If you're curious about the fastest sailboat around the world, IDEC Sport holds the record for circumnavigation, completing the journey in just 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds. Meanwhile, Vestas Sailrocket 2 set a stunning speed record of 65.5 knots. The evolution of sailing speeds has come a long way since Tim Colman's 26.3 knots in 1972. Events like the Vendée Globe and the Ocean Race continue to push boundaries in sailing. As new teams gear up to break existing records, you won't want to miss what comes next in this thrilling adventure.
Key Takeaways
- IDEC Sport holds the fastest circumnavigation record at 40 days, 23 hours, and 30 minutes.
- The Vendée Globe is a prestigious solo race that showcases exceptional sailing talent.
- Vestas Sailrocket 2 achieved the outright speed record at 65.5 knots in 2012.
- Comanche set the crewed monohull Transatlantic Record in 2016, completing the journey in 5 days, 14 hours, and 21 minutes.
Current Record Holders
When it comes to the fastest sailboats around the world, several remarkable vessels currently hold prestigious records that showcase their incredible speed and endurance.
IDEC Sport stands out as the current record holder for the fastest circumnavigation, completing the Jules Verne Trophy in just 40 days, 23 hours, 30 minutes, and 30 seconds.
Another notable contender is Banque Populaire V, which has set multiple impressive records, including the Transatlantic Record, finishing in 3 days, 15 hours, and 25 minutes.
For sheer speed, the Vestas Sailrocket 2 holds the Outright Record at an astounding peak speed of 65.5 knots, while also capturing the Nautical Mile Record at 55.3 knots.
These record holders represent the pinnacle of sailing achievement, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on water.
Additionally, Comanche made waves by setting a crewed monohull Transatlantic Record in 2016, crossing in 5 days, 14 hours, 21 minutes, and 25 seconds.
Each of these vessels exemplifies the spirit of competition and innovation in the world of sailing, inspiring future generations to chase their own speed records.
Speed Record Progression

The journey of speed records in sailing reveals a remarkable evolution, showcasing how advancements in technology and design have propelled sailors to achieve faster times and set new benchmarks.
From Tim Colman's first recorded speed of 26.3 knots in 1972, significant improvements quickly followed. Pascal Maka raised the bar to 38.9 knots in 1986, while kitesurfers like Robert Douglas challenged the norm with a remarkable 49.8 knots in 2008.
The Vestas Sailrocket 2 took the outright record to new heights, achieving an astonishing 65.5 knots in 2012. In the domain of nautical miles, Bjrn Dunkerbeck set the first record at 34 knots in 2003, later improving to 41.1 knots. The Vestas Sailrocket 2 then claimed the current record of 55.3 knots in 2010.
Moreover, the 24-Hour Record saw a leap from 18.2 knots in 1854 to an impressive 37.8 knots, achieved by Banque Populaire V in 2009.
These milestones illustrate a clear trajectory of progress in sailing records, highlighting how innovations in sailing vessels have continually pushed the limits of what's possible.
Notable Sailing Events

Notable sailing events like the Vendée Globe and the Ocean Race showcase the incredible challenges and achievements of sailors as they navigate the world's oceans.
The Vendée Globe is a prestigious non-stop solo around the world race that utilizes the IMOCA 60 Class, pushing participants to their limits against extreme conditions. Meanwhile, the Ocean Race, known for its multiple legs and fully crewed teams, has been thrilling spectators since 1973.
Another remarkable event is the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, designed for amateur sailors. It allows everyday adventurers to experience ocean racing aboard Clipper 70 Class yachts, making it accessible without prior sailing experience.
If you prefer a retro challenge, consider the Golden Globe Race, which requires sailors to rely solely on traditional navigation methods, eschewing modern technology.
These events not only test the limits of human endurance but also set various sailing records. The history of the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race, the first round-the-world yacht race, illustrates this further, with nearly 200 participants, though fewer than 100 completed the journey.
Each event stands as a demonstration of the spirit of adventure on the high seas.
Future Record Attempts

As the spirit of adventure continues to thrive in sailing, future record attempts are set to push the boundaries of speed and endurance on the open seas. Teams are determined to break the existing records, particularly IDEC Sport's long-standing Jules Verne Trophy record. The competition is fierce, with several notable vessels gearing up for their next challenges.
You can expect:
- Innovative designs like Moonshot #1 and SP80, aiming to shatter the 80-knot barrier in speed sailing.
- Teams such as Spindrift 2 and Sodebo Ultim 3, who've faced their own challenges but remain persistent.
- Gitana 17, overcoming technical difficulties, as they experienced a foil break in their 2020 attempt.
The quest for a new record is never straightforward, but the relentless drive of sailors guarantees that the world of sailing continues to evolve. With each attempt, new possibilities arise, and the allure of becoming a record holder remains ever enticing.
Female Achievements in Sailing

How have women transformed the sailing landscape with their remarkable achievements and records?
Female achievements in sailing have dramatically reshaped the nautical world, showcasing women's contributions to the sport and inspiring future generations. In 1978, Naomi James became the first woman to complete a solo circumnavigation in just 272 days, while Krystyna Chojnowska-Liskiewicz set a record for her solo journey that lasted 401 days.
Fast forward to recent years, and you see the achievements of ten women who've completed the Vendée Globe, a grueling non-stop solo race around the world, with two breaking outright records. Remarkably, Clarisse Cremer made headlines in 2021 as the first woman to finish a solo monohull circumnavigation in under 100 days, achieving it in 87 days, 2 hours, and 33 minutes.
These milestones not only highlight the growth of monohull records but also emphasize women's increasing presence in competitive sailing. As more female sailors take to the seas, they foster a more inclusive sailing community, encouraging others to embrace their nautical dreams and pursue excellence on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Fastest Speed Recorded Sailboat?
You'll find that the fastest speed recorded for a sailboat is 65.5 knots, achieved by Vestas Sailrocket 2 on November 24, 2012. This remarkable feat showcases the incredible advancements in sailing technology over the years.
What Is the Fastest Sail Around the World Route?
You won't believe the breathtaking speed you can achieve on the fastest sail around the world route! By harnessing the Southern Hemisphere's winds, you'll glide eastward, maximizing your journey's velocity and efficiency.
What Is the Fastest Sailing Ship Ever?
The fastest sailing ship ever is the Vestas Sailrocket 2, which hit an incredible speed of 65.5 knots in 2012. You'd be amazed by the engineering that made this record-breaking achievement possible!
What Is the Guinness World Record for Sailing Around the World?
Ever wondered what it takes to conquer the globe by sea? The Guinness World Record for sailing around the world is held by IDEC Sport, completing the journey in just 40 days, 23 hours, and 30 minutes.
What Makes a Sailboat Fast Enough to Break Global Speed Records?
When it comes to achieving the fastest sailboat atlantic crossing, several factors come into play. The design of the sailboat, the materials used, the wind conditions, and the skills of the sailors all contribute to its speed. A well-designed, lightweight boat with efficient sails and experienced crew can push the limits of speed and break global records.
Conclusion
In the world of sailing, the thrill of breaking records never fades.
Did you know that the fastest circumnavigation of the globe by a sailboat is just under 40 days? This astonishing feat showcases the incredible advancements in technology and human determination.
As sailors continue to push boundaries and challenge each other, you can expect even more remarkable achievements in the future.
With every wave, the race to set new records will keep the spirit of adventure alive.