion Toss

Sailboat electrics simplified by Don Casey

Marine diesel engines by Nigel Calder

Don Casey’s complete illustrated sailboat maintenance manual by Don Casey

Nautical charts

Pilot charts

The Noonsite website to check country entry requirements, Ports Of Entry, and more

Legendary circumnavigators Lin and Larry Pardey ’s books, such as Self Sufficient Sailor

Local Facebook groups for cruisers

Inspiring videos by YouTube sailing channels, such as Follow The Boat .

Don’t forget to download the Deckee app from the App Store or Google Play before setting off on your circumnavigation. Look up anchorages, supermarkets, diving spots, aids to navigation, and more on the map.

Track your passages and share float plans with friends and family. Set up reminders to get a notification when you need to renew your boat registration, service the engine, and more. The app will become an invaluable resource throughout your voyage.

BOAT RAMP ETIQUETTE EXPLAINED

Hurricane preparation for boat owners.

Planning a Circumnavigation

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ OUR DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.

Last Updated on September 13, 2023 by Amy

Plotting world circumnavigation routes is a lot easier than it sounds.  There are cruising boats LITERALLY all over the world.  There are boats in the Northwest passage (up and over Canada), in the Antarctic, and everywhere in between.  There are a few key things to take into consideration, but 95%* of circumnavigation routes follow the same general course.

Table of Contents - Click to Jump

Insurance Restrictions on Circumnavigation Routes

There are two major restrictions put on us by our vessel insurance; stay out of highly pirated areas and stay out of named storm zones.  Insurance restrictions come with the option to ignore them.  You can always go to these restricted places, BUT if something happens, your insurance will not be covered.  Another option is that you can pay significantly more to be covered in these places as well.  We have made the choice for ourselves to follow the restrictions set by our insurance.

By definition, piracy is the act of attacking and robbing ships at sea.  By that main definition, the Caribbean is one of the worst places for piracy.  Petty theft of boats and their tenders is a major issue in some parts of the Caribbean, and steps should be taken to protect yourself and your assets.

However, the piracy of the biggest concern is murder and kidnapping.  There are two main hotspots where our insurance will not cover us;  the Philippines and the Red Sea/Suez Canal (hereby referred to as simply Suez).   Again, people cruise literally everywhere in the world, and there are people who cruise the Philippines (2015 reports state 200 yachts).  The other side of the coin is true too.  Just because you avoid the Suez or the Philippines does not mean you will avoid being kidnapped or murdered.

It’s up to you to decide the level of risk you are willing to take when planning out a circumnavigation route.

Tropical Storms

In North America, it’s a hurricane.  South of the equator, it’s cyclones.  In Asia-Pacific, it’s typhoons.  Either way, your insurance probably has a word or two to say about where you spend tropical storm season.

Our insurance requires us to avoid certain parts of the world during storm seasons.  This is why there is a mass exodus of boats from the Caribbean every year.  Our insurance requires us to be north of roughly the Florida-Georgia line.  Now, that doesn’t mean we are safe from hurricanes, but it does mean if something happens, we will have the  privilege of consoling ourselves of our losses by applying for an insurance claim.

For those moving quickly, your primary concern is systems in the southern hemisphere.  Just make sure you are moving from east to west quickly enough to pass through the storm zone.

World circumnavigation routes, like ours, usually have you dipping out of these storm zones for the season. It’s a great time to haul your boat out for annual maintenance, like we did in New Zealand, Australia, and Thailand.

Tradewinds for Circumnavigating

Around the equator lies the doldrums.  This is typically an area with very little wind.  However, each ocean has a wind pattern.  In the northern hemisphere, winds circulate clockwise.  In the southern hemisphere, winds circulate counterclockwise.  This means that on either side of the equator lies a band of wind flowing from east to west.  This is why 95%* of cruisers plan their circumnavigation routes to sail from east to west.

Factoring the Wind into Outfitting Your Boat

Knowing where you will sail will help you determine what kind of sail performance you are looking for in a boat.  For someone doing a typical circumnavigation route, sailing east to west, you’ll be sailing downwind a lot.  Some monohull owners have complained to us about how uncomfortable their boat is sailing dead downwind.  Catamarans, however, typically perform best downwind.  We have a very smooth ride when we are traveling with the wind and waves.

Outfitting your sail locker also factors in where you are sailing.  For a downwind circumnavigation, spinnakers are highly useful – or so we hear.  We’ve not had terrible success with our spinnaker, but find our screecher to be very useful.  That could possibly be because we deviate enough from the standard downwind route.

For more about sail configurations in a cruising catamaran, read our Sail Trim blog post.

Those Who Sail West to East Circumnavigation Routes

There are a few who do sail the “wrong way”.  It can definitely be done and done fast.  However, you need to have a boat that sails well to wind.  While most catamarans sail well downwind, we do not sail well into the wind.  However, if your catamaran has daggerboards, you’ll sail much better to wind than a catamaran without daggerboards.

Circumnavigation Routes & Bottlenecks

This is why most circumnavigations follow the same basic route.  There are major bottlenecks to passing around the continents, so again, we’ve got the 95%* of boats funneling into one narrow part of the world.

Panama Canal

We paid $1300 to transit the Panama Canal because the only other option is to sail against the wind and waves around either North America or South America.  Taking one of the high latitudes routes is pretty dang extreme, takes a significant amount of time, and a toll on ship and crew.  Ushuaia, a port of call in Argentina, reported 64 boats in 2015, versus 1,079 boats transiting the canal – 95% transiting the canal*.

Torres Strait

The Torres Strait occupies the space between Australia and New Guinea.  It’s fairly small, just 650 nm between Thursday Island and Indonesia’s first port of clearance.

There are some cruisers (like our friends on S/V Field Trip) who are going over the top of New Guinea to get to Southeast Asia.  Getting any further north than that requires dealing with the Philippines – either through or around the top of the Philippines into the South China Sea.

Cape of Good Hope

Traveling around South Africa requires tackling the Cape of Good Hope, which is not to be taken lightly due to the challenges in the winds and currents.  The alternative is the Suez.  There used to be a rally passing through the Suez.  The other alternative is to hire private security, but that’s pretty complex.  Reports show 358 boats sailing through Cape Town verses 19 through the Suez – again, 95% choose Cape Town*.   I know the Mediterranean is a great cruising ground, but we decided if we want to cruise it, we’d rather cross the Atlantic twice than go through the Suez.

How Long Should a Circumnavigation Take?

Barring racing yachts who are smashing world records, it’s not uncommon to complete a circumnavigation in a year and a half.  This is a fairly straightforward and quick route.

The World ARC is a one and a half year rally that circumnavigates the world.  They have a fantastic route and schedule on their website.

Longer circumnavigation routes still use the same general track, but add on detours.   For example, we extended our South Pacific portion into two seasons by sailing south to spend cyclone season in New Zealand.

We’ve met sailors who have taken 15 or more years to circumnavigate. That’s a lot of detours!

Our Circumnavigation Route

Our sailing circumnavigation route took us four years and three months to travel all the way around the world. You can read the summary of our world circumnavigation for more details.

Book: World Cruising Routes

This is LITERALLY the bible of sailing around the world. If you have ever asked yourself (or, god help you, asked on a forum) “I wonder when the best time to sail from X to Y is?” the answer is in this book.

Even though we know our route, I’m still pulling out this book every so often to look up possibilities. It’s a great guide to planning your circumnavigation route overall and planning each individual passage.

Buy Jimmy Cornell’s World Cruising Routes .

Book: Cornell’s Ocean Atlas

This handy reference book is full of windgrams  – “a summary of wind direction and strength derived from the individual windroses along a specific ocean route “. Basically this means you can open a chart for a particular region and month and you will be able to tell where the wind “usually” blows from.

Buy Cornell’s Ocean Atlas .

Book Review: How to Sail Around the World Part-Time

• Who: Linus Wilson and his wife, Janna
• Available: Kindle, Kindle Unlimited or Paperback
• Published: January 2016
• Editing (scale of 1-10, 10 is best): 10

Linus Wilson has been cruising part-time on his 31-foot Island Packet. This is his second book, and in it, he details how one could sail a circumnavigation part-time. I agree – it is possible and might be the solution more potential cruisers should consider.

Wilson pulls a lot of statistics about sailing. Did you know fewer people complete a sailing circumnavigation every year than climb Mount Everest? An hour spent above base camp on Mount Everest is 264 times more dangerous than an hour sailing?

One question unanswered is how long it would actually take to sail the world part-time. Of course, it depends on how much time you dedicate every year, but hypothetically:

• Year 1: the Caribbean to Panama, store in Panama
• Year 2: Panama to French Polynesia, store in FP
• Year 3: French Polynesia to Fiji, store in Fiji
• Year 4: Fiji to Australia, store in Australia
• Year 5: Australia to South Africa, store in SA
• Year 6: SA to the Caribbean

Of course, you’d see a lot less than you would on a 6-year circumnavigation like ours, but you get it done in a fraction of the cost and less risk.

Bottom line: it was a short, interesting, and informative read. If you don’t want to full-time sail, or can’t convince your partner to full-time sail, consider how fulfilling a part-time adventure could be.

*Jimmy Cornell is the foremost expert on tracking cruising boats, and the statistics for this blog post were pulled from his article Where do all the boats go?

23 Comments

Wonderful article. I am from Goa, India. I wish you had come to Goa. I would have happily looked after your boat, and you could have travelled through India and enjoyed its majestic and diverse cultures and sites. I am 67 years old grandfather. I have been coastal and competitive sailing for the past 50 years. I am now planning to go on a circumnavigation on a Leopard 39 sailboat starting from Goa. Hoping to do it in 2 to 3 years. Your article and videos have inspired me. All the best. Thank you for your well written and detailed articles.

Wow, great to hear from you! It is amazing to us when we hear from people like you all over the world! We have some friends who visited Cochin last year on their boat, I think that’s a popular stop for cruisers. I know that formalities in India are complicated.

I have never been, but I love the food and the culture that I’ve experienced so far! I hope we get to visit someday.

Do sail down to Goa anytime you want. I will sort out all you entry formalities. Wish you all the best. Keep inspiring us with your wonderful sailing and videos.

Hi, how many miles is it when circumnavigating around the earth please? Captain cook did it in 60k, but is this because you cant just sail direct around the earth due to islands and storms etc?

Hi! Our circumnavigation was about 34,000 nm. You can read more about it here: https://outchasingstars.com/world-sailing-circumnavigation-summary/

Amy, when you and David are on a long passage, what kind of watch schedule do you keep? Assuming you’re both healthy (unlike your passage to St. Helena), what do you find to be a comfortable limit for the number of days at sea before exhaustion begins to set in?…or does it ever set in for you guys?

We do a soft 7-hour watch. The only actual watch is I do 7 pm to 2 am. Then David goes on watch while I sleep. When I wake up we switch, and he naps. Then when he’s up, I nap. By then it’s time to do the whole thing all over again! The worst night is the second. You’ve been tired, but not tired enough to sleep off your normal routine yet. But after the second night it gets a lot better. Exhaustion does not set in long-term – boredom does!

I really enjoyed reading your article, it’s very informative although that I don’t have a boat, it’s too expensive where I’m from, and it would take a fortune to be registered if it’s allowed in the first place, as authorities put a lot of restrictions for civil citizen to do so after military took over in 60s, for example we can’t camp as a first without a security permit bla bla bla that it raerly issued or thread fishing without a license and permit bla bla bla….etc, there isn’t a proper Marina for docking not even mention the amount of visas that it required. I love to sail one-day but till that time I’m really enjoy reading and watching. I’m from Egypt, and it makes me sad that sailors stop passing by, as we have a great shores, great diving spots, the Suez canal, and the right wind, but to be considered as unstable area for the Somalian pirates acts, and all the Egyptian governmental claims about fighting terrorist and repel ghost they imagine, this is horrible. It’s really tearing me that after around 8000 years on Earth people couldn’t yet handle their conflicts. I’m sorry to make it very long. Glad that some people had the privilege to try and be able to chasing stars and wind. Godspeed

Sarah, thank you for your comment! It’s amazing to us that we have someone reading from Egypt!

I recently read a memoir about a yacht who sailed through the Suez, and it sounded like they had a lot of difficulties, not just with pirates and corruption, but it’s hard sailing too! Egypt is very high up on my list of places I would truly love to visit because of its amazing history and culture.

We hope that somehow you get to enjoy sailing, even if it’s just continuing to follow us along.

You are amazing, all the best in your upcoming, and hopefully everyone can enjoy sailing in Egypt one day, and be able to see you here in the future.

Hi Amy, first, what a nice simple but very informative blog. I have run a ‘sailing for disabled people’ organisation for the last 25 years and as part of our 25th anniversary are planning to build a 20m cat for a round the world adventure. Planned for start in 2025 I need to get people to understand the real dangers and risks of such travel as well as the good things, would you mind if I used your blog in this matter, I would of course say that is yours. Details of us are under the ‘new projects button’ at http://www.disabledsailing.org

Hi Mike! You are welcome to link to our blog post. If you need anything beyond that, send us an email and we can talk more!

Excellent and informative article. I’d just like to point out the following statement where it states: “Ushuaia, a port of call in Chile, reported 64 boats in 2015….”

Please note that Ushuaia is not located in Chile, but rather within the Tierra del Fuego province of Argentina.

Thank you so much for the correction! I will fix it right away. Geography lesson of the day. 😉

Now you can completely delete my comment 🙂 It’s all sorted. Happy and safe sailing to you and your family. Antonella

Nice write up. Very helpful. Keep up the good work. However sailing through the suez is not really that dangerous. My friends Ingo and Maya sailed through from turkey to India and onward to thailand and had no probs with pirates.

I do hear that the piracy situation is improving. I do think there are a lot of good reasons to go around South Africa though, and I am glad we did.

Great informative article, thanks for sharing.

Where do you store your bladder when it is full? Also, thanks for all the info and videos. It has helped us a great deal in preparation for purchasing our boat,

Thank you! I’m glad you’ve found it helpful. We store the duel bladder in the cockpit.

On the longer passages, how much extra fuel do you carry in your blatter tank. What motering range do you think is sufficient for your longer passages?. I’m thinking the Helia goes about 750 miles on 125 gallons of diesel. Thanks Jon

Our fuel tank holds 125 gallons, plus four 5-gallon jerry cans, plus the 50-gallon fuel bladder, to total 195 gallons. If we motor at 1800 rpms with one engine it’s roughly .8 gph. Theoretically, our tanks should take us about 900 nm. Of course, we go months and thousands of miles without using all of our diesel.

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17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World

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Catamarans are quickly outstripping single-hull boats for long-distance journeys. They are more stable and comfortable , and some can travel more than 200 miles in a day. In today’s article, I have put together a complete (well almost) list of some of the best catamarans for circumnavigating the planet; the question is, which one is best for you?

The best catamarans for sailing around the world include: 

• The Fountaine Pajot Ipanema 58

These cats focus on speed, safety, and comfort for longer journeys. 

