Imagine challenging the world – not in a sprint, but in the longest, most daring marathon of all: circumnavigating the globe by sailboat, non-stop, without assistance, and faster than anyone ever has before. That’s the Trophée Jules Verne, a race inspired by the spirit of adventure in Jules Verne’s classic novel ‘Around the World in 80 Days’.

The Trophée Jules Verne isn’t a traditional race – it’s a challenge. Competitors choose their own departure window, set off from a defined line in the English Channel between the Créac’h Lighthouse (off Ushant) and Lizard Point (Cornwall), and attempt to sail around the world as fast as possible. The course takes them eastward, leaving the Capes of Good Hope, Leeuwin and Horn to port, before returning to the finish where they started.

This race is about pure speed and endurance, pushing both sailors and boats to their limits. It’s open to virtually any sailboat and crew size, provided the vessel can make it around the world without outside assistance.

A huge shout out goes to our now famous Opua Cruising Club member Rebeca Gmuer-Hornell who is now the fastest Kiwi to sail around the world!

This was accomplished on a 100ft trimaran as part of an 8 female crew competing in the Jules Verne Trophy. The crew went non-stop around the world in 57 days… an absolutely awesome achievement!

Well done Becs, we’re so proud of you and can’t wait for you to come home and tell us all about it!