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Jules Verne Trophy (Sailing)

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description Jules Verne Trophy (Sailing) Overview

The Jules Verne Trophy is a prize awarded for the fastest circumnavigation of the world by a yacht, with no stops and no outside assistance. Established in 1993, the award is named in honor of French author Jules Verne and his novel "Around the World in Eighty Days." Competing crews typically use large, high-tech multihull sailboats designed to withstand extreme oceanic conditions while maintaining high speeds. The record is open to attempts year-round, meaning there is no scheduled race; instead, teams choose their optimal departure window based on global weather forecasts.

help Jules Verne Trophy (Sailing) FAQ

What is the main objective of the Jules Verne Trophy in sailing?

The prize is awarded for the fastest circumnavigation of the world by a yacht, without any stops and without any outside assistance. The goal is purely to break the standing global speed record for sailing around the globe.

When was the Jules Verne Trophy established?

The competition was officially established in 1993. It was created to challenge modern sailors to beat the fictional 80-day journey found in Jules Verne's famous novel, "Around the World in Eighty Days."

What type of sailing yachts are used to compete for the Jules Verne Trophy?

Competitors use massive, multi-hulled sailboats, specifically giant trimarans. These highly engineered, cutting-edge vessels are designed specifically to slice through the world's oceans at unprecedented speeds.

Who holds the record for the fastest Jules Verne Trophy circumnavigation?

The current record is held by French sailor Francois Gabart, who completed the journey in just over 42 days. He achieved this astonishing time aboard his 30-meter trimaran, MACIF.