WHAT IT IS Following in the footsteps of Ferdinand Magellan
WHY YOU WON’T DO IT Only the best mariners armed with plenty of time and money even stand a chance
Circumnavigating the globe has always been the ultimate sailing challenge, and since Ferdinand Magellan proved it was possible in the 16th century, many others have followed in his wake. These days it remains a true test, but it’s one that can be conquered if you approach it the right way.
Your first job is to decide exactly why you want to sail around the world. Do you want to get round as quickly as possible, perhaps even breaking a record, or do you want to go at a more leisurely place, taking in some of the wondrous sights and experiences on offer en route? Your decision will affect how long you expect to be away, what sort of boat you choose, what supplies to take and which skills to brush up on, as well as who you will have as crew.
In general (though rules vary if you’re sailing competitively), a circumnavigation should see you pass through every line of longitude, cover a distance at least equal to the world’s circumference (some 40,075 kilometres or 24,901 miles), and pass a pair of antipodal points (that is to say, points directly opposite each other on the globe). A racing route usually loops around the perilous tips of South America and Southern Africa, testing even the best sailors to their limits. So let’s assume you are happy to take a more leisurely route, avoiding these dangerous corners and passing through the shortcuts of the Panama and Suez Canals instead.
Before even considering a trip, you should be an experienced sailor, ideally with at least two years under your belt. Gather as much expert advice as you can in making your preparations. Read books, attend sailing fairs and speak to those who have already done it and survived to tell the tale.
Plan the route in minute detail: research prevailing wind patterns, ocean currents, average temperatures and other climate conditions, and factor in considerations including expenses (for one thing, you’ll be charged for access to both canals), suitable stopovers for repairs and supplies, and any particular tourist spots you would like to visit!
Avoid anything that will take you into geopolitically dangerous environments and beware of emerging risks – for instance, the coast of Somalia has long been tormented by violent acts of piracy so aim to steer clear. In addition, make sure that your passport is up to date, that you have visas for any countries that require them, and that you have a sound understanding of maritime law.
Choose your vessel carefully. A wooden boat might seem romantic, but it is likely to provide you with many more practical problems than one made from metal or fibreglass, and will also be more expensive to insure as a result. For two people, a 12-metre (40-ft) boat is ideal – big enough to offer comfort but small enough for one person to sail if the other is incapacitated.
Learn all that you can about how the boat works so that you are capable of making running repairs. Make sure it is installed with GPS and communication systems, an autopilot, battery chargers and facilities to purify water. While there is much technology to assist you in navigation, make sure that you can confidently read a nautical chart and work out your position from the stars alone. These are old but timeless skills, and in certain circumstances they might just save your life.
Give yourself at least a year of sailing to finish the trip. This means that you’ll need to get your finances in good order before you go. Make sure you have comprehensive health and travel insurance policies too. File your travel plans with friends or family – they will be invaluable in the event of an emergency.
You’ll need to keep focused for the duration of the trip – no lounging about on deck! Check daily that the boat remains in good condition and that all on-board systems are working as they should do. If something goes amiss, dock for running repairs as soon as you can. Finally, pack some good books or films to keep you entertained during long days and nights on the sea. And don’t forget to turn off the gas and cancel the milk before you leave.