The history of sailing is filled with stories of courage, exploration, and determination. While the ocean has often been seen as a world dominated by men, women have played a powerful role in shaping the sport and lifestyle we know today. From pioneering explorers to record-breaking offshore racers, female sailors have continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible at sea.
For those who dream of life on the water, these stories are a reminder that sailing is not reserved for a select few. It is a skill that can be learned and a lifestyle that can be discovered. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate some of the remarkable women who helped redefine what is possible in sailing.
Women Who Broke Records in Offshore Sailing
Naomi James – First Woman to Sail Solo Around the World via Cape Horn
In 1978, Naomi James became the first woman to sail solo around the world via Cape Horn, completing the voyage in 272 days. Her journey proved that women could compete in the demanding world of offshore sailing and helped pave the way for greater female participation in ocean racing.
Tracy Edwards – Leading the All-Female Whitbread Round the World Crew
Few stories in sailing are as inspiring as Tracy Edwards and the all-female crew of Maiden in the 1989–1990 Whitbread Round the World Race. After struggling to find sponsorship and facing skepticism from the sailing establishment, Edwards assembled an all-women team that went on to win two legs of the race and finish second overall in their class. Their success proved that talent and determination matter more than tradition. The Maiden campaign later became the subject of the award-winning documentary Maiden.
Ellen MacArthur – Fastest Solo Circumnavigation of the Globe
British sailor Ellen MacArthur captured global attention in 2005 when she set the record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the world, completing the voyage in just over 71 days.
Her extraordinary journey showcased both technical skill and endurance, inspiring millions around the world to follow offshore sailing. MacArthur later founded the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which focuses on sustainability and environmental innovation.
Dee Caffari – First Woman to Sail Around the World Westward
In 2006, Dee Caffari became the first woman to sail solo, nonstop around the world westward, sailing against the prevailing winds and currents. This remains one of the most difficult challenges in offshore sailing. Caffari later competed in multiple Vendée Globe races and continues to inspire sailors around the world.
Samantha Davies – Vendée Globe Competitor and Ocean Advocate
Professional sailor Samantha Davies has competed in several Vendée Globe races, one of the toughest solo offshore sailing competitions in the world. Beyond racing, Davies has become a strong advocate for ocean conservation and for encouraging more women to pursue sailing.
Modern Female Sailors Making History Today
Cole Brauer – First American Woman to Sail Solo Around the World Nonstop
In 2024, American sailor Cole Brauer made history when she became the first American woman to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the world during the Global Solo Challenge.
Sailing more than 30,000 miles alone at sea, Brauer completed the race after roughly 130 days, finishing second overall aboard her Class40 yacht First Light. Her real-time updates from the middle of the ocean attracted hundreds of thousands of followers online and introduced a new generation to offshore sailing.
Justine Mettraux – Vendée Globe Record-Setting Performance
Swiss sailor Justine Mettraux delivered one of the strongest performances in modern offshore racing during the 2024–2025 Vendée Globe.
She finished 8th overall and set the record for the fastest solo non-stop monohull circumnavigation by a woman, completing the race in just over 76 days.
Jiang Lin – First Female Skipper to Win the Sydney to Hobart Overall
Another milestone occurred when sailor Jiang Lin became the first woman to skipper the overall winner of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.
The Sydney to Hobart is one of the most challenging offshore races in the world, making this achievement a significant moment for women in competitive sailing.
Why Women Are Playing a Bigger Role in Sailing Today
Stories like these remind us that sailing has never belonged to just one type of sailor.
Today, more people than ever are discovering that sailing is something you can learn, experience, and grow into. Whether your dream is racing offshore, cruising new coastlines, or simply enjoying weekends on the water, the journey begins with building the skills and confidence to take the helm.
At Catamaran Gurus Sailing Academy, we see that journey begin every week. Couples, families, and individuals step aboard for the first time and discover that sailing isn’t just a dream. It is a skill that can be learned. And sometimes all it takes is the courage to take the helm.