This article will show you the seventeen best catamarans for long journeys, and why they’re the best. You’ll also learn some great tips on what to look for in a Catamaran and how to save money by buying a used catamaran. Let this list be a jumping-off point for your future research!

Pro-tip; here are the actual costs of maintaining a cat and here are considerations on how to circumnavigate .

Table of Contents

The Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World 

A catamaran is a double-hulled boat with a deck or cabin area in between (bluewater cat definition in this article ). The double hull design means that the boat rocks less, sits higher on the water, uses less fuel to sail, and can be sailed in shallower waters than a single-hulled boat without worrying about grounding. 

Catamarans come in a variety of sizes and can be sail-powered or motor-powered and range from single-person sailing boats to family-sized yachts. Every catamaran design is different, and the twin-hull shape offers many ways to customize the layout of a ship. 

Each boat on this list is a larger catamaran (+40ft, more on size here ), so if you’re going to sail around the world, you want lots of space for provisions and rest.

Of course, there are tons of technical specs for each of these boats, but I’m going to focus on the overall features of each of these catamarans, what makes them stand out, and why they would each be an excellent choice for a transatlantic journey. 

Antares 44i 

The Antares 44i is an excellent option for sailing around the world and was explicitly designed for long-distance cruising. It performs well in any weather conditions, can be sailed easily by two people, and you’ll be able to sail long distances and live in comfort. 

Although it can be easily sailed by a crew of two I believe that a true bluewater cat should be set up for single-handed sailing, more on that in another article .

This catamaran features a stateroom on each hull and a forward cabin with plenty of storage space. The living and entertainment features include a flatscreen tv and a high-end deck speaker system. 

With this model, Antares dedicates itself to high-quality boats with optimal rigging and engine configurations. 

Atlantic 42

Atlantic is no longer building this catamaran, but there are usually a few pre-owned boats on the market. You can also get it made custom if you love the design, but be prepared to spend more money on a custom boat (custom boat also gets custom problems ;)). 

The Atlantic 42 is slightly smaller than some of the other catamarans on this list but is a seaworthy vessel. 42 ft is what most sailors I interview ( in this article ) said was the smallest cat to safely cross big oceans. It is also a decent size to counter the risk of capsizing (more on that here ).

It has a forward cockpit and pilothouse, which gives the owner a better use of space and makes the boat easier to navigate. With single-handed capability, one person can sail it easily and let the rest of the crew relax. 

One of the best-praised aspects of the Atlantic 42 is its galley, more extensive than most 42-footers (12.8-meter) can offer. 

One of the few 50 footers (15.24 meters) that can be sailed by just one person (many would of course disagree on this).

The Catana 50 is a catamaran worthy of an overseas journey. Its size adds to its stability on the open waters and its ability to sail straight through the choppy ocean and windy conditions. 

The Catana is also incredibly spacious on the inside, with substantial cabins and showers. The biggest downside to the Catana 50 is its price, as it’s much more expensive than most of its competitors. 

Catana also holds up well against some of the fastest cruising cats out there, here’s a list of the fastest cruisers if you are interested in that.

However, if you can find a gently-used Catana 50, you can rest assured that this boat will last! 

The Dolphin 42 is unique because of the use of daggerboards instead of fixed keels. This upgrade means that the boat has some pretty decent upwind performance while at the same time being faster downwind.

Centerboards and daggerboards offer some interesting downsides compared to mini keels. This is an interesting discussion and I suggest you read another one of my articles if you want to deepen your knowledge a little.

These catamarans are some of the lightest on the market. Not many Dolphins were made, so they are relatively hard to find. However, if you want a small, lightweight boat capable of going great distances, the Dolphin 42 is an excellent choice. 

Fountaine Pajot Belize 43

The Fountaine Pajot Belize is another well-built cruising yacht. Its core is made of foam instead of balsa, which reduces the risk of structural damage due to a rotten core in case of water intrusion. 

The design of Belize offers many options for customizability, with large open spaces and a combined saloon, navigation, and dinette area. 

There are two styles of Belize catamarans for sleeping quarters. You can either purchase a boat with an entire primary suite on one hull or one with two cabins in each hull. The first option is great if you are sailing the world alone and not expecting many guests, as it increases the storage capacity. 

Understanding what factors to consider when getting a cat can be hard, there are just so many of them (such as the daggerboard discussion above), I have tried to compile some of the most important in this article .

The boat also has wraparound windows to increase the sense of space in the galley. 

Fountaine Pajot Lucia 40

Fountaine Pajot is one of the best sailboat manufacturers existing today, as their boats are well made and highly versatile. The Lucia 40 is no exception – it’s a smaller boat but has a lot of room for moving around and on-board living. 

The living area is remarkably spacious on this catamaran for its size. 

The galley and lounge easily accommodate 6+people. The Lucia 40 doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sailing either, as the narrow hulls slice through choppy waters with ease. 

Most catamarans today are built to withstand rough weather but that doesn’t matter as much if the crew isn’t up for the task, I firmly believe that the most important thing a boat should consist of, is knowledge. Therefore taking online courses ( two free here ) or reading books ( my favorites here ) is imperative.

Gemini 105M

Gemini’s boats have been on the market for years and are solidly built for cruising. This boat is one of the most popular ever made, I personally would consider something different for offshore cruising, but since it has such a good reputation, I felt I had to add it to the list.

If you want to understand why I am hesitant to take this boat around the world, I recommend you read my article: What are trampolines on a catamaran?

The Gunboat 62 is a great catamaran and set the standards for the rest of the impressive Gunboat lineup. It’s sleek and spacious while being robust and capable of transatlantic journeys. You can easily travel the world in a Gunboat 62 with several people and not feel cramped. 

The yacht was made for speed and power and remains one of the fastest catamarans on the market, even rivaling the newer Gunboat models.  GABO

Although the earlier models of the Gunboat 62 weren’t designed for a lot of cargo, you can still find space for everything you need without compromise. 

Lagoon catamarans are known for their reliability and ease of use. If you are considering a catamaran for the first time and are unsure about the technicalities of sailing, a Lagoon boat is a great option. 

The Lagoon 380 is probably the smallest cruiser on this list, which makes it better suited for solo or couple sailing.  

When I go looking to buy something, whether it be a boat, campervan, or whatever, I create a checklist and classify all the things I want either by NEED or NICE to have.

I believe the Lagoon 380 to be sub-optimal for my NEEDS, even though it does check a lot of NICE boxes, there’s a step-by-step article on the NEED and NICE method here .

There are several cabin options available on the Lagoon 380, but if you’re sailing by yourself, you can settle for three cabins and a larger galley and living space. With a smaller cockpit and broader side decks, the Lagoon 380 packs a lot of practicality and ease of sailing into a more compact catamaran. 

If you like the idea of a Lagoon boat but want a little more space, the Lagoon 42 is the upgraded version of the Lagoon 380. With all of the same benefits, it comes with more space for cabins or storage, making it one of the best-selling Lagoons of all time. 

The Lagoon 42 is also a faster cruiser built for strength. While it’s not the fastest on the market, it works well in choppy waters and windy conditions, making it great for the beginning sailor to go on a more extended trip. 

Many people have completed an around-the-world sail with this ship.

Although there is a flybridge version, I would recommend the “open” version due to several factors, some including increased windage and a higher boom. More on flybridges pros and cons here .

For stability, safety, and durability, you can’t beat the Lagoon 42. 

The Leopard 45 performs better with less storage weight because of the relatively low bridge deck clearance. If the boat is fully loaded, you could experience some wave pounding. However, the cockpit is open and airy, with devices that block the sun and provide maximum comfort while sailing. 

The Leopard 45 is an incredibly beautiful boat,   and has a strong reputation for excellent build quality!

Leopard catamarans are one of my personal favorites, as such I have written an entire article about the brand, so if you want to understand its pros and cons then here is the link . Gabo

Designed in South Africa, it features a high rear arch for extra support and very smoothly connected decks. The galley is large and open, and most Leopards offer a four-cabin plan. If you are traveling with another person, this boat is an excellent option for you! 

The Manta 42 is another classic catamaran that you can buy used (at a decent price), as it is an incredibly seaworthy vessel. While still in production, the Manta was one of the most popular catamarans on the market. 

It is still in high demand amongst circumnavigators. Buying a used Manta 42 usually means that you inherit some of the previous owner’s boat upgrades! 

The Manta 42 also made it to my list of the 9 safest catamarans on the market ( link ).

This blue water cat can be sailed by one or two people, making it ideal for liveaboard couples or long-distance shorthanded sailing. The galley is in the saloon ( instead of in one of the hulls ), making the cabins below more spacious and better equipped. 

Overall, the Manta is well equipped for sailing around the world. 

Nautitech 44

Nautitech is an excellent brand of the catamaran, with several different designs per boat. The Nautitech 44 has a unique feature, you can have it with two options for steering: twin wheels or a single wheel.

The Nautitech 44 also features a cockpit on the same level as the saloon. The door between the two is more convenient than a hatch and dramatically reduces the risk of water damage during rain pour. 

This is also the same boat that aeroyacht president Gregor owns, he has offered some great insights into Nautitech in the book Catamarans (amazon link )

Outremer 45

Outremer is famous for being one of the fastest brands of catamarans on the market. If you need speed, the Outremer 45 might be the perfect choice for you. It has a top speed of 16 knots, which is higher than almost every other catamaran of its class. 

While the Outremer 45 is known for speed, it doesn’t compromise on the quality of living. 

You can settle into life on this boat with complete peace of mind. Even as a beginning sailor, the steering is simple and easy to use, and the autopilot is top of the line, so you’ll be able to sail across the ocean in an Outremer without issue. 

Privilege Serie 5

A French-designed catamaran, the Privilege Serie 5 is one of the most comfortable 50-foot (15 m) yachts available. The unique cabin layout includes the master cabin in the boat’s center instead of in one of the hulls. 

The Privilege Serie 5 is also incredibly easy to sail, despite its larger size. 

The sails and controls lead to the helm, where the raised deck makes it easy to see all around the deck. If you want to cross the ocean with a full crew then the Privilege Serie 5 might be perfect for you! 

Seawind 1000

The Seawind 1000 is the smallest boat on this list, measuring 33 feet (10 meters) long altogether. However, this doesn’t mean that it’s not livable. If you are sailing on your own or with a partner, there is more than enough space to live in the Seawind 1000, which includes the option of a centered cabin or two hull cabins. 

Because it’s small, the Seawind 1000 is easy to handle. The mast and sails are all manufactured for extra stability and ease of use. 

Overall, the Seawind 1000 is an excellent example of a simple, safe, and seaworthy catamaran. 

Note: since this is a small catamaran it will also be more sensitive to heavy weather so trip-planning becomes even more important.

The Voyage 44 is one of the oldest cats on this list, having had its hay-day in the mid-1990s. However, this also means that a used Voyage 44 will be cheaper than a newer boat. If you can find a Voyage with previous responsible owners, you will inherit any upgrades and fixes that they’ve made on top of a very seaworthy boat. 

The Voyage 44 has more storage and space than most cruisers of its size and is known for behaving very well in choppy waters. 

This catamaran does its job well while providing adequate space for cooking, sleeping, and living aboard. 

What To Look For in a Long-Distance Cruising Catamaran

If you are planning to sail around the world, you need to be very careful about which kind of catamaran you decide to use. Many of the things you want in a boat really comes down to personal preference, so be sure you know what design preferences you want before you start shopping! 

Size and Payload

The most important thing to consider when buying a catamaran is how much space and cargo you need because the larger the boats are, the bigger the payload it can handle. Decide how long you want the ship to be and how much you’re taking with you. 

It’s vital not to overload a catamaran, this will reduce performance and increase risk of unwanted behavior in heavy seas.

Cabin Placement  

Most catamarans have options for a “Maestro” cabin placement, where one entire hull is the master suite, and the other cabins are located on the opposite hull.

Cockpit and Protection From The Weather

Is the cockpit on the boat you’re looking at covered or open? This can make a difference on the high seas, especially during rainy weather. 

The size of the ship also can affect how many people you need as a crew. If you’re traveling by yourself or with one other person, you don’t want to buy a boat that needs a larger crew. 

Buying Used? 

If you don’t want to spend the money on a brand new catamaran, I don’t blame you. Several of the ships on this list are out of production and can only be found used. However, for circumnavigation, you do want a boat of high quality to keep you safe and dry until you make it to your destination.  

When buying a suitably used catamaran, it’s essential to look at the refit history of the boat more than the year it was made. Catamarans are sturdy, and the general design has been the same for at least the past decade. 

If you find a newer, larger, cheaper boat, you should look into its history. 

Your best bet to save money while buying a catamaran will be to buy an older, probably smaller boat with an excellent refit history and no serious issues. It will still be an investment, and a sturdy used catamaran will serve you well. 

Final Thoughts

No matter which catamaran you decide to buy for your journey, you’ll be able to sail safely and comfortably. Catamarans are great yachts for long-distance sailing, and the ships on this list are the best of the best. These brands are time-tested and ready to accompany you on an adventure around the world! 

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

• Wikipedia: Catamaran
• Cruising World: A-Z Best Cruising Catamarans 
• Dreamy Yacht Sales: Four Best Catamarans for New Buyers
• Atlantic Cruising: Good Cat/Bad Cat
• Yachting World: Catamaran Sailing Across the Atlantic
• Boat Affair: What is a Catamaran? 
• Nautilus Sailing: Catamaran Sailing

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

3 thoughts on “ 17 Best Catamarans for Sailing Around the World ”

I like the efforts you have put in this, regards for all the great content.

Thanks Elisabeth I really appreciate the kind words 🙂

I appreciate you sharing this blog post. Thanks Again. Cool.

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Sailing Around The World – Planning For Global Circumnavigation

August 14, 2021 by Martin Parker Leave a Comment

There’s something about sailing around the world that captures the imagination and inspires. For some, it’s the reason for learning to sail in the first place. Others only start to think about global circumnavigation as their skills and experience grow. Regardless of what motivates you to circumnavigate, one thing remains true. For most, it will be the challenge of a lifetime.

But how do you start the process? For someone new to sailing, the prospect of circumnavigation can be truly daunting. With so much to think about and plan for, many get overwhelmed and abandon their dreams before they begin. 

This brief article aims to get you thinking about the task of circumnavigation and what it takes to practically and successfully navigate the process, from start to finish.

What Constitutes a Global Circumnavigation?

The definition of circumnavigation is a matter of debate, but there are some defined rules regarding a nautical, wind-powered trip where racing is concerned. A basic description would be to follow a route that forms a great circle. The passage must be at least 21,600 nautical miles for racing, and you must cross the equator, starting and finishing in the same port.

A cruising circumnavigation will often take a route that covers a much greater distance, with multiple diversions to visit places of interest. So long as you meet the essential criteria stated above, it can be classed as a circumnavigation.

If you are in a hurry, the current world record is held by Francois Gabart. He completed an official circumnavigation in just 42 days, 16 hours, and 40 minutes in December 2017.

