Sailing Around the World
Sailing Around the World: A Dream Voyage of Freedom and Discovery
There’s something magical about setting sail into the open sea, with nothing but the horizon stretching endlessly before you. Sailing around the world is the ultimate adventure—a journey that combines exploration, self-reliance, and the pure joy of discovering new places from the deck of your own vessel.
Whether you’re dreaming of island-hopping across the Caribbean, navigating the Indian Ocean, or braving the Southern Ocean’s wild waters, this guide will help you understand what it takes to embark on a global sailing adventure.
Why Sail Around the World?
Ultimate Freedom – Travel without borders, at your own pace.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration – Reach untouched islands and remote coastlines.
Self-Sufficiency & Sustainability – Live off solar power, wind energy, and fresh catch from the sea.
Unparalleled Adventure – Face the elements, learn new skills, and embrace the thrill of the unknown.
Sailing is not just about travel; it’s about embracing a completely different lifestyle, where time slows down and nature dictates your journey.
With all that fear, it’s much easier to stay at home in our comfort
zones than to break out and travel.
Best Routes for Sailing Around the World
While every sailing voyage is unique, most global sailors follow well-established routes based on trade winds, currents, and safety. Here are some of the most iconic paths:
1. The Classic Circumnavigation Route (Trade Winds Route)
Route: Europe → Canary Islands → Caribbean → Panama Canal → Pacific Islands → Australia → Indian Ocean → South Africa → Brazil → Europe
Best For: Smooth sailing, island-hopping, and reliable trade winds.
Duration: 12-24 months
This is the most common route taken by world sailors, as it follows the trade winds, ensuring a relatively smooth and predictable journey.
2. The Pacific Dream Route
Route: West Coast USA → Mexico → French Polynesia → Fiji → Indonesia → Thailand
Best For: Exploring exotic islands and warm tropical waters.
Duration: 8-18 months
A dream route for those who want to sail through paradise, experiencing the turquoise lagoons of the South Pacific.
3. The Northern Route (Arctic Challenge)
Route: Europe → Greenland → Canada → Alaska → Russia → Japan → Pacific Islands
Best For: Extreme adventurers and those wanting to explore the Arctic.
Duration: 2+ years
This route is not for the faint-hearted, as it involves icy waters, unpredictable storms, and harsh conditions. However, it also offers breathtaking landscapes and untouched wilderness.
Learn more in related article: Staying with a local family on Bali
“The Professional Hobo”
“Never Ending Footsteps”
Essential Preparations for a World Sailing Trip
Sailing around the world is not just about hopping on a boat and setting off. It requires careful planning, the right equipment, and a strong mindset.
1. Choosing the Right Boat
A reliable, ocean-worthy boat is crucial for a safe and comfortable journey.
Popular choices:
• Monohulls (e.g., Beneteau, Jeanneau, Hallberg-Rassy) – Sturdy and great for rough waters.
• Catamarans (e.g., Lagoon, Leopard, Fountaine Pajot) – More space, stable, and faster in good conditions.
2. Navigation & Weather Planning
Tools Needed:
• GPS navigation systems & marine charts
• Satellite communication for weather updates
• Knowledge of wind patterns, ocean currents, and storm seasons
3. Budgeting for the Journey
Estimated Costs:
• Boat purchase & maintenance: $50,000 – $500,000
• Food & supplies: $500 – $2,000 per month
• Docking fees & permits: $100 – $500 per stop
• Fuel & spare parts: $2,000 – $5,000 annually
4. Safety & Survival Gear
Must-Haves:
• Life raft & emergency beacons
• First-aid kit & medical supplies
• Backup satellite phone & distress signals
5. Skills You Need
Before setting sail, ensure you have basic seamanship skills, including:
Navigation & chart reading
Basic engine repair & maintenance
Weather interpretation
Emergency & survival tactics
Best Places to Visit on a World Sailing Trip
French Polynesia – Crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and untouched islands.
The Maldives – A paradise for divers and nature lovers.
Australia’s Great Barrier Reef – One of the world’s best diving spots.
South Africa – Combine sailing with a safari adventure.
Caribbean Islands – Explore pirate history and pristine beaches.
Challenges of Sailing Around the World
While sailing the globe is a dream for many, it also comes with challenges:
Rough Weather & Storms – The ocean can be unpredictable.
Financial Management – Keeping costs under control while sailing full-time.
Maintenance & Repairs – Boats require constant upkeep, even in remote locations.
Visas & Paperwork – Different countries have different clearance rules for sailors.
Final Thoughts: Is Sailing the World for You?
Sailing around the world is one of the most rewarding travel experiences, but it requires courage, preparation, and adaptability. Whether you’re planning a solo expedition, a couple’s adventure, or a family voyage, the journey will test you—but it will also give you the ultimate sense of freedom.
If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping the ordinary and exploring the world by sea, maybe it’s time to start planning your sailing adventure of a lifetime!
Would you sail around the world? Let us know in the comments!
