How Long does it Take to Sail Around the World
People have been dreaming to sail around the world for years now, maybe since Joules Verne described it in his remarkable adventure book. While the book suggests it takes 80 days to travel around the world, how long would it take now to sail across Earth?
The answer to this question really depends on a few factors. Will you be taking the trip non-stop or give yourself a break in a few locations? Will you hop on a fast multihull or enjoy a smooth sail with your family on a slower vessel?
A trip around the world in a boat is called circumnavigation. Generally, it takes from 3 to 10 years to complete. The fastest circumnavigation however took 40 days and it was carried out on a trimaran. This is also the trip that has won the world record.
If you plan to travel without stopping anywhere unless it is to stock up on provisions, the trip could very well take 80 days. This type of trip is most appropriate in a race format. It does not allow you to enjoy any views or stop for more than a couple of hours for emergencies.
If you plan to have a quick trip with a few stops so you can recharge and enjoy the views of the local towns where you dock, you might make it across the world in a couple of years. During this trip, you have time to stop for a couple of days in different ports and enjoy some local cuisine.
You might however choose to enjoy your sail and your stops more extensively and spread your trip out and turn it into a really intense experience. In this case, you might sail around the world for 3 to 10 years. This type of trip allows you to explore different cultures, live in various countries for a month or so, and learn about the traditions of the world.
So, which one would you go for? It really depends on the boat you have and how fast the hull can go. It also depends on the amount of money you have allocated for the trip, the time of year you start, and how the weather is going to be. Any hurricanes or storms can delay you and change the nature of your circumnavigation.
Take these factors into account before starting your journey and make sure to have the appropriate help during your sail. Keep TheBoatApp at hand to keep track of your boat maintenance, log information, save documents, pictures, get alerts, and more.