No Substitute for Experience When Sailing Around the World

Some people spend a lifetime planning their trip, while others have just thrown the basics together and departed. In both cases, some have been successful, and some have not. We are trying to point out that while your planning is a necessary task, it does not guarantee success. Our best advice? Don’t keep putting off your departure because you haven’t planned everything 100%. 

Start with the basic, most important tasks, and get ready to learn as you go. After all, thinking on your feet will be a big part of your circumnavigation journey. 

Solo Circumnavigation, or Go With a Crew?

Single-handed circumnavigation is perfectly possible. However, it’s a huge challenge that presents certain obstacles and dangers you could avoid with a crew. We highly recommend going with a crew for your first attempt, be it friends, family, or staff. The average time for cruising circumnavigation is around 18 months, although many people travel slowly over multiple years. 

If none of your family and friends are keen, you can use websites like Ocean Crew Link to find crew. You could also consider joining another boat as part of a crew to complete your first journey.

How Long Will it Take to Circumnavigate the Globe?

This really is an open-ended question. How long you have might be a better question. If you’re in a hurry, the current world record is just under 43 days. For most of us, though, we’re circumnavigating to see more of the world at a leisurely pace.

On average, most complete their journey in approximately 18 months. Riley and Elayna from Sailing La Vagabonde started their trip in 2014 and are still going strong. They have even begun raising their young son on board during the journey. Theirs is a lifestyle choice that most won’t want, though. They even took a risky approach and started sailing around the world with little to no experience. It’s a route we wouldn’t recommend, but it shows that circumnavigation is possible – even for beginners.

In the end, your circumstances and endurance will determine how long you spend on your journey.

Is Sailing Around the World Dangerous?

If anyone tries to tell you that it’s not slightly dangerous to circumnavigate the globe, don’t believe them. Sailing thousands of miles from land, passing through inclement weather, and relying on yourself and your crew presents many challenges and at least some level of risk. With proper knowledge, planning, and execution, though, you should be able to navigate your way through safely. By correctly preparing for your journey, you’ll have a better understanding of the risks, allowing you to reduce or even eliminate certain dangers. 

A good starting point is learning your basic sailing skills. These skills include setting your sails and trim, boat handling, and basic navigation, to name a few. Practicing emergency procedures also helps to set yourself up to manage emergency scenarios if they arise. Man-overboard scenarios, how to make a mayday or pan-pan call, having sufficient rescue equipment, and having excellent navigation skills will all help prepare you to make the best of a bad situation. There is a wealth of information and training available both online and through professional organizations, and we strongly recommend taking several training courses until you feel adequately prepared.

Choosing a Boat for Global Circumnavigation

When you consider that people have successfully traversed the oceans in a myriad of craft – including small rowing boats – perhaps the type of boat you choose is not the most critical factor. It’s true that with help, you can cross oceans in almost anything, but the less suitable the boat, the more challenging, uncomfortable, and dangerous it will ultimately be.

The range of boats available may seem baffling, but the standard for making significant passages are the cruising bluewater style yachts. Our recent article on bluewater sailboats for under $100,000 offers insight into some well-known, competent, and affordable cruising yachts .

Vessel Considerations For Sailing Around the World

• Size: Yacht size affects many different aspects of sailing. Since you’ll be spending a lot of time onboard, having the extra space of a 40-foot yacht or bigger will undoubtedly come in handy. In this yacht category, you’ll also get a good sail area to cater to the varying conditions you’ll encounter.
• Weight: Although a heavy yacht won’t break any speed records, it will keep you steady when the sea conditions are challenging. Strong winds can become challenging in the open ocean, and having a heavy-displacement vessel will help you keep your course.
• Keel Design: Fin keels are very popular, and they’re featured on many modern boat designs. However, carefully consider where you intend to go. A bilge keel, for example, gives you a lower draught so you can visit more shallow waterways and will allow you to moor in areas where the tide will leave you aground. Additional benefits include easier maintenance when aground and reduced roll for added comfort.
• Sailing Winches: There are pros and cons to electric and manual winches, but hand winches make sense on circumnavigation passages from a practical point of view. Electric winches save you effort and help if you are sailing short-handed, but they need an efficient power source. Manual winches are more straightforward and less likely to cause you trouble.

What Gear Do You Need for Sailing Around the World?

There is some sailing gear that is essential for safely navigating a circumnavigation. While this list is far from exhaustive, your boat should be equipped with the following: 

• Life Jackets: This should go without saying, but it’s amazing how many don’t consider it essential. Ending up in the water thousands of miles from land is scary enough, but it could very well be a death sentence without a buoyancy device.
• Lifeline: Prevention is better than a fix, so attaching yourself to the boat by a lifeline should be common sense when conditions call for it.
• Ocean Liferaft: Inside should be an equipment and ration pack that will last longer than 24 hours.
• Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB): An EPIRB is a device that automatically begins transmitting a rescue signal as soon as it’s submerged in water. 
• Battery Charging System: You will spend most of your time sailing during a circumnavigation. Running your engine to charge your batteries will not last long, and it’s also not advisable. Install at least one method, but preferably two or more, that can charge your batteries under sail. Solar panels, wind turbines, and towed impellors give you three different options for power, depending on the conditions.
• SSB Radio: A Single Side Band (SSB) radio is a commonly used maritime communication system in the open ocean and remote parts of the world. Although AM radios are also widely used, SSB radios offer much better reliability and performance.
• Pactor Modem: Connecting your SSB to a modem will allow you to send and receive emails nearly anywhere at sea. 
• Flare Pack: Flare packs are used to signal distress to other boats or rescue services, and having them on board could potentially save your life.

Other Items to Consider for Sailing Around the World:

• AIS Transponder: Safe navigation at sea, particularly at night, requires at least one pair of eyes to monitor the sea for natural obstacles and other ships. While using an AIS transponder does not remove this requirement, it gives you additional information to avoid collisions at sea. 
• Satellite Phone: Keeping in contact with friends and family can be a lifeline that keeps you going in the most challenging times. A satellite phone will allow you to make direct calls from nearly anywhere on the ocean.

Natural Factors to Consider Before Global Circumnavigation

Your circumnavigation journey will cover more than 21,000 miles, and during that time, you will likely encounter everything mother nature can throw at you. Through good planning, though, you can choose to avoid the worst of the weather and take advantage of favorable winds and ocean currents.

Trade Winds

The trade winds blow continuously throughout the year, thanks to cold air at the poles and warm air at the equator. These temperature differences create westerly winds (from the west) at the poles and easterly winds around the equator. 

Trade winds nearer the poles are much stronger than at the equator, and racers tend to take advantage of this – the passage will be colder and far less comfortable, though.

Cyclone and Hurricane Season

Cyclones and hurricanes occur mainly when the ocean water is warm. This happens between July and October in the northern hemisphere and between December and April in the southern hemisphere. Using this information, it’s a simple task to plan your passage, avoiding the main storm seasons. Of course, storms can still occur at any time in the year, so always be prepared for the unexpected.

Major Ocean Currents

In general, the ocean’s major currents follow the direction of the trade winds, but in some areas, such as South Africa, they can work against you. This makes following the trade winds even more appealing when sailing around the world.

Things To Do Before Sailing Around the World

Below, we outline some of the ways you should prepare before setting out on your first circumnavigation.

As we mentioned previously, some intrepid sailors have completed circumnavigations with no formal training and have learned while en route. While it is possible to do this, we wholeheartedly recommend you get some basic training before setting off.

Most sailing courses around the world offer certification that is acceptable in other countries. The Royal Yachting Association is the primary certification agency in the UK, and the US Sailing School is the leading agency in the US. 

The most widely accepted certificate is the International Certificate of Competence for Operator of Pleasure Craft (ICC). Once you have your national license, you can apply for the ICC, which is accepted in virtually every country worldwide. Even if a country doesn’t accept the ICC, most charter companies will, allowing you to charter a yacht nearly anywhere.

A variety of insurance policies are available for sailors, but there will likely be clauses in the policy referring to piracy and storms. If you ignore the clauses and visit restricted areas, your insurance will not cover an incident.

Piracy refers to anything from abduction and murder to petty theft and assault. Depending on where you’re at in the world, you’ll need to be vigilant to combat potential downfalls. 

The Philippines and the Suez Canal are two hotspots for more severe piracy, and your insurance likely will specify these areas as high risk.

Only you can assess the risk you are willing to take. Avoiding known problem areas can be beneficial, but incidents can still occur anywhere in the world. 

Get the Right Sails For Your Route

Assuming you will follow a typical cruising circumnavigation route, you’ll spend most of your time downwind. Aside from the fact that many monohull sailors find continuous downwind sailing uncomfortable, you’ll need to kit out the sail locker appropriately. Spinnakers and screechers are the order of the day, along with standard genoa sizes or furling genoa.

Many countries require visas for transit through them, and depending on where you’re going, they could take weeks or even months to traverse. You need to plan carefully, as arriving in a country’s waters without the correct paperwork could prove troublesome.

Interested in joining a like-minded social circle? Get a conversation started on the  new #BoatLife forum  by leaving a question or comment today!

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment below, share it on social media, and subscribe to our email list.

For direct questions and comments, shoot me an email at [email protected]

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How to Sail Around the World

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Sailing around the world can be the experience of a lifetime - an adventure that lets you know you are living life to its fullest and not settling for a life that is too dull and ordinary. However, getting on a boat and sailing around the world is not something you can do a week after you decide you want to do it. Is sailing around the world something that an ordinary person without a lot of money can do at all?

You might worry that sailing around the world is only for the rich. Getting your own boat costs a fortune, and you might fear that without your own boat, it is hard to find an opportunity to go on a long sailing voyage. However, it is easier to find a crew and sail around the world on someone else's boat than you would think.

One of the best ways to sail around the world without having a lot of money is to volunteer on a sailboat. The work that you do on the boat may be enough that the crew will take you for free. Volunteering to work on a sailboat might be the single best way to sail around the world without a lot of money.

Other options are paying money to be part of a crew by sharing costs, finding friends that have sailboats, volunteering on a research boat, or paying a boat off over time if you have the income. People with the right skills, even if they are only cooking or knowing how to be a good deckhand, will find it easier to become part of a crew.

Table of contents

How to sail around the world without a boat

If you really want to sail around the world, you can find a way to do it. A sailing trip around the world is a realistic, achievable adventure. You merely have to be serious about doing it.

It is not the same as a trip to space - that you might not be able to achieve even if you are determined to do it. Sailing around the world is something an average person can do if they plan it out and look for an opportunity.

Volunteering to be on a boat

If you have a lot of sailing experience, it might not be difficult for you to find a crew to sail around the world with. Your nearest marina could very well be looking for deckhands. Not every boat will be heading off on an around the world trip, but some of them might be.

Many boats sailing around the world need an extra crew member and will be happy to take you if you have a bit of sailing experience. People underestimate just how much demand there is for volunteer crew members.

When a couple of wealthy people want to sail around the world, they don't necessarily want to do it themselves. Keeping a sailboat going with very few people on board is hard work. If there are only two sailors, they will have to take turns sleeping to keep the boat going safely.

A third or fourth crew member can mean the difference between a pleasant voyage and an exhausting one. Not everyone who sails around the world has a mega yacht and a large crew. They might have a smaller boat and only need a third person.

The best part of volunteering on a boat is that most of the time, it isn't even hard work. Sometimes you will steer the ship; other times, you will do some chores. It is not difficult to do this.

The fun you will have massively outweighs the work you will do. You will get to explore islands, see many different countries, meet new people, and end your voyage with stories to tell. Don't worry about doing unpaid work - it is more than worth it.

Paid work on a sailboat is also possible to get, but you must have quite a bit of sailing experience. Volunteering is a more realistic way of traveling around the world than looking for paid work on a boat.

Sailing around the world on a friend's boat

One disadvantage of sailing around the world as a volunteer is the possibility of not getting along with the people you travel with. While you might like the people you volunteer for very much, there is a chance that you will not. If you have the opportunity, traveling around the world on a friend's boat should be your first choice.

If you go off on shorter sailing voyages, you will meet people that have the resources to sail. Hopefully, you should know the right people when someone decides they want to sail around the world. They might be happy to take you along for free.

Being out at sea with someone you do not end up liking is sometimes a problem even if you know the person a little bit in advance. Even if you like each other now, you might not like each other when you are out to sea together for weeks, months, and years. Don't let this scare you away from going on a long sea voyage, but be confident that you can get along with the person before you head out to sea for years.

Save enough money and get a boat with your friends

While a sailboat that you can take around the world costs around $75000, this is not such a fortune if you split the cost between several people. If you and five of your friends want to sail around the world, it will only cost you $15000 each to get a seaworthy boat. $15000 isn't exactly pocket change, but you might be able to save that in a reasonable amount of time if you cut your costs.

If you had started saving a few years ago, you and your friends would have enough money to pay for the entire trip now. The best time to start saving was years ago; the next best time to start saving is today. If you have friends that have the same dream of sailing around the world, you might be able to talk them into making a serious plan to do it.

Sail around the world on a research ship

You don't have to be a scientist to serve on a research ship that studies marine wildlife. Such vessels also need deckhands, cooks, and so on. You will probably have to volunteer rather than find a paying job, but you will still be able to sail to many locations, perhaps even around the world, for free.

Offer your skills as a cook

Cooking is one of the best skills you can have if you are looking for a crew to sail around the world with. If you are an excellent cook with a bit of sailing experience, you have a good chance of becoming part of a crew. You need to be able to improvise and cook something tasty from the food you have available.

You do not always have to be a certified chef to cook on a sailing ship, merely being a good cook is enough. Only a larger ship might require their cook to be a certified chef, and even then, that is not always the case.

Teach the children of families sailing around the world

If a family is sailing around the world with children with them, they might not have time to homeschool the children. Such families will bring a teacher with them. This is less likely than some of the other options, but if you would be good at being a nanny and teacher on a sailboat, you might be able to find the opportunity.

Pay to be part of a crew

A crew might be happy to take you if you can pay for your share of the cost of the voyage. This may be expensive, but it is much more affordable than getting your own boat.

The daily cost of a trip for a single person might be $20, $50, or $70. Don't get ripped off by people trying to charge a lot more than that. They should not be charging you a very high daily cost, and are trying to make a profit from you if they do.

Paying to be part of a crew is a good idea if you are offered a fair price. It can add up to a lot of money if you are out to sea for a long time, but it is cheaper than buying a boat yourself.

Can you sail around the world on a rented sailboat?

Possibly not. A rented sailboat may have restrictions on where you can sail it, and you might not be able to rent it for long enough to circumnavigate the globe.

Then again, some people might have more luck than others. Give it a chance - try to find a sailboat you can rent for a long time and sail anywhere at a reasonable price - but this is not always the best option.

What if I have no experience on a sailboat?

You are not likely to be offered the opportunity to go on an around the world trip if you have no sailing experience. Also, not everyone loves being out to sea, and you should take a shorter voyage to know whether or not you would like it first. A shorter voyage will also get you the experience you need to find a crew for a longer voyage.

