Girish Mahajan (Editor)

Transatlantic sailing record

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Transatlantic sailing record

Since the five-week voyage of Christopher Columbus in 1492, crossing the Atlantic, quickly and safely, between Europe and America has always been an important issue. Today, the route has become a classic one among skippers. The record is one of the most prestigious, next to the Jules Verne Trophy, for which it is often a good preparation.

Contents

This record can be achieved both ways: from west to east or from east to west. It can also be homologated single-handed or crewed, on monohulls or on multihulls. It is homologated, since 1972, by the WSSRC

From west to east

This route is the fastest, as it follows the prevailing westerlies. It is the one that meets the most interest among skippers. The crossing must be made from Ambrose Light of (New York) to an imaginary line linking Lizard Point, Cornwall to Ushant. The distance is around 2,880 nautical miles (5,330 km; 3,310 mi).

From east to west

This crossing is made between Cadiz and San Salvador Island, for a distance of 8300 kilometres or 4,481 nautical miles (8,299 km). It was also called Road of the discovery in honor of Christopher Colombus and his 1492 crossing.

References

Transatlantic sailing record Wikipedia