Two British sailors are celebrating a monumental achievement in maritime history after becoming part of the first all-female crew to sail around the world without stopping. Dee Caffari, aged 53, and Deborah Blair, 23, were key members of an eight-woman team that made history upon their arrival in Brest harbour, France, following an epic 57 days, 21 hours, and 20 minutes at sea.
A Historic Voyage Against the Odds
This remarkable crew was the first to even attempt this formidable feat in 26 years, completing it entirely without any external assistance. Ms Caffari shared her reflections with the Telegraph, stating, 'I think there are very few firsts left in the world, so to achieve one is really special, and I think it's going to take a little time to process it.'
The Journey Begins
The world record bid commenced on November 28 near Ushant, off the coast of Brittany, which served as the starting point for the prestigious around-the-world Jules World Trophy. The team circumnavigated the globe aboard a 31.5-metre trimaran, equipped with satellite internet to maintain communication.
Their route took them south down the Atlantic Ocean, skirting the coast of Portugal before navigating between West Africa and South America. They then looped around the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, travelling eastwards through the challenging southern Ocean and Pacific Ocean, and circling Antarctica.
Navigating Challenges and Celebrating Success
The crew rounded the south of Cape Horn at the tip of South America before heading back north through the Atlantic Ocean to their starting point. Throughout the entire voyage, they made no stops to replenish supplies, relying solely on the food and drink stored on board the trimaran.
Living conditions were rudimentary, with bunk-style hammocks and a modest kitchen. The sailors faced gale-force winds on their vessel, but the team, skippered by Alexia Barrier and featuring two Olympic medallists, proved more than capable of handling the challenges.
Cheering crowds lined the docks at Brest for their arrival on Monday, marking the first time the crew had set foot on dry land in two months. Ms Caffari added, 'I think the highlight is to have the opportunity in the first place, so crossing the start line, and then reaching our second objective which was to cross the finish line. We've had our challenges along the way and we've overcome them all, and that makes me feel very proud.'
An Inspirational Team Effort
The history-making team of sailors also included Spanish 2012 Olympic champion Tamara Echegoyen, Dutch 2008 Olympic silver medallist Annemieke Bes, American-Italian Molly LaPointe, New Zealander Rebecca Gmuer-Hornell, and Australian Stacey Jackson.
The Royal Yachting Association congratulated the British sailors, stating, 'Congratulations to British sailors Dee Caffari and Deborah Blair on inspiring future generations, and writing their names in the history books.'
Setting a New Precedent
Not a single all-female team has attempted this voyage in the 21st Century, with the last attempt in 1999 ending with an abandoned ship off the coast of New Zealand. This impressive feat follows closely on the heels of a crew led by French sailor Thomas Coville, who completed the fastest ever journey around the world on Sunday in just 40 days, 10 hours, and 45 minutes.
The successful completion of this non-stop circumnavigation by an all-female crew marks a significant milestone in sailing history, demonstrating exceptional skill, endurance, and teamwork in one of the most demanding maritime challenges.