When you travel across the world at the slow speed of a sailboat, it makes you aware of just how large the world truly is. The world is a huge and mostly empty place where you can sometimes sail for days and not see another boat. Even though you can see for miles in each direction and travel many miles each day, a long time can go by without you seeing a single ship.

If you think you would love sailing, there is a better than even chance that you will. However, other people can find sailing too tiring. The crew has to keep the boat going 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether it is pouring rain out or not.

As well as there being a lot of work involved in sailing, there is also the possibility that you might find sailing boring, as it is not fast-paced. Probably, those who think they will love sailing will end up loving it - but there are no guarantees. Don't go off on a long voyage unless you know that you are happy on a short journey.

How can I get sailing experience if I have no sailing experience?

It may be a challenge, but you do have a chance of getting on a boat even if you have never been on a ship before. Don't lie about having any previous experience; instead, look for a crew that will accept a sailor without experience.

Sometimes, even an inexperienced sailor can find a boat just by walking around at the docks. If you live in or near a sailing town, you might be able to find a boat very quickly. Present yourself as a likable and trustworthy person, and you have a chance of getting on a boat with no sailing experience.

A shorter voyage can be a step towards a long one

After you get on a sailboat for the first time, you will probably decide you love it. You will love the escape from ordinary life, and how the night sky looks away from street lights. You will not usually think sailing is difficult or slow-paced.

Hopefully, you can meet the right people and learn enough about sailing that you are included on a trip around the world when someone you know decides to go. You do not need to go on a lot of shorter sailing trips before you sail around the world; you just need some rather than no experience.

How to sail around the world if you have a boat already

If you already have a boat, then you can get to the fun part a lot more quickly. There are still things to take care of in advance and to be mindful of while at sea, but you can get to your adventure sooner rather than later.

What route should you take sailing around the world?

Usually, people sail around the world on an eastward route. An eastward route is with the wind, so a westward route is more difficult. You can choose to take whatever route you want, but most people take an eastward route and follow the wind.

An eastward route means that you will sail from west to east, so you will be sailing west on an eastward route. If you are setting sail from the United States, you will first sail to the Panama canal and then sail west from there across the pacific.

After crossing the pacific, you should be north of Australia. Sail from there across the Indian Ocean and around the cape of good hope. From the cape, you can sail northwest again, eventually reaching the United States.

You can choose to sail to many other places as well, depending on how long you want to be at sea. For example, you could choose to sail from southern Africa up to Europe and the Mediterranean before returning to the United States.

One common alternative to the typical eastward route is to sail through the red sea and the Mediterranean rather than around South Africa. This is a somewhat faster route than sailing around the cape of good hope. Don't attempt this unless it is currently safe, as there are pirates off the coast of East Africa.

If you are looking for a more challenging route, you could sail under south America instead of using the Panama canal. A more daring option is to take the northwest passage and sail around North America. These routes take longer, and if you take the northwest passage, it is risky to sail through the arctic water.

How long does it take to sail around the world?

You can sail around the world in about 15 months, but it's better to spend a few years at sea and not rush the trip. If you try to make the trip in less than two years, you will not be able to stop anywhere for any length of time, as any delay means that hurricane season will cut you off for the rest of the year.

How much does it cost to sail around the world with your own boat?

While you are out to sea, you will spend $3000, $2000, or at the very least $1000 per month. If you try to spend only $1500 per month or less, you might have a lot of trouble. Higher numbers are more realistic, and if you stop a lot, the monthly cost can easily go over $3000.

You will also have to buy equipment, which adds to the cost of your boat and the daily cost of living. Equipment can cost you more than $15000, and it is dangerous to be out to sea with shoddy equipment. You will also be charged a fee - more than $1000 - when you cross the Panama canal .

You will also run into other fees while you are out to sea. Having your boat tied down during a hurricane will cost you around $500. You will also have to pay for storage, and you will run into other fees at ports.

Repairs are another part of your expenses, as you may have to pay $1000 or $2000 to fix your autopilot or engine. If you want satellite internet while you are out to sea, this will cost you about $120 per month, and you will only be able to use a very small amount of data. Nonetheless, $3000 a month is more than enough to pay for all of these expenses, and $1500 per month might be enough if you can keep your costs low.

Take everything into account, or else your expenses may be higher than you planned. You might rent a car when visiting a country, have to pay for medical expenses, or go to bars and restaurants. Expenses can appear suddenly and unexpectedly.

Some people also like to fly home during the middle of a long sailing trip. They want to get away from the sea for a while and then return to their boat and continue. Flying home only once or twice might not make your trip vastly more expensive.

Know exactly where you are going before you set sail

A sailing trip around the world has to be taken seriously and planned out properly in advance. You want to see as much of the world as possible on your adventure, so plan accordingly. When heading across the pacific, most sailors want to see Bora Bora, Tahiti, Samoa, and other famous pacific islands.

Estimate where you will be on each month of your trip

You should make a timeline even if you do not stick to it. You should know roughly where in the world you will be during each week or month of your journey. Without knowing where in the world you are going to be each month, it is not even easy to know how long you will be out to sea for.

Timing is also crucial for avoiding hurricanes. Sailing is an adventure in part because it is fairly dangerous. Don't make it any more dangerous than it typically is.

You absolutely have to avoid sailing through hurricane-prone parts of the world during hurricane season. Hurricanes can and do kill foolish sailors. You must time out your trip so that you sail through hurricane-prone parts of the world when there is no risk of a hurricane that time of year.

Take the wind direction into consideration. You can sail against the wind, but it is easier to sail with it. Know which way the wind will blow during each part of your journey.

Know as much about each place you are sailing through as possible

Is it safe to dock in each of the countries you plan to stop in? Some of the countries you are planning to stop in may be dangerous.

Are all of these countries considered safe for small groups of sailors? The last thing you want is to be taken advantage of somewhere where the law might not be able to help you.

Take care of everything in advance

Make sure you get everything done before you leave. Some things can only be done before you set sail and not in the middle of the trip. Get all of the paperwork you need, and get any vaccinations you need before the trip.

If you need visas to visit the countries you plan to visit, get this work done in advance. It will be much harder to take care of these things after you have already set sail. Go to your doctor for a medical examination before you leave, and take enough of any medication you need with you on your trip.

Make sure the boat is in excellent condition

Have a professional look at your boat first. There could be dangerous technical problems with your boat that you might not immediately notice. Be on the safe side and get your boat looked at properly first.

Buying a used boat is not always the best idea. The cost of fixing your boat may be more than you bought the used boat for in the worst cases. Going to sea with a serious problem with your ship could be a disaster, so let a boat mechanic take a look at your vessel first.

Prepare for emergencies

You and everyone you are sailing with should know what to do in an emergency. If a heavy storm hits you, what do you do? Everyone in your crew has to know what to do in these situations.

Pirates are still very real, and you have to know what to do if you encounter dangerous people at sea. The sea can be unpredictable, and your emergency plans should cover many different situations.

Taking the right emergency supplies with you is a must. Bring a life jacket, flares, and a fire extinguisher. Make sure you have clothing that will keep you warm and dry in whatever weather and climate you encounter. Have a list of numbers for all of the emergency personnel you might call if you are in danger.

Make sure your boat is still in good condition whenever you port

One of the most important things you can do for your own safety while out to sea is check your boat every time you stop at any port. Always make sure that your boat is still in good condition. More than a few people die sailing, and this is often because of not immediately noticing and fixing problems with their ships.

As well as maintaining your ship, you have to maintain other equipment. A broken satellite phone or broken radar could get you killed. Regularly test your equipment.

Obey the laws wherever you go

As soon as you sail close enough to the coast of any country, you are no longer in international waters and have to obey the laws of whichever country you are in. You cannot know a lot about the laws of each country you are visiting, but you should know a little. Be aware of any unusual laws that are relevant to sailors.

Be prepared to be away from home for years

Whether you are sailing away on your own boat or not, you are going to be away from home for a long time. While it is possible to sail around the world fast (the world record is doing it in only 40 days), an around the world sailing trip takes three or four years on average. Sailing around the world is not a vacation but an epic adventure that takes up a significant chunk of your life. Eventually, you will return to life on land, and you will see life differently after your sailing experience.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Best boats to sail around the world

Oct 20, 2020

less than a min

Sailing around the world is regarded as one of the safest ways to travel, according to recent statistics. The only way for it to become a little bit worrisome is if you are not careful. That said, having a good boat to sail worldwide will also increase your chance of being safer and enjoying your trip better.

Therefore, sailing around the world boats do possess some optimal characteristics and features that make them better suited for such long voyages. These features would be durable hulls, lightweight structures, cutting edge technology as well as large volume and length to ensure comfort. Some of the most popular world cruising boat brands include:

• Hallberg-Rassy

The World Cruising Club has been featuring boats and comparing them throughout their rallies. Based on their choices, here is a list of the 8 most popular cruising boats to sail around the world:

• The Hylas 54 is commonly seen in the Caribbean. This is one of the most popular world cruisers due to its strong hull and ergonomic deck layout. In addition, it includes a raised saloon, a wide interior, and elegant finishes. Hylas 54 achieves a good balance between a chic design and good engineering.
• Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54DS is an interesting and eye-catching boat. It was introduced to the marine world in 2003 and has been a sight for sore eyes ever since. This is a powerful and strong structure including a deep-draft keel and an in-mast furling mainsail. ts exterior seems quite futuristic and cannot go unnoticed.
• The Amel Super Maramu is a boat intended to be sailed by a couple. It features electric furling gears and high-tech sail handling systems. There are only 500 of this model made.
• Oyster 56 is a very popular boat for Britain. It is quite interesting as this boat is so small it can be  operated by just two people, but it is durable and strong enough to cross oceans. In addition, despite its size, it is regarded as a very comfortable vessel. Most importantly, the Oyster 56 is quite fast and has won several rallies and done very well in regattas.
• The Hallberg-Rassy 42 is a Swedish boat designed by German naval architects. It features tough center-cockpits, an ingenious interior layout, great materials, impeccable building quality, and last but not least, luxurious finishes.
• Bavaria 42 is a mass-production boat that can easily be compared to luxurious yachts when it comes to crossing oceans. This is an affordable boat with a long waterline length and a couple of sleeping cabins. What distinguishes it from the rest is its straightforward interior and its high quality.
• The Amel 54 was introduced to the naval world in 2006. It is an utterly comfortable boat featuring a contemporary design, durable materials, and luxurious amenities.
• Beneteau 57 is an ingenious masterpiece that features a very fast hull with an interesting and attractive shape. The finishes inside the boat scream luxury, while the center-cockpit is quite flexible and practical.

The most common routes for the best boats to sail around the world include the Canary Islands to St Lucia, Virginia to Tortola, and Tortola to Portugal. You can catch a glimpse of these boats in those routes as part of the WCC rallies. Explore more boats and other interesting facts in TheBoatAPP blog.

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Home » Blog » Travel » So you want to sail around the world. Now what?

So you want to sail around the world. Now what?

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: November 20, 2023

Sailing around the world is a major undertaking, but you don’t have to be super rich, athletic, or have salt water running in your veins to do it.

I know bluewater cruisers and round-the-world sailors from all walks of life: young couples,  single women ,  families with kids , and an  85-year-old Reverand .

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When I was in my late twenties, my husband, Robin, and I spent three years sailing 13,000 nautical miles from Vancouver, Canada to Mexico and then across the Pacific to Australia in our 35-foot sailboat.

We didn’t complete a full circumnavigation of the world—our goal was to reach Australia—but that’s pretty common for cruisers our age (I’ll talk more about routes and timelines below).

I grew up dinghy sailing and Robin had no sailing experience at all. We had office jobs, average incomes, and knew almost nothing about bluewater sailing when we started. 

It was two years from buying our boat to casting off the dock lines and setting sail. However, we did 95% of our preparation in the year before we left. This just goes to show how quickly you can go from “dreamer” to “doer”.

How to sail around the world

For every bluewater cruiser I know, I can think of dozens of “armchair sailors” who dream of sailing around the world but never get out and do it.

Why? There are some big hurdles to overcome before you set sail: getting offshore experience, finding the right boat, outfitting it with all the right gear, learning how to be self-sufficient, and fixing things that break. 

Not to mention finding a way to finance it all.

There’s also a strong psychological and social element: “What will my parents, friends, and colleagues think?” “Will I be able to find work again with a big hole in my resume?”

Going bluewater cruising is a radical departure from the norm and an entirely new way of living. You’ll be faced with challenges, but that’s what makes it such an incredible experience.

If you want easy travel, get a camper van. Sailing around the world is a life-changing adventure. 

So, I wanted to share how we made our transition from landlubbers to bluewater cruisers and share a few resources to help you on your way.

1. Get some offshore sailing experience

Sure sailing around the world sounds romantic—the freedom of the open ocean, sunsets on a beach in Bora Bora, sipping fresh water from a coconut you picked yourself (words of caution: climbing a palm is much harder than it looks!).

But are you willing to put up with  the not-so-fun stuff  that comes with it?  Seasickness , scary conditions, sleep deprivation from  sailing at night , repairing your boat when it breaks (which it will), and being thousands of miles from friends and family?

Some of the best moments in my life were on the boat, but I’ve also had experiences that put me way out of my comfort zone.

It’s not simply a matter of being  mentally tough  (though that helps), some people are just never going to enjoy the sailing life.

The question is: is it right for you? What about your partner, your kids, or whoever else is coming along for the ride? 

Bluewater sailing can blow up relationships. I’ve heard many stories about sailing couples investing tens of thousands in their boats, only to set sail and discover that one or both of them hate it. 

So, before you buy a bluewater boat, quit your job, or give up your studio apartment, you (and your crew mates) should  go and get some offshore sailing experience . 

Spending a week on an offshore passage will not only teach you valuable skills, but it will also give you a taste of the challenges and joys that come with bluewater cruising.

There are plenty of ways to get experience if you don’t already own a boat:

• Take a course at an  offshore sailing school
• Try  sailboat hitchhiking
• Look for crewing opportunities (or pay for a spot) on a rally boat in the  ARC  (Atlantic Ocean crossing),  Pacific Puddle Jump  (Pacific Ocean crossing), or  Baja Haha  (San Diego to Cabo). 
• Become a crew member on a friend’s boat 

2. Find your community and immerse yourself in cruising culture

If you want to go cruising, you’re going to need a support network of people who’ve been there and done it.

We received so much help leading up to our trip (and along the way). Our liveaboard friends and neighbors in Vancouver helped us fix up our engine, rewire our boat, and find a great deal on a new set of sails, just to name a few. 

There are lots of ways to  find your sailing community , either online or in person. I highly recommend mooring your boat in a  liveaboard marina , where you’ll likely be surrounded by other bluewater cruisers.

You can also learn a lot from other people’s stories. Immerse yourself in bluewater cruising culture: read the  classic sailing books , subscribe to a magazine like  Good Old Boat  or  Cruising World , listen to  sailing podcasts , and follow a few  sailing Youtube channels  or  sailors on Instagram .

