Solo Around the World on a 6.5 Metre Sailing Boat

Alessandro Di Benedetto set off from Les Sables d'Olonne, on the French Atlantic coast, on 26th October 2009 and returned on 22nd July 2010 after enduring the physical and mental challenges of crossing the Equator twice, all the meridians and rounding Cape Good Hope, Cape Leeuwin, and the dreaded Cape Horn. He achieved a feat that is truly unique, completing the non-stop sailing circumnavigation on a 6.5 metre sailing boat with the official time of 268 days, 19 hours, 36 minutes, and 12 seconds. This performance was certified by the World Sailing Speed Record Council / International Sailing Federation, adding to the allure of his record. To set a new record for circumnavigating the world in the smallest boat ever, Di Benedetto followed the same route as the Vendée Globe Race. He set off from Les Sables d'Olonne in France and returned to the same city after travelling with the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa), Cape Leeuwin (Australia), and Cape Horn (South America) to his left and the Antarctic to his right. These locations are significant in sailing history and their successful navigation is a testament to Di Benedetto's skill and determination.