Sailing the world – Routes and Requirements

Embarking on a sailing adventure around the world is a dream for many, offering the freedom to explore remote islands, pristine waters, and diverse cultures. Getting started with such a grand voyage requires careful planning, preparation, and a clear understanding of potential routes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the initial steps and explore some of the key routes recommended for circumnavigation.

Table of Contents

Getting Started

1. Acquiring Skills and Knowledge:

Sailing Courses: Before setting sail, it’s essential to gain adequate sailing skills. Enrolling in sailing courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels is crucial. Institutions like the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) offer certifications that can be highly beneficial.
Experience: Hands-on experience is invaluable. Participating in shorter sailing trips or joining experienced sailors can provide practical insights and build confidence.

2. Choosing the Right Yacht:

Type of Yacht: Depending on your preferences and the nature of your journey, you might choose a monohull or a multihull (catamaran). Each has its pros and cons concerning space, speed, and stability.
Equipment: Ensure your yacht is well-equipped with essential safety gear, navigation tools, communication devices, and provisions for long voyages.

3. Financial Planning:

Budgeting: Sailing around the world can be expensive. Budget for the cost of the yacht, maintenance, docking fees, fuel, food, and emergency funds.
Funding: Consider various funding options, such as savings, sponsorships, or even working while sailing.

4. Legal and Documentation:

Passports and Visas: Ensure that your passport is up-to-date and research visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit.
Permits: Obtain necessary sailing permits and ensure your yacht’s registration and insurance are in order.

Recommended Routes

Embarking on a circumnavigation by sailboat is a grand adventure that demands careful planning and an understanding of the various routes available. Here’s an in-depth look at some of the most popular and historically significant sailing routes around the world, each with its unique attractions and challenges.

The Coconut Milk Run

Route:

Starting Point: Panama
Destinations: Galapagos Islands, French Polynesia, Cook Islands, Tonga, Fiji
Ending Point: New Zealand or Australia

Details:
The Coconut Milk Run is renowned for its relatively calm conditions and the ease of sailing provided by the trade winds. This route traverses some of the most idyllic and remote islands in the Pacific Ocean.

Panama: Begin your journey by transiting the Panama Canal, a monumental engineering feat that connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Galapagos Islands: Famous for their unique wildlife and natural beauty, these islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
French Polynesia: Includes the Marquesas, Tuamotus, and Society Islands (Tahiti, Bora Bora). These islands offer stunning lagoons, vibrant coral reefs, and a rich Polynesian culture.
Cook Islands and Tonga: Known for their warm hospitality and beautiful, unspoiled landscapes.
Fiji: A popular cruising destination with over 300 islands, offering excellent diving and a vibrant indigenous culture.

The Milk Run

Route:

Starting Point: Panama
Destinations: French Polynesia, Tonga, Fiji
Ending Point: Australia

Details:
This route is similar to the Coconut Milk Run but often involves a more direct path, making it a slightly shorter alternative.

Panama to French Polynesia: Sail through the Galapagos Islands, if desired, before heading to the expansive and varied French Polynesia.
Tonga and Fiji: Continue exploring these island nations, known for their friendly locals and scenic beauty.
Australia: The final leg of this journey takes sailors to Australia, often making landfall on the eastern coast, such as in Brisbane or Sydney.

The Atlantic Circuit

Route:

Starting Point: Europe (typically the Canary Islands)
Destinations: Caribbean (e.g., Bahamas, Puerto Rico, British Virgin Islands)
Return Route: Via Bermuda and the Azores back to Europe

Details:
This route is perfect for those wanting to explore the Caribbean in-depth and enjoy a structured circuit that brings them back to Europe.

Canary Islands: The starting point due to their favorable location for crossing the Atlantic.
Caribbean Islands: Spend several months exploring the diverse islands of the Caribbean, each offering unique experiences, from the bustling ports of the Bahamas to the serene bays of the British Virgin Islands.
Bermuda: A key stop on the return journey, providing a respite and opportunity for resupply.
Azores: Another important stop before completing the circuit back to Europe, offering stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences.

The North Atlantic Loop

Route:

Starting Point: Europe
Destinations: Caribbean, East Coast USA, Canada, Greenland
Return Route: Back to Europe

Details:
This route is for the more adventurous, combining tropical and temperate climates and incorporating both coastal and offshore sailing.

Europe to Caribbean: Cross the Atlantic from Europe, making a stop in the Canary Islands or Cape Verde.
East Coast USA: Sail up the East Coast, visiting major cities like Miami, New York, and Boston.
Canada: Explore the Maritimes and Newfoundland, known for their rugged beauty and friendly communities.
Greenland: A challenging but rewarding sail, offering spectacular scenery and a unique Arctic experience.
Return to Europe: Sail back to Europe, often via Iceland or the UK.

The Trade Wind Route

Route:

Starting Point: Canary Islands
Destinations: Caribbean, Panama Canal, Pacific Islands
Ending Point: Australia or New Zealand

Details:
Leveraging the consistent trade winds, this route offers smooth sailing conditions and access to a variety of cultures and natural wonders.

Canary Islands: Start by sailing south to catch the trade winds across the Atlantic.
Caribbean: After crossing the Atlantic, explore the Caribbean, then transit through the Panama Canal.
Pacific Islands: Continue through the Galapagos, Marquesas, and other South Pacific islands.
Australia/New Zealand: End your journey in the welcoming waters of Australia or New Zealand, known for their sailing-friendly environments and beautiful coastlines.

Conclusion

Sailing around the world is an adventurous and rewarding endeavor, but it requires meticulous planning and preparation. By equipping yourself with the necessary skills, choosing the right yacht, and understanding your financial and legal obligations, you can set sail on an unforgettable journey. Exploring the recommended routes, such as the Coconut Milk Run, the Milk Run, the Atlantic Circuit, the North Atlantic Loop, and the Trade Wind Route, will expose you to the breathtaking beauty and diverse cultures of our planet.