3. Make a plan

There are many different routes for sailing around the world. Most cruisers sail the easier legs—following the trade winds across the Atlantic and Pacific, transitting the Panama Canal —and spend their time exploring beautiful places and cruising grounds like the Galapagos Islands, French Polynesia, and New Zealand. 

Only a few cruisers take on the harder routes—transiting the Northwest passage, Southern Ocean, or Indian Ocean (perhaps you’ve heard of the infamous Cape Horn or the Cape of Good Hope?).

For route planning, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Jimmy Cornell’s  World Voyage Planner  which shows you how to sail from anywhere in the world to…well, anywhere in the world.

How long does it take to sail around the world?

The current world record for sailing around the world is 40 days, 23 hours, and 30 minutes (IDEC 3, skippered by Francis Joyon). But unless you’re going for the speed record, you’re going to want to visit the different countries you sail to.

I know cruisers who’ve circumnavigated in as little as five years and others who spend decades making the big loop. 

In my experience, it doesn’t pay to be in a rush because inevitably things don’t go to plan.

Your boat will break down and need repair which often means spending time in a boatyard. 

You may find yourself waiting weeks if not months for crucial parts. 

You may need to fly home in the middle of your cruise (as we did) when a relative is ill or dies. 

Or, you may just fall in love with one of the remote places you visit and want to stay for a while.

Bad weather and hurricane season will dictate when and where you sail. For example, we had originally planned to cross the Pacific in 2016, but we didn’t feel ready. So, we waited a whole year for the right conditions and crossed in the spring of 2017.

My recommendation is to give yourself a minimum of three years to trial the cruising life . Make a plan but don’t be disappointed if you have to throw it to the winds.

4. Make a cruising budget

When people learned that we were traveling the world on our sailboat, they often assumed that we were independently wealthy, which couldn’t have been further from the truth!

We’ve cruised for as little as $1000 a month, but when it comes to cruising budgets, the sky is the limit. It all depends on:

• Your boat . Smaller boats cost less to buy and maintain.
• Destinations . We found places like Mexico and Fiji very affordable, while places like French Polynesia and Australia were quite expensive. 
• Your timeline. Most of the young cruisers we knew were on three-year timelines (because that’s what they could afford). The retirees and families we met often had the financial means to cruise for longer (sometimes indefinitely). Some had houses that they rented, and others would take breaks in places like New Zealand where they worked regular jobs.
• Whether you’re willing to work along the way. We wrote for sailing magazines while we were cruising, but it wasn’t enough money to fund our trip. We mostly relied on savings. With technology like Starlink and the post-pandemic remote work boom, it’s probably easier today to  earn money while cruising . However, cruising is a full-time job. It can be challenging to cover ground while keeping up with work commitments
• Your lifestyle. As I mentioned, it’s possible to  sail around the world on a budget . But we lived pretty rough: no air-conditioning, no freezer, no hot water—at one point, we hadn’t taken a shower for 8 months!

When making your budget, I’d suggest perusing a few  sailing blogs  where cruisers post their monthly expense. 

Also, there are plenty of  creative ways to finance a sailboat . Some people even manage to  travel the world for free by buying and selling their boats in the right markets . 

5. Buy a bluewater boat

You can’t sail around the world in any old sailboat.  Bluewater boats have specific design characteristics  that make them appropriate for offshore sailing. 

I love data, so I made a list of the  best bluewater sailboats  by looking at 2,000 boats that were entered in the Pacific Puddle Jump, a cross-Pacific rally, over the last decade. We also have a list of  smaller boats  which I recommend if you’re on a budget.

Once you have your list, you can get busy searching YachtWorld, Craigslist, and these other  great places to buy used boats . 

Keep in mind that a bluewater boat isn’t necessarily a seaworthy boat. It may have structural damage, unsound rigging, or need an expensive retrofit. Uncover any lurking issues (and know what they’ll cost to fix) before you sign on the dotted line.

We had a very in-depth  boat checklist  that we used to inspect every boat we considered buying. We also hired an accredited marine surveyor, twice, to survey every detail of our boat. The first time was for the purchase, the second time was when we were preparing to go offshore.

For more on how to search,  understand boat values , and close the deal, check out our series on  how to buy a boat .

6. Live on your boat

The next big step on your cruising journey will be moving onto your boat.

We lived on our boat for two years before we set sail and it taught us so much about the boat (read: what needed to be fixed) as well as ourselves (and whether we could handle close-quarter life).

By moving aboard you’ll learn if living on a boat is right for you  and your family. You can also save a bunch of money for your trip. After two years of living aboard, our rent savings paid for the purchase of our boat.

7. Prepare yourself

Preparing yourself for going offshore is a major undertaking. You’ll need to learn advanced navigation, weather, and excellent seamanship, among other things.

It’s not enough to know the theory. Get out and practice with your gear and become comfortable with maneuvers like reefing,  heaving to , sailing downwind with a pole out genoa , and  anchoring under sail .

In addition, you should become intimately familiar with your boat’s systems. Sailboats break down at sea (here are the  most common problems ). So, you have to be capable of fixing your boat when you’re hundreds of miles from shore. 

Become an expert in your boat’s electrical system , propulsion, rigging, sails, and plumbing, before you go.

When the pandemic hit, a lot of sailing education moved online. Now there are plenty of great  online sailing courses  covering everything from learning the parts of a sailboat to celestial navigation.

That being said you can’t beat on-the-water instruction and offshore experience (see #1 for offshore sailing courses). 

8. Outfit your boat

Preparing your boat for offshore will take dedicated effort and money, especially if it’s an older boat that’s not been previously equipped for bluewater sailing.

In addition to fixing existing issues and replacing old equipment, you’ll want to add offshore gear like a  watermaker , a boom brake , downwind sails , self-steering wind vane, life raft,  satellite phone , AIS, solar panels, and inverter. 

Not to mention all the spare parts you’ll need to keep these systems running. 

Needless to say, outfitting can get pretty expensive but you can save money by buying used boat parts and second-hand sails .

We spent six months in the boatyard, working full-time on our 1979 Dufour 35 to get her ready to sail. We built a solar arch , installed panels, replaced our rigging, added a roller furler, replaced our anchoring setup, removed 30 years of antifouling paint, and much much more. 

9. Do a shakedown cruise

Next, it’s time to test your boat (and yourself) by taking it on a shakedown cruise. The idea of a shakedown is to test your boat’s performance after any major changes or repairs. The goal is to find any issues (and fix them) before going farther afield. 

We circumnavigated Vancouver Island for our shakedown cruise. It took us a little over a month and allowed us to test our systems in a variety of conditions including ocean swell, fast currents, and light and moderate wind speeds.

Despite checking and fixing every system on our boat over the preceding months, we still had issues. Our engine quit, we struggled to get our wind vane working, and we had to make a few adaptations to our brand-new sails. But that’s the whole point of a shakedown cruise!

10. Go now!

“Go small, go simple, go now” is a popular cruising philosophy and one that we adhere to.

Life is short and we’ve seen poor health and other life situations bring cruising adventures to a halt.

There’s no ideal time to go cruising. You can be young or old, with or without kids, retired or working. 

Certainly don’t wait until you can afford a larger boat. A  small boat  was our ticket to cruising early in life because it made it more affordable. 

If your dream is to sail around the world, start working towards your cruising dream NOW. You won’t regret it.

Let us know how we can help you on your bluewater journey and what topics you’d like to learn more about by leaving us a message in the comments.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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The Ultimate Guide to Sail Types and Rigs (with Pictures)

What's that sail for? Generally, I don't know. So I've come up with a system. I'll explain you everything there is to know about sails and rigs in this article.

What are the different types of sails? Most sailboats have one mainsail and one headsail. Typically, the mainsail is a fore-and-aft bermuda rig (triangular shaped). A jib or genoa is used for the headsail. Most sailors use additional sails for different conditions: the spinnaker (a common downwind sail), gennaker, code zero (for upwind use), and stormsail.

Each sail has its own use. Want to go downwind fast? Use a spinnaker. But you can't just raise any sail and go for it. It's important to understand when (and how) to use each sail. Your rigging also impacts what sails you can use.

On this page:

Different sail types, the sail plan of a bermuda sloop, mainsail designs, headsail options, specialty sails, complete overview of sail uses, mast configurations and rig types.

This article is part 1 of my series on sails and rig types. Part 2 is all about the different types of rigging. If you want to learn to identify every boat you see quickly, make sure to read it. It really explains the different sail plans and types of rigging clearly.

Guide to Understanding Sail Rig Types (with Pictures)

First I'll give you a quick and dirty overview of sails in this list below. Then, I'll walk you through the details of each sail type, and the sail plan, which is the godfather of sail type selection so to speak.

Click here if you just want to scroll through a bunch of pictures .

Here's a list of different models of sails: (Don't worry if you don't yet understand some of the words, I'll explain all of them in a bit)

• Jib - triangular staysail
• Genoa - large jib that overlaps the mainsail
• Spinnaker - large balloon-shaped downwind sail for light airs
• Gennaker - crossover between a Genoa and Spinnaker
• Code Zero or Screecher - upwind spinnaker
• Drifter or reacher - a large, powerful, hanked on genoa, but made from lightweight fabric
• Windseeker - tall, narrow, high-clewed, and lightweight jib
• Trysail - smaller front-and-aft mainsail for heavy weather
• Storm jib - small jib for heavy weather

I have a big table below that explains the sail types and uses in detail .

I know, I know ... this list is kind of messy, so to understand each sail, let's place them in a system.

The first important distinction between sail types is the placement . The mainsail is placed aft of the mast, which simply means behind. The headsail is in front of the mast.

Generally, we have three sorts of sails on our boat:

• Mainsail: The large sail behind the mast which is attached to the mast and boom
• Headsail: The small sail in front of the mast, attached to the mast and forestay (ie. jib or genoa)
• Specialty sails: Any special utility sails, like spinnakers - large, balloon-shaped sails for downwind use

The second important distinction we need to make is the functionality . Specialty sails (just a name I came up with) each have different functionalities and are used for very specific conditions. So they're not always up, but most sailors carry one or more of these sails.

They are mostly attached in front of the headsail, or used as a headsail replacement.

The specialty sails can be divided into three different categories:

• downwind sails - like a spinnaker
• light air or reacher sails - like a code zero
• storm sails

The parts of any sail

Whether large or small, each sail consists roughly of the same elements. For clarity's sake I've took an image of a sail from the world wide webs and added the different part names to it:

• Head: Top of the sail
• Tack: Lower front corner of the sail
• Foot: Bottom of the sail
• Luff: Forward edge of the sail
• Leech: Back edge of the sail
• Clew: Bottom back corner of the sail

So now we speak the same language, let's dive into the real nitty gritty.

Basic sail shapes

Roughly speaking, there are actually just two sail shapes, so that's easy enough. You get to choose from:

• square rigged sails
• fore-and-aft rigged sails

I would definitely recommend fore-and-aft rigged sails. Square shaped sails are pretty outdated. The fore-and-aft rig offers unbeatable maneuverability, so that's what most sailing yachts use nowadays.

Square sails were used on Viking longships and are good at sailing downwind. They run from side to side. However, they're pretty useless upwind.

A fore-and-aft sail runs from the front of the mast to the stern. Fore-and-aft literally means 'in front and behind'. Boats with fore-and-aft rigged sails are better at sailing upwind and maneuvering in general. This type of sail was first used on Arabic boats.

As a beginner sailor I confuse the type of sail with rigging all the time. But I should cut myself some slack, because the rigging and sails on a boat are very closely related. They are all part of the sail plan .

A sail plan is made up of:

• Mast configuration - refers to the number of masts and where they are placed
• Sail type - refers to the sail shape and functionality
• Rig type - refers to the way these sails are set up on your boat

There are dozens of sails and hundreds of possible configurations (or sail plans).

For example, depending on your mast configuration, you can have extra headsails (which then are called staysails).

The shape of the sails depends on the rigging, so they overlap a bit. To keep it simple I'll first go over the different sail types based on the most common rig. I'll go over the other rig types later in the article.

Bermuda Sloop: the most common rig

Most modern small and mid-sized sailboats have a Bermuda sloop configuration . The sloop is one-masted and has two sails, which are front-and-aft rigged. This type of rig is also called a Marconi Rig. The Bermuda rig uses a triangular sail, with just one side of the sail attached to the mast.

The mainsail is in use most of the time. It can be reefed down, making it smaller depending on the wind conditions. It can be reefed down completely, which is more common in heavy weather. (If you didn't know already: reefing is skipper terms for rolling or folding down a sail.)

In very strong winds (above 30 knots), most sailors only use the headsail or switch to a trysail.

The headsail powers your bow, the mainsail powers your stern (rear). By having two sails, you can steer by using only your sails (in theory - it requires experience). In any case, two sails gives you better handling than one, but is still easy to operate.

Let's get to the actual sails. The mainsail is attached behind the mast and to the boom, running to the stern. There are multiple designs, but they actually don't differ that much. So the following list is a bit boring. Feel free to skip it or quickly glance over it.

• Square Top racing mainsail - has a high performance profile thanks to the square top, optional reef points
• Racing mainsail - made for speed, optional reef points
• Cruising mainsail - low-maintenance, easy to use, made to last. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• Full-Batten Cruising mainsail - cruising mainsail with better shape control. Eliminates flogging. Full-length battens means the sail is reinforced over the entire length. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• High Roach mainsail - crossover between square top racing and cruising mainsail, used mostly on cats and multihulls. Generally have one or multiple reef points.
• Mast Furling mainsail - sails specially made to roll up inside the mast - very convenient but less control; of sail shape. Have no reef points
• Boom Furling mainsail - sails specially made to roll up inside the boom. Have no reef points.

The headsail is the front sail in a front-and-aft rig. The sail is fixed on a stay (rope, wire or rod) which runs forward to the deck or bowsprit. It's almost always triangular (Dutch fishermen are known to use rectangular headsail). A triangular headsail is also called a jib .

Headsails can be attached in two ways:

• using roller furlings - the sail rolls around the headstay
• hank on - fixed attachment

Types of jibs:

Typically a sloop carries a regular jib as its headsail. It can also use a genoa.

• A jib is a triangular staysail set in front of the mast. It's the same size as the fore-triangle.
• A genoa is a large jib that overlaps the mainsail.

What's the purpose of a jib sail? A jib is used to improve handling and to increase sail area on a sailboat. This helps to increase speed. The jib gives control over the bow (front) of the ship, making it easier to maneuver the ship. The mainsail gives control over the stern of the ship. The jib is the headsail (frontsail) on a front-and-aft rig.

The size of the jib is generally indicated by a number - J1, 2, 3, and so on. The number tells us the attachment point. The order of attachment points may differ per sailmaker, so sometimes J1 is the largest jib (on the longest stay) and sometimes it's the smallest (on the shortest stay). Typically the J1 jib is the largest - and the J3 jib the smallest.

