As a city steeped in maritime history, Plymouth has long been a starting point for some of the most legendary sailors and iconic sailing events. From the days of Sir Francis Drake to the modern era of solo circumnavigation, Plymouth’s harbour and surrounding waters have witnessed tales of courage, exploration, and groundbreaking achievements that continue to inspire sailors around the world. Here’s a look at some of the most remarkable sailors and sailing events that have called Plymouth home.
Sir Francis Drake: A Maritime Pioneer
No discussion of Plymouth’s maritime legacy would be complete without mentioning Sir Francis Drake, one of the most famous figures in British naval history. Drake, who became the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe in 1577, launched many of his significant expeditions from Plymouth. He was known for his fearless exploration, skilled seamanship, and his role in defeating the Spanish Armada in 1588—a victory famously said to have occurred after finishing a game of bowls on Plymouth Hoe!
Drake’s voyages not only expanded English influence but also inspired generations of sailors to explore the world’s oceans. His statue on Plymouth Hoe remains a testament to his lasting legacy and to Plymouth’s critical role in the Age of Exploration.
The OSTAR Race: A Legacy of Solo Sailing
Plymouth is also home to one of the most challenging and prestigious solo sailing races in the world: the Observer Singlehanded Transatlantic Race (OSTAR). Established in 1960, the OSTAR was the first solo transatlantic yacht race, setting the stage for an entirely new genre of competitive sailing. Starting from Plymouth, the race stretches across 3,000 nautical miles to the finish line in Newport, Rhode Island.
Many of the world’s greatest sailors have competed in OSTAR, from Sir Francis Chichester, who won the inaugural race, to Dame Ellen MacArthur, whose solo achievements continue to inspire. The OSTAR race embodies the spirit of endurance, self-reliance, and bravery that Plymouth fosters in sailors who take on the challenge of the open sea.
Sir Francis Chichester and Gipsy Moth IV
In 1966-67, Plymouth became the departure point for one of the most celebrated achievements in British sailing: Sir Francis Chichester’s solo circumnavigation. Setting off in his iconic yacht Gipsy Moth IV, Chichester sailed around the world with only one stop, covering more than 28,000 miles. His return to Plymouth marked a historic moment, as he became the first person to sail solo around the world via the clipper route with just one stop.
Sir Francis Chichester’s journey was a testament to determination and resilience, inspiring sailors worldwide. Today, his yacht Gipsy Moth IV is preserved as a symbol of his achievements, a reminder of the bold spirit that Plymouth fosters.
The Fastnet Race: Testing Skill and Endurance
The Fastnet Race, one of the world’s most famous offshore yacht races, has a strong connection to Plymouth. Established in 1925, this 608-mile race takes competitors from Cowes around the Fastnet Rock off Ireland’s coast and finishes in Plymouth. Known for its challenging conditions and complex navigation, the Fastnet Race is seen as a rite of passage for competitive sailors.
In 1979, the race made headlines when a sudden storm led to tragic losses, forcing a major overhaul of safety standards in offshore racing. Today, the Fastnet continues to challenge elite sailors while setting the bar for endurance and skill in the world of competitive sailing. The race remains an iconic part of Plymouth’s sailing heritage, with the city welcoming competitors from all over the world as they complete this intense journey.
The Mayflower and the Pilgrim Fathers
While not a race or competitive journey, the historic 1620 voyage of the Mayflower from Plymouth to the New World stands as one of the most significant events in maritime history. The Mayflower, carrying the Pilgrim Fathers, set sail from Plymouth to establish one of the first successful European colonies in North America.
This journey was monumental not only in the history of exploration but also in shaping the relationship between the UK and the US. The Mayflower Steps near Sutton Harbour are a powerful reminder of this historic voyage and are visited by people from around the world who wish to honor the Pilgrim Fathers’ courage.
Dame Ellen MacArthur: A Modern-Day Hero
Plymouth’s influence on the world of solo sailing continued with Dame Ellen MacArthur, who in June 2000 sailed the monohull Kingfisher from Plymouth, UK to Newport, Rhode Island, USA in 14 days, 23 hours, 11 minutes. This is the current record for a single-handed woman monohull east-to-west passage, and also the record for a single-handed woman in any vessel.
Her determination and skill inspired millions, especially in Plymouth, where she has been celebrated as a role model for sailors of all ages. Dame Ellen’s journey marked a new era in solo sailing and highlighted Plymouth’s role in encouraging sailors to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
In addition to her sailing achievements, Dame Ellen has become an advocate for sustainability through the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, promoting a circular economy to protect the oceans she knows so well. Her story is one of resilience, adventure, and purpose—values deeply embedded in Plymouth’s sailing culture.
SailGP: High-Speed Racing in Plymouth Sound
In recent years, Plymouth has become a prominent venue for SailGP, one of the world’s most thrilling and high-tech sailing series. SailGP features national teams competing in identical F50 foiling catamarans capable of reaching speeds over 50 knots. Plymouth Sound provides a stunning and challenging backdrop for this fast-paced event, which has attracted thousands of spectators and brought global attention to Plymouth as a premier sailing destination.
The SailGP event showcases Plymouth’s versatility as a host for both traditional and modern forms of sailing. This high-speed, high-adrenaline event is a perfect addition to Plymouth’s storied maritime history, connecting the city’s past with the future of sailing.
Plymouth’s Enduring Sailing Legacy
From the Golden Age of Exploration to today’s solo sailing pioneers, Plymouth continues to be a city that inspires, supports, and celebrates sailors. Sutton Harbour Marina proudly honors this rich maritime legacy by providing a secure and vibrant hub for the next generation of sailors. As you walk through the harbour, you’re stepping into a place that has witnessed centuries of courage and adventure, where every berth and every view is a reminder of Plymouth’s enduring influence on the world of sailing.
Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just beginning to explore the waters, we invite you to connect with the spirit of adventure that defines Plymouth. Here’s to those who have charted the path before us and to those who continue to sail beyond the horizon.