Most jibs are roller furling jibs: this means they are attached to a stay and can be reefed down single-handedly. If you have a roller furling you can reef down the jib to all three positions and don't need to carry different sizes.

Originally called the 'overlapping jib', the leech of the genoa extends aft of the mast. This increases speed in light and moderate winds. A genoa is larger than the total size of the fore-triangle. How large exactly is indicated by a percentage.

• A number 1 genoa is typically 155% (it used to be 180%)
• A number 2 genoa is typically 125-140%

Genoas are typically made from 1.5US/oz polyester spinnaker cloth, or very light laminate.

This is where it gets pretty interesting. You can use all kinds of sails to increase speed, handling, and performance for different weather conditions.

Some rules of thumb:

• Large sails are typically good for downwind use, small sails are good for upwind use.
• Large sails are good for weak winds (light air), small sails are good for strong winds (storms).

Downwind sails

Thanks to the front-and-aft rig sailboats are easier to maneuver, but they catch less wind as well. Downwind sails are used to offset this by using a large sail surface, pulling a sailboat downwind. They can be hanked on when needed and are typically balloon shaped.

Here are the most common downwind sails:

• Big gennaker
• Small gennaker

A free-flying sail that fills up with air, giving it a balloon shape. Spinnakers are generally colorful, which is why they look like kites. This downwind sail has the largest sail area, and it's capable of moving a boat with very light wind. They are amazing to use on trade wind routes, where they can help you make quick progress.

Spinnakers require special rigging. You need a special pole and track on your mast. You attach the sail at three points: in the mast head using a halyard, on a pole, and on a sheet.

The spinnaker is symmetrical, meaning the luff is as long as its leech. It's designed for broad reaching.

Gennaker or cruising spinnaker

The Gennaker is a cross between the genoa and the spinnaker. It has less downwind performance than the spinnaker. It is a bit smaller, making it slower, but also easier to handle - while it remains very capable. The cruising spinnaker is designed for broad reaching.

The gennaker is a smaller, asymmetric spinnaker that's doesn't require a pole or track on the mast. Like the spinnaker, and unlike the genoa, the gennaker is set flying. Asymmetric means its luff is longer than its leech.

You can get big and small gennakers (roughly 75% and 50% the size of a true spinnaker).

Also called ...

• the cruising spinnaker
• cruising chute
• pole-less spinnaker
• SpinDrifter

... it's all the same sail.

Light air sails

There's a bit of overlap between the downwind sails and light air sails. Downwind sails can be used as light air sails, but not all light air sails can be used downwind.

Here are the most common light air sails:

• Spinnaker and gennaker

Drifter reacher

Code zero reacher.

A drifter (also called a reacher) is a lightweight, larger genoa for use in light winds. It's roughly 150-170% the size of a genoa. It's made from very lightweight laminated spinnaker fabric (1.5US/oz).

Thanks to the extra sail area the sail offers better downwind performance than a genoa. It's generally made from lightweight nylon. Thanks to it's genoa characteristics the sail is easier to use than a cruising spinnaker.

The code zero reacher is officially a type of spinnaker, but it looks a lot like a large genoa. And that's exactly what it is: a hybrid cross between the genoa and the asymmetrical spinnaker (gennaker). The code zero however is designed for close reaching, making it much flatter than the spinnaker. It's about twice the size of a non-overlapping jib.

A windseeker is a small, free-flying staysail for super light air. It's tall and thin. It's freestanding, so it's not attached to the headstay. The tack attaches to a deck pad-eye. Use your spinnakers' halyard to raise it and tension the luff.

It's made from nylon or polyester spinnaker cloth (0.75 to 1.5US/oz).

It's designed to guide light air onto the lee side of the main sail, ensuring a more even, smooth flow of air.

Stormsails are stronger than regular sails, and are designed to handle winds of over 45 knots. You carry them to spare the mainsail. Sails

A storm jib is a small triangular staysail for use in heavy weather. If you participate in offshore racing you need a mandatory orange storm jib. It's part of ISAF's requirements.

A trysail is a storm replacement for the mainsail. It's small, triangular, and it uses a permanently attached pennant. This allows it to be set above the gooseneck. It's recommended to have a separate track on your mast for it - you don't want to fiddle around when you actually really need it to be raised ... now.

Why Use Different Sails At All?

You could just get the largest furling genoa and use it on all positions. So why would you actually use different types of sails?

The main answer to that is efficiency . Some situations require other characteristics.

Having a deeply reefed genoa isn't as efficient as having a small J3. The reef creates too much draft in the sail, which increases heeling. A reefed down mainsail in strong winds also increases heeling. So having dedicated (storm) sails is probably a good thing, especially if you're planning more demanding passages or crossings.

But it's not just strong winds, but also light winds that can cause problems. Heavy sails will just flap around like laundry in very light air. So you need more lightweight fabrics to get you moving.

What Are Sails Made Of?

The most used materials for sails nowadays are:

• Dacron - woven polyester
• woven nylon
• laminated fabrics - increasingly popular

Sails used to be made of linen. As you can imagine, this is terrible material on open seas. Sails were rotting due to UV and saltwater. In the 19th century linen was replaced by cotton.

It was only in the 20th century that sails were made from synthetic fibers, which were much stronger and durable. Up until the 1980s most sails were made from Dacron. Nowadays, laminates using yellow aramids, Black Technora, carbon fiber and Spectra yarns are more and more used.

Laminates are as strong as Dacron, but a lot lighter - which matters with sails weighing up to 100 kg (220 pounds).

By the way: we think that Viking sails were made from wool and leather, which is quite impressive if you ask me.

In this section of the article I give you a quick and dirty summary of different sail plans or rig types which will help you to identify boats quickly. But if you want to really understand it clearly, I really recommend you read part 2 of this series, which is all about different rig types.

You can't simply count the number of masts to identify rig type But you can identify any rig type if you know what to look for. We've created an entire system for recognizing rig types. Let us walk you through it. Read all about sail rig types

As I've said earlier, there are two major rig types: square rigged and fore-and-aft. We can divide the fore-and-aft rigs into three groups:

• Bermuda rig (we have talked about this one the whole time) - has a three-sided mainsail
• Gaff rig - has a four-sided mainsail, the head of the mainsail is guided by a gaff
• Lateen rig - has a three-sided mainsail on a long yard

There are roughly four types of boats:

• one masted boats - sloop, cutter
• two masted boats - ketch, schooner, brig
• three masted - barque
• fully rigged or ship rigged - tall ship

Everything with four masts is called a (tall) ship. I think it's outside the scope of this article, but I have written a comprehensive guide to rigging. I'll leave the three and four-masted rigs for now. If you want to know more, I encourage you to read part 2 of this series.

One-masted rigs

Boats with one mast can have either one sail, two sails, or three or more sails.

The 3 most common one-masted rigs are:

• Cat - one mast, one sail
• Sloop - one mast, two sails
• Cutter - one mast, three or more sails

1. Gaff Cat

2. Gaff Sloop

Two-masted rigs

Two-masted boats can have an extra mast in front or behind the main mast. Behind (aft of) the main mast is called a mizzen mast . In front of the main mast is called a foremast .

The 5 most common two-masted rigs are:

• Lugger - two masts (mizzen), with lugsail (cross between gaff rig and lateen rig) on both masts
• Yawl - two masts (mizzen), fore-and-aft rigged on both masts. Main mast much taller than mizzen. Mizzen without mainsail.
• Ketch - two masts (mizzen), fore-and-aft rigged on both masts. Main mast with only slightly smaller mizzen. Mizzen has mainsail.
• Schooner - two masts (foremast), generally gaff rig on both masts. Main mast with only slightly smaller foremast. Sometimes build with three masts, up to seven in the age of sail.
• Brig - two masts (foremast), partially square-rigged. Main mast carries small lateen rigged sail.

4. Schooner

5. Brigantine

This article is part 1 of a series about sails and rig types If you want to read on and learn to identify any sail plans and rig type, we've found a series of questions that will help you do that quickly. Read all about recognizing rig types

Related Questions

What is the difference between a gennaker & spinnaker? Typically, a gennaker is smaller than a spinnaker. Unlike a spinnaker, a gennaker isn't symmetric. It's asymmetric like a genoa. It is however rigged like a spinnaker; it's not attached to the forestay (like a jib or a genoa). It's a downwind sail, and a cross between the genoa and the spinnaker (hence the name).

What is a Yankee sail? A Yankee sail is a jib with a high-cut clew of about 3' above the boom. A higher-clewed jib is good for reaching and is better in high waves, preventing the waves crash into the jibs foot. Yankee jibs are mostly used on traditional sailboats.

How much does a sail weigh? Sails weigh anywhere between 4.5-155 lbs (2-70 kg). The reason is that weight goes up exponentially with size. Small boats carry smaller sails (100 sq. ft.) made from thinner cloth (3.5 oz). Large racing yachts can carry sails of up to 400 sq. ft., made from heavy fabric (14 oz), totaling at 155 lbs (70 kg).

What's the difference between a headsail and a staysail? The headsail is the most forward of the staysails. A boat can only have one headsail, but it can have multiple staysails. Every staysail is attached to a forward running stay. However, not every staysail is located at the bow. A stay can run from the mizzen mast to the main mast as well.

What is a mizzenmast? A mizzenmast is the mast aft of the main mast (behind; at the stern) in a two or three-masted sailing rig. The mizzenmast is shorter than the main mast. It may carry a mainsail, for example with a ketch or lugger. It sometimes doesn't carry a mainsail, for example with a yawl, allowing it to be much shorter.

Special thanks to the following people for letting me use their quality photos: Bill Abbott - True Spinnaker with pole - CC BY-SA 2.0 lotsemann - Volvo Ocean Race Alvimedica and the Code Zero versus SCA and the J1 - CC BY-SA 2.0 Lisa Bat - US Naval Academy Trysail and Storm Jib dry fit - CC BY-SA 2.0 Mike Powell - White gaff cat - CC BY-SA 2.0 Anne Burgess - Lugger The Reaper at Scottish Traditional Boat Festival

Hi, I stumbled upon your page and couldn’t help but notice some mistakes in your description of spinnakers and gennakers. First of all, in the main photo on top of this page the small yacht is sailing a spinnaker, not a gennaker. If you look closely you can see the spinnaker pole standing on the mast, visible between the main and headsail. Further down, the discription of the picture with the two German dinghies is incorrect. They are sailing spinnakers, on a spinnaker pole. In the farthest boat, you can see a small piece of the pole. If needed I can give you the details on the difference between gennakers and spinnakers correctly?

Hi Shawn, I am living in Utrecht I have an old gulf 32 and I am sailing in merkmeer I find your articles very helpful Thanks

Thank you for helping me under stand all the sails there names and what there functions were and how to use them. I am planning to build a trimaran 30’ what would be the best sails to have I plan to be coastal sailing with it. Thank you

Hey Comrade!

Well done with your master piece blogging. Just a small feedback. “The jib gives control over the bow of the ship, making it easier to maneuver the ship. The mainsail gives control over the stern of the ship.” Can you please first tell the different part of a sail boat earlier and then talk about bow and stern later in the paragraph. A reader has no clue on the newly introduced terms. It helps to keep laser focused and not forget main concepts.

Shawn, I am currently reading How to sail around the World” by Hal Roth. Yes, I want to sail around the world. His book is truly grounded in real world experience but like a lot of very knowledgable people discussing their area of expertise, Hal uses a lot of terms that I probably should have known but didn’t, until now. I am now off to read your second article. Thank You for this very enlightening article on Sail types and their uses.

Shawn Buckles

HI CVB, that’s a cool plan. Thanks, I really love to hear that. I’m happy that it was helpful to you and I hope you are of to a great start for your new adventure!

Hi GOWTHAM, thanks for the tip, I sometimes forget I haven’t specified the new term. I’ve added it to the article.

Nice article and video; however, you’re mixing up the spinnaker and the gennaker.

A started out with a question. What distinguishes a brig from a schooner? Which in turn led to follow-up questions: I know there are Bermuda rigs and Latin rig, are there more? Which in turn led to further questions, and further, and further… This site answers them all. Wonderful work. Thank you.

Great post and video! One thing was I was surprised how little you mentioned the Ketch here and not at all in the video or chart, and your sample image is a large ship with many sails. Some may think Ketch’s are uncommon, old fashioned or only for large boats. Actually Ketch’s are quite common for cruisers and live-aboards, especially since they often result in a center cockpit layout which makes for a very nice aft stateroom inside. These are almost exclusively the boats we are looking at, so I was surprised you glossed over them.

Love the article and am finding it quite informative.

While I know it may seem obvious to 99% of your readers, I wish you had defined the terms “upwind” and “downwind.” I’m in the 1% that isn’t sure which one means “with the wind” (or in the direction the wind is blowing) and which one means “against the wind” (or opposite to the way the wind is blowing.)

paul adriaan kleimeer

like in all fields of syntax and terminology the terms are colouual meaning local and then spead as the technology spread so an history lesson gives a floral bouque its colour and in the case of notical terms span culture and history adds an detail that bring reverence to the study simply more memorable.

Hi, I have a small yacht sail which was left in my lock-up over 30 years ago I basically know nothing about sails and wondered if you could spread any light as to the make and use of said sail. Someone said it was probably originally from a Wayfayer wooden yacht but wasn’t sure. Any info would be must appreciated and indeed if would be of any use to your followers? I can provide pics but don’t see how to include them at present

kind regards

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Better Sailing

Best Small Sailboats To Sail Around The World

While there are plenty of 30-35ft blue water cruising yachts currently on the used sailboat market, many of them are tired and need new standing rigging, sails, engine, etc. That said, there are good boats out there that have been loved and looked after. Those that are well used have most likely been well maintained, too, so don’t be put off by yachts that have crossed oceans or even circumnavigated before, as their owners will have had to keep them properly seaworthy. Sailing around the world is no easy task, so these boats should be in tip-top shape. 

Some might consider 30-35ft too small for bluewater cruising or for a circumnavigation (sail around the world), but that has been disproved over the years. Bigger might be better for coastal cruising with friends, but maintenance costs rise exponentially with every extra foot. A small sailboat should be more than enough to carry a couple off on the adventures of which they dream.

Nicholson 35

Now somewhat legendary, the tough and dependable Nicholson 35 first appeared in 1971, and between then and 1985, some 228 boats were launched. Built to Lloyds’ specifications with a hand-laid solid GRP hull, she boasts a fully encapsulated lead fin keel and full-depth skeg. She has an alluring sheer with nicely balanced overhangs, giving her bows a powerful go-anywhere look, while her low-profile coachroof blends pleasingly into the decks.

Compared to today’s modern cruiser, the Nic 35’s accommodation is somewhat limited due to her relatively narrow beam and pinched ends, but what there is has been used intelligently and makes for a good working environment on long passages. The need to pass through the heads to reach the forecabin can be inconvenient with guests on board. Still, for two people cruising, these minor irritations are more than compensated for with the high quality and solidity of the fittings and joinery and the availability of safe sea berths on passage.

The main saloon is comfortable with 1.88m/6ft 2in headroom. A U-shaped dinette makes a narrow but long double in port, and the 1.92m/6ft 4in-long starboard settee a great sea berth. However, many were fitted with one or two pilot berths above the settee backs instead of lockers. The galley boasts a huge coolbox, full-size gimballed cooker, deep sink, and plenty of stowage. A crash bar, bum strap, and bulkhead pole make it a great working galley at sea. Opposite is a large aft-facing chart table with instrument mounting space on a half bulkhead separating it from the watch seat and wet locker further aft. A few boats had a forward-facing chart table and roomy quarter berth instead.

The water tanks are under the sole above the keel, not under the saloon settees as with many modern crafts. Small portlights and hatches mean natural light and ventilation might not be so plentiful as on a newer boat, but then there is less opportunity for leaks. Her cockpit is business-like – not over wide but with high coamings to support the crew securely and keep them dry. She also has a high bridge deck to stop water going below should a wave find its way into the cockpit and very deep cockpit lockers. The mainsheet track is within reach of the helmsman, just forward of the pedestal, but getting to the primaries entails climbing over the seats from behind the wheel. Her masthead sloop rig has a keelstepped mast. It is stout and uncomplicated, with twin lower shrouds and a removable inner forestay for a storm jib.

Post-1975 models had a taller mast option (51ft as opposed to 45ft), increasing the sail area considerably. No doubt most will now have the control lines led aft into the cockpit for safer shorthanded sailing. Under sail, the Nic comes into her own. She has a very positive helm, although she can be prone to weather helm if overpressed. Her performance under sail is well mannered and drama free. However, her large (145%) genoa can take some sheeting in (don’t leave the inner forestay on). Her high bows part the waves with a gentle motion, and her deep, longish keel keeps her tracking dead straight in a following sea. She won’t break any speed records, averaging around 5 knots on a long passage, but she’ll always get you there safely and in comfort.

Nicholson 35 Specs

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 30 Feet

The Sadler 34 evolved from the 32, and while the 32 was a tough, capable seaworthy sailboat cable of sailing around the world. The 34 offers much more in the way of accommodation thanks to her wider beam. Apart from being pretty, the most notable feature of the 34 is her double-skinned hull, sandwiched with thick closed-cell foam, making her unsinkable and eliminating condensation thanks to the added insulation. She came with a deep fin, shoal fin, or bilge keels, and the post-1990 models had a Stephen Jones-designed, foiled fin keel with ballast bulb that upped upwind performance. Under sail, she is responsive and vice free with a comfy motion and predictable handling. While her pinched (in modern terms) stern might limit the width of the aft cabin, it works well at sea, allowing her deep full skeg-hung rudder to keep a good bite on the water.

The Sadler 34 is quite a powerful performer and, despite having a fairly high displacement, achieves excellent passage times due to her ability to soldier on through foul weather and rough seas. Her deep and secure cockpit is perfectly dimensioned so as not to get thrown around at sea, and yet it provides enough clear seating for dining alfresco with mates. Stowage is also good, especially in the full-depth locker to port. There are harness points in the cockpit, but the mainsheet track runs across the bridge deck, which can catch out the unwary if the traveler isn’t locked in place.

On deck, the layout is practical, and the side decks uncluttered. Her foredeck is set up ideally for regular anchoring with a twin roller stemhead fitting and big anchor locker. Her accommodation is spacious enough for four. Though it was called a ‘double’ aft cabin, it only really works as a single, roomy quarterberth. She has an excellent U-shaped galley where pretty much everything can be reached with ease. The chart table opposite faces forward with its own seat, and there’s room aplenty for instruments and pilot books. Her saloon is roomy, and the table and seating are large enough for six to dine in comfort.

To port, the heads have a basin and its own door, allowing access to the forecabin. But in shower mode, the entire compartment runs athwartships, which isn’t ideal, especially as the hanging locker is in the same enclosure. There’s a decent-sized vee berth forward, which makes an ideal owner’s cabin at anchor. Stowage is reasonable, although the water tank is under the starboard settee.

Sadler 34 Specs

>>Also Read: Best Sailboats Under 100k

Not unlike the Nicholson 35 in both hull lines and reputation, the Rival 36 is a tough, solid yacht designed for passagemaking in virtually all weathers and sea conditions. The 36 slotted between the slightly cramped 34 and the larger 38 ketch, with 78 in total being launched. Possibly a squeeze on such a tight budget, but you get a lot more space in the R36 than the older R34, and there’s a good chance you could find one that’s already equipped for bluewater cruising. She was offered as a masthead sloop or with a cutter rig option. Keel choice was between a deep lead-ballasted fin, a shallower Scheel keel, or a centerboard (R36C).

Under sail, she’s predictable and easily handled, although, like her predecessors, she’s not the fastest boat around. As with most heavy displacement cruisers, she’s designed more to get you safely across oceans than to race around the cans. Wheel or tiller-steered, she has a large, deep cockpit with high coamings and excellent stowage for deck gear. Access along the wide side decks is good, assisted One of a range of solidly built and well-found cruising yachts built by Northshore Yachts, the Vancouver 32 was designed specifically for serious passagemaking.

Full hull sections and short overhangs offer a high-volume yacht with excellent load-carrying abilities. Her fully encapsulated shallow keel contains nearly 3 tonnes of lead ballast, giving her an enviable ballast ratio of nearly 45%; a keel shoe extends aft to support the rudder and protect the prop from floating debris and lines. Only available with tiller steering and transom-hung rudder, she has an easily manageable masthead cutter rig with full shrouds and twin straight spreaders.

A smart teak-capped bulwark offers extra security going forward while large scuppers ensure rapid deck drainage. The interior is surprisingly spacious and comfy. The long quarterberth and port-side straight by high teak-capped gunwales and long handrails on the coachroof, and the foredeck big enough for handling the headsails and ground tackle, which can be securely stowed in the large, deep anchor locker when sailing. Below decks, she is warm and woody and retains the trademark Rival ‘keyhole’ bulkhead separating the superbly designed and well-appointed galley and navigation areas from the saloon. The twin-leaf saloon table has fiddles and can seat six for a meal, while the settees are straight and make comfortable 1.91m-long sea berths with lee cloths. Most had a pipe cot above as well.

Maximum headroom is 1.91m/6ft 3in, and stowage is good, thanks in part to the water tank being above the keel. With no double cabin aft and only a quarterberth, the forecabin provides a comfortable vee berth with ample floor space to dress, plenty of lockers to stow your clothing, and even a dressing table. The heads/shower compartment is also roomy, and Jack and Jill doors offer access from both saloon and forecabin.

Rival 36 Specs

>>Also Read: Best Sailboat Brands

Vancouver 32

One of a range of solidly built and well-found cruising yachts built by Northshore Yachts, the Vancouver 32 was designed specifically for serious passage making. Full hull sections and short overhangs offer a high-volume yacht with excellent load-carrying abilities. Her fully encapsulated shallow keel contains nearly 3 tonnes of lead ballast, giving her an enviable ballast ratio of nearly 45%; a keel shoe extends aft to support the rudder and protect the prop from floating debris and lines. Only available with tiller steering and transom-hung rudder, she has an easily manageable masthead cutter rig with full shrouds and twin straight spreaders. A smart teak-capped bulwark offers extra security going forward while large scuppers ensure rapid deck drainage. The interior is surprisingly spacious and comfy.

The long quarterberth and port-side straight settees make excellent sea berths, leaving the U-shaped starboard saloon settee (converts into double berth) and roomy vee berth forward for sleeping at anchor. A half bulkhead separates the galley/navigation areas from the saloon, with a support pillar on either side providing excellent handgrips. It’s a bonus having the quarter berths behind the ch

art table as it allows the off-watch crew to keep one eye on the instruments and chart. However, having the heads forward can result in a lot of water dripping off your oilies when going below in wet weather.

All that lovely solid hardwood adds to her weight (nearly twice that of a modern 32ft Bavaria). Most owners are more concerned with her superb oceangoing abilities, though. She sails predictably and undramatically, her high bows and fine balance ensuring she parts the waves with little spray and no slamming – ideal for long passages where many lighter boats can throw you about.

Vancouver 32 Specs

Peter is the editor of Better Sailing. He has sailed for countless hours and has maintained his own boats and sailboats for years. After years of trial and error, he decided to start this website to share the knowledge.

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'Ghost ship' belongs to Texas man whose world sailing dreams might be dashed

A “ghost ship” that recently washed up on a Florida Panhandle beach was traced to a Texas man who’ll likely lose much of his life savings after purchasing the vessel he had hoped to sail around the world.

Francine Farrar couldn’t believe her eyes early on the evening of June 18 when a 45-foot sailboat with no one aboard eerily floated toward her family’s beach rental in Pensacola.

“I saw this tattered sailboat, it looked ghostly, just kind of coming in,” Farrar, a 46-year-old Meridian, Mississippi, homemaker, told NBC News last week.

The craft washed ashore and the strange sight of a sailboat on the sand quickly became a source of neighborhood fascination, said 35-year-old Pensacola resident Allie Garrett.

“We called it the ‘ghost ship.’ It quickly became known as the ‘ghost ship’ across Pensacola beach,” said Garrett, a meteorologist and storm chaser who took multiple photos and drone footage of the prone vessel.

Wayward boats are common during Florida hurricane season as vessels succumb to high winds and get taken off their moorings.

“We just thought this sailboat broke loose from the marina, that someone didn’t tie it down well enough,” Farrar said.

But this beached ship turned out to have a far more complicated journey to where it now sits in Pensacola.

Shortly after locals posted images of the craft on social media, those pictures gained the attention of 39-year-old Michael Barlow, whose life was saved weeks earlier during a harrowing Coast Guard rescue in the Gulf of Mexico.

Barlow immediately recognized the images and video to be The Lady Catherine III, which he purchased in Fort Pierce, Florida, in May.

“I knew it was her,” Barlow said.

The Catherine pushed off from Fort Pierce on May 21, Barlow said, with plans to dock in Rockport, Texas, where he was closing down an excavation business and selling off belongings to start a new wandering life.

“We were just going to explore the world,” Barlow said of his wife and 9-year-old son. “We’re normal people. We have normal finances, very, very basic. And this is the only way I could take my son and show him there’s a whole world out there, beyond what’s in America. It’s the only way to do this realistically until this happened.”

Barlow and a friend were headed back to Texas when high winds and massive waves that would eventually become Hurricane Alberto lashed the Catherine and rendered it inoperable.

“We went through storms one after another, after another, after another, and then that last storm just hit us and exploded my front headsails,” Barlow said in an interview from Honduras, where he’s temporarily living and teaching scuba. “We lost our headsail, we lost our motor, and we were getting turned. It was unforecast and it was devastating.”

He added: “The seas were the craziest thing I’ve ever seen. I’ve been on the water my entire life, worked on offshore fishing boats, and I’ve seen some gnarly seas. But this was the craziest thing I’ve ever seen in my life.”

A Garmin satellite communication device was one of the few electric or gas-powered tools not destroyed by crashing seawater, and Barlow was able to get word to authorities on shore that he was stuck in dangerous waters.

“We were fine right now, but we have no control of the boat and it’s getting worse,” Barlow said, recalling his message to the Coast Guard. “We starting to get turned sideways. The waves were rolling the boat. There was not much we could do.”

The Coast Guard in New Orleans said it was alerted to two boaters whose “vessel became disabled approximately 190 miles south of Panama City” on June 1.

A Coast Guard helicopter and surveillance plane found Barlow and his friend on the Catherine, officials said, but a boat-to-boat rescue was out of the question in those unstable waters.

“‘We can come get you right now, but you have to leave the vessel,’” said Barlow, recalling the choice Coast Guard rescuers gave him. “‘You’re definitely rolling the dice on your life if you stay.’ It was just a bad situation, and it was getting progressively worse.”

Barlow picked a rescue over the boat he purchased for $80,000.

“The aircrews arrived on scene, the helicopter aircrew hoisted the two persons aboard and transported them to Panama City Airport in Panama City, Florida,” a Coast Guard statement said.

Barlow said he was reasonably confident the Catherine would show up again, and it did, 17 days later and nearly 200 miles away.

“We did our best to leave her in the best condition to make it through the storm,” Barlow said. “We lashed everything down and we hoped she could ride it out.”

Now, the sailor has nothing but bad choices ahead of him.

He could pay $20,000 to have the Catherine taken to dry dock for repairs that could very well total more than its pre-Alberto value.

Or he could shell out about $28,000 to simply have the vessel taken away and demolished, which would at least stop the financial hemorrhage .

“If we’re talking about business numbers, it’d make more sense to scrap the boat,” Barlow said. “That’s just the stone-cold truth.”

He’s now in talks with state and local officials in hopes of finding a solution in coming weeks.

As the owner of a “derelict vessel,” Barlow has to move it away or possibly face a third-degree felony, punishable by a fine of up to $5,000 and even prison time, officials said.

“Yes, our officers have been in contact with Mr. Barlow,” Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokesperson Faith Fawn said in statement. “He has 30 days from the date the uniform boating citation was issued to bring his vessel into compliance.”

Barlow said he’s not giving up on his world-sailing dreams even if this Catherine misadventure costs him so much of his life savings.

“I said I can make another 80,000 bucks and we can carry on with life and try again or we can sit around here and try to be tough guys and really lose it all,” Barlow said of his final moments on the water aboard the Catherine.

“This definitely did not shake my resolve as far as sailing goes. I love the ocean. I respect the ocean. It’s relentless and beautiful at the same time.”

David K. Li is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Payton May is an intern with NBC News' Social Newsgathering team.

Rima Abdelkader is a senior reporter for Social Newsgathering at NBC News in New York.

StarTribune

The story of the st. croix river's distinctive sailboat.

There's no other boat quite like the Dar-Ja sailing the St. Croix River, gliding along the shoreline, its twin masts outfitted with white triangles of sail billowing across the bow like a New England schooner.

The sailboat that Jack Lown built in a back yard in Iowa was supposed to take him on an around-the-world voyage with three friends. That was before World War II broke out, and two of Lown's buddies died fighting overseas. What happened next became Lown's true sailing adventure, one that never left the Midwest, touched salt water or charted a course across an ocean.

Sailing into its eighth decade, the wooden sailboat first launched in 1951 has become an iconic St. Croix River vessel, still piloted by the same family that grew up on it and still drawing attention from sailors and non-boaters alike.

"I remember Mom and Dad dancing on the deck," said Mary Ann Bergquist, one of the daughters of Jack and Darlene Lown. Her parents floated up the Mississippi River from Waterloo, Iowa, a few years after they married in 1948, back when the boat named for them had a motor but no masts or sails.

The Lowns had seven children, danced twice a week at Twin Cities-area ballrooms and spent the sailing season aboard Dar-Ja when Jack took a long break each summer from teaching high school industrial arts.

The boat that was to conquer the globe instead found a home in Stillwater for several years and then, after Lown got tired of waiting for the Stillwater Lift Bridge to open, Hudson, Wis., in 1954. Over more than 70 years, the boat has been launched countless times to sail north to Stillwater or as far south as Lake Pepin.

Jack died in 1987 and Darlene in 2012. Today their surviving children sail Dar-Ja, especially their son John Lown, who said he takes it out three to four times a week. The boat has sailed so many times, and with so many people, that John said it's not uncommon for him to be at a store somewhere and have someone approach him with their Dar-Ja story.

John said he was sailing one day when a Zodiac zipped up behind him. It was Stan Hubbard, the owner of KSTP, delivering pictures he had of Dar-Ja under sail.

Childhood dream

A young Jack Lown first imagined sailing around the world after reading "Around the World Single-Handed" by Harry Pidgeon. An uncle and his father had built dozens of boats, and by the time Jack Lown was 15, he had built his own motorized riverboat. It wasn't until his early 20s as he studied to become a teacher that he began work on the boat that would become the Dar-Ja.

He first had his plans checked by a naval architect in Chicago, then built a 4-foot model. The full-size version, of oak and spruce and fir, is 12 feet across and weighs some 28,000 pounds when fully loaded with fuel and water. Its middle deck section above the cabin makes a good dance floor.

After the boat was built, Lown got a permit to haul it the 90 miles to Dubuque, Iowa, and the Mississippi River, first launching it in 1951.

Jack Lown never officially chartered the boat as a business, but friends soon learned that he would go out most weekends with a full crew. Lown told a newspaper in the 1970s that he was taking some 2,000 people a year out on the St. Croix River. His family took several trips each summer to Lake Pepin; the boat can sleep 12 people and has a full kitchen and bathroom.

Son John said growing up with the Dar-Ja meant sailboat construction was ongoing. The wooden ship has seen its hull replaced and its main mast and engine. A second mast built in 1978 was partly completed at the former Frank B. Kellogg High School in Little Canada, where Jack was teaching industrial arts.

It was finished at the family home in northeast Minneapolis, then delivered by car and specialized trailer to the St. Croix River. To install the new mast, Jack's son Curtis Lown stood on the Interstate 94 bridge with a block and tackle to raise the mast up from the deck of the Dar-Ja, which was floating below.

"Can you imagine that now?" Curtis said.

The boat has had close calls — Curtis remembers a time when he took it out for his birthday and the Dar-Ja was hit with a massive straight-line wind. The boat leaned over, the cockpit filled with water, and someone called the sheriff for help.

"It was just a freak deal," said Curtis.

On a night in 1958, a motorboat driver slammed into the ship's prow at full speed, killing the driver, a 58-year-old man from St. Paul.

River sailing

Sailing on the river means the Lowns know the bridges over the St. Croix and whether the Dar-Ja and its 56-foot-tall mast can pass underneath.

Even sailing under the Interstate 94 bridge can feel like sailboat limbo with river levels at moderate flood stage this past week.

The I-94 bridge is fixed, but others have a bridge operator to lift or swing open a section.

It was at the Prescott, Wis., bridge that Mary Ann used to jump off the boat as a child and run up to the bridge operator's house. "I knew where the bridge man lived," she said, "and I would run up to his house and say, 'You have to open the bridge!'"

Matt McKinney is a reporter on the Star Tribune's state team. In 15 years at the Star Tribune, he has covered business, agriculture and crime. 

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'Ghost Ship' Washes Ashore on Florida Beach One Week After It Was Abandoned At Sea amid Storms

Michael Barlow's dreams of exploring the world have hit a major snag after he was forced to abandon his sailboat

Abigail Adams is a Human Interest Writer and Reporter for PEOPLE. She has been working in journalism for seven years.

A so-called “ghost ship” that washed ashore in Florida has been traced to one man who dreamed of sailing around the world.

The mysterious sailboat was found on June 18 on the shore of a Pensacola beach, according to NBC News and CBS affiliate WKMG-TV .

Michael Barlow told ABC affiliate WEAR-TV that he and a friend were attempting to travel 884 miles from Fort Pierce, Florida, to Texas the week prior when they ran into inclement weather and sought rescue.

Barlow said he wanted to “explore the world” on the boat, called The Lady Catherine III , alongside his wife and 9-year-old son, per NBC News. Now, those dreams are dashed.

“This is the only way I could take my son and show him there’s a whole world out there, beyond what’s in America,” Barlow explained. “It’s the only way to do this realistically until this happened.”

Barlow and his friend left Fort Pierce on The Lady Catherine III on May 21, according to NBC News.

After battling storms for three days, Barlow told WEAR-TV he finally made contact with the U.S. Coast Guard using his Garmin satellite device’s SOS system. He believes the device may have saved their lives.

However, Barlow said authorities told him they were three hours away and that he would ultimately have to abandon the vessel. Barlow agreed, according to WEAR-TV.

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Once Barlow and his friend connected with the Coast Guard, rescue swimmer Richard Hoefle leaped from a helicopter and swam to the duo.

“It was like a movie,” Barlow recalled. “Bro jumped in out of a helicopter in these mad big seas and swam over to us with nothing but snorkel gear on.”

One week later, The Lady Catherine III washed ashore. Francine Farrar was one of the first people to spot the vessel and found Barlow on social media, according to WEAR-TV.

"I've been talking to him all day trying to help him out," Farrar said. "People have been stealing stuff off the boat."

Barlow now has two options, according to NBC News. He can either pay $20,000 to have the sailboat taken to dry dock for repairs, or pay $28,000 to have the vessel moved and demolished.

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“If we’re talking about business numbers, it’d make more sense to scrap the boat,” Barlow explained. “That’s just the stone-cold truth.”

Barlow is reportedly now working with officials from Florida’s Fish and Wildlife Department to determine next steps. He also launched a GoFundMe campaign to help recover the vessel.

Fish and Wildlife officials said Barlow has 30 days, starting from the day he was issued a citation for the boating incident, to move the vessel, according to NBC News.

Barlow said this incident “definitely did not shake my resolve as far as sailing goes,” and plans to continue to pursue his dream of sailing around the world.

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My 7 Favorite Cruises In And Around Europe

W hat I love most about cruising around Europe is the huge choice in types of cruises you can go on. Because Europe includes hot and sunny destinations like Spain and Italy, and cold and interesting places like Scandinavia and Scotland, you can take a very different cruise each time around Europe. You can pull up in pretty ports in Greece and swim from the boat and you can sail around the shores of Scotland and take a cold water plunge — if you’re brave enough. 

The coastlines of Europe are vastly different to one another and the types of cruises you can take are too. River cruises, yachts, island cruises, and large fun-packed cruise lines all sail around these shores. Plus, you can start your cruise in Europe and sail off beyond the continent, and then return after an adventure. 

Here are my 7 favorite cruises in and around Europe.

1. Starclippers

Rome round trip .

This seven-night cruise begins and ends in Rome, visiting Lipari, Sicily, Amalfi, Sorrento, and Ponza. What I love about the Starclipper cruises is they are informal and casual — you dine with other guests or by yourself, you don’t have a set table for meals, and you can wear what you like as there’s no dress code. But at the same time, the interior of the ship and the cabins are sophisticated and semi luxurious, so it feels casual and chic all in one go. 

This particular cruise is on the Starflyer , which has two pools and a sun deck. There’s no entertainment on board, though there might be some games in the evening, but children are welcome over the age of 6 months. I love these small-yacht ships that can get you into ports the larger cruise ships can’t, and this one is a beautiful ship with an atmosphere of relaxation and easygoingness. You can even join with the crew and help to sail the ship if you like.

2. French Waterways

Hotel barge prospérité: côte d’or.

If you like things really intimate, you can book a six- or eight-person cruise with French Waterways and have the barge to yourselves. This one is a canal cruise in France, but they also offer river cruises. The rooms on the barge are hotel standard and there’s a sun deck and a hot tub on board. The cruise ambles along the canals in the Côte d’Or, stopping off for a walking tour in Dijon, shopping and markets, and wine tasting at a vineyard. 

This is a really relaxing way to cruise in France with family or friends, but you can’t book onto this cruise as a single person or a couple. This is a chartered barge that is priced for the maximum number of people it sleeps — six or eight. If you’re experienced, you can also choose to pilot the boat yourself.

3. G Adventures

Sailing from split to dubrovnik.

Sailing along the Dalmatian Coast is a unique experience and visiting Croatia is a trip full of historical sites and exploration. The yachts you’ll travel on with G Adventures give you a truly small-boat experience. If you want a luxurious cabin and lush interiors, this isn’t for you, but if you want a sense of adventure and an authentic sailing experience, this is definitely it. 

The yacht accommodates a maximum of eight people, but you don’t have to be a part of the group, you can book onto this as a single person or couple. Note: If you book a solo trip, you will be sharing your cabin with someone else. It’s also worth noting that you’ll need a medium level of physical fitness to take part in the activities on this tour, which can include kayaking and hiking. 

This is a self-catering trip, and while there’s plenty of opportunities to eat at the destinations, there aren’t any meals offered on board. This also means that when you eat your own food on the ship and/or cook for yourself in the kitchen, you are expected to tidy up after.

4. Hebridean Adventures

Hebridean island odyssey.

Sailing on board the MV Hjalmar Bjørge with the Northern Light Cruising Company, Hebridean Adventures brings you a trip like no other around the Hebrides Islands in Scotland. This nine-night cruise stops at Mull, Coll & Tiree, the Small Isles, and the Isle of Skye. Most people who take this cruise are wildlife enthusiasts and are sailing with the hope of spotting dolphins, puffins, eagles, and more. But even if you only have a passing interest in wildlife, this is a stunning way to get a bit closer to it. 

Facilities are limited on board and the cabins are no-frills, with some only including bunk beds. You do have to share bathroom facilities, which is a challenge for some people, but guests are all aware of this and are very considerate. The onboard chef is a real plus on this cruise and they cater for any dietary requirements, cooking all meals fresh every day. The boat might be basic, but the scenery is breathtaking and it’s a unique type of cruise.

5. Celebrity Cruises

Egypt & israel.

Beginning in Athens, Greece, this 10-night cruise with Celebrity Cruises will stop off at Israel and Egypt before returning to Athens. There are 3 days at sea on this cruise, and on board the Celebrity Infinity , there’s a casino, an art gallery, a sun deck, indoor and outdoor pool areas, a spa, tennis, nightlife, and restaurants and bars. 

This is a large cruise ship experience with capacity for 2,170 people. Rooms are hotel standard, some with verandas, and the experience of being on the ship is as much a part of the trip as exploring the stop-off destinations. The cruise gives you the perfect mix between Europe and a little further afield. For anyone who hasn’t strayed beyond Europe before, it’s a great way to get a taste of Egypt and Israel.

6. Variety Cruises

Italy & malta.

Beginning in Naples and sailing along the coast of Italy and around its islands, this small boat intimate cruise with Variety Cruises ends on the 8th day in Malta. At first, I thought it was unusual to end in a totally different place than where the cruise began, but actually, I loved the chance to get to know somewhere separate from the starting point. 

The ship has capacity for 44 people and is a laid-back experience with just a sundeck, informal restaurant, bar, and swim platform. Most of your time is spent off the boat, exploring parts of Italy tourists don’t usually visit, and that’s the real draw with these small-boat cruises. These are ports large cruise ships can’t enter, so you feel like you’re on a voyage of discovery. Rooms are comfortable and pleasantly decorated and designed, but you won’t be spending much time in them. The Italian islands and Malta are beautiful places to explore.

7. Princess Cruises

Grand 11-day mediterranean.

This big cruise ship experience with Princess Cruises begins in Rome and travels to Greece, Turkey, Sicily, and Mallorca, ending in Barcelona, Spain. Aboard the Sun Princess ship, it’s all about fun on a large scale, with climbing walls, swimming pools, a spa, bars, cafés, restaurants, evening entertainment, and kids clubs. 

It is aimed at families and there’s lots for all ages to do, but it’s also a great cruise to take as a couple or by yourself. There’s something going on all the time, but you can still find some quiet time on the sun deck. There’s 3 days at sea on this 11-day cruise and you’ll certainly never get bored. I love the stop-offs and visits to four different countries, with some really diverse excursions offered at every stop.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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Lisa Blair: 'I only have to think about eat, sleep, sail'

Self-confidence is the most important asset when you're alone on treacherous seas, says Australian solo sailor Lisa Blair.

When people say to her "I don't think I could do that', Blair replies that they probably could - with time and dedication.

"The limiting factor is your mindset and your ability to believe in yourself," she tells Susie Ferguson.

Photo: Andrea Francolini

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In May 2022, Lisa Blair became the fastest person in the world to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica. Her journey is captured in the documentary Ice Maiden , currently screening in the Doc Edge Festival.

While sailing around the Southern Ocean for three months on her yacht Climate Action Now, Blair tried to film as much as she could with the hope of eventually making a documentary.

Later, for Ice Maiden , she reenacted bits of the story she was "too busy trying to survive to record" on some winter nights at a Sydney marina.

"I'm crawling around the deck of the boat just getting hammered by these buckets of water [thrown by volunteers] and the rain machines are going. We had big fans to simulate the wind gusting through… It was rather interesting and just as painful as the actual thing."

Blair says her record-breaking circumnavigation of Antarctica took about three-and-a-half years of planning and preparation - much of it mental.

"I needed to work out whether I would go crazy. How would I cope being on my own solo? I'm a very chatty, social person. I do enjoy my own space, but I am quite social as well. And so how would I physically and mentally cope with that?

"I would spend most of my waking hours imagining scenarios... What would happen if the mast snapped? What would happen if I lost the rudder? What would happen if I lost the keel? What would happen if I broke my leg?"

When Blair reached Cape Horn - "technically the most dangerous place on earth to sail around" - the winds were so strong she sometimes struggled to breathe while on deck.

"The wind has torn the tops of the waves off and it's sheeting so much water sideways that you can't actually breathe the oxygen out of the air. You have to cup your mouth and create a windshield around your mouth to be able to get oxygen into your body."

On day 72, thousands of miles from land, Blair woke to a loud bang and found her mast had snapped in the night. What followed she describes as "the largest survival scenario that I've ever encountered".

"All I could see was my mast just flexing and bending like a hula girl shaking her hips... I'd broken a piece of rigging wire and within a few minutes, the mast came crashing down."

The only way to survive that night was to keep the boat floating, Blair says, which she managed to do with a screwdriver in her numb hands, a head torch lighting up just one metre in front of her and waves roaring.

Even though solo sailing is physically tough - "You're uncomfortable a lot of the time and you're pushing yourself a lot of the time" - Blair loves the simplicity of being alone at sea.

"It's wild because I grew up on land. I grew up in the bush, I was a bush baby. But when I go to sea, it's like all the chains, all the responsibilities, all the things we have to worry about in our day-to-day life just go away. I only have to think about eat, sleep, sail. What's the wind doing? Rinse, repeat."

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