On the Malizia – Seaexplorer, Boris covered 29,201 nautical miles in the non-stop circumnavigation, which is an incredible 54,100 kilometres, sailing once around the globe at an average speed of 15.13 knots (around 28 km/h). For a long time, the race went almost perfectly for Boris. For over two months, he set a strong pace and even fought his way to within 17 nautical miles of fourth place. But difficult weeks followed: a collision with an unknown object resulted in significant damage to the port foil of his boat and made steering a challenge. Although he was forced to slow down, he remained right on course.

Shortly before the finish, however, he encountered another major obstacle. A massive storm in the Bay of Biscay with wind speeds of up to 50 knots and nine-metre-high waves tested his skill to the utmost limits. A single wrong move would have jeopardised his safe arrival. And as if that wasn’t enough, his mainsail tore only hours before arriving at the finishing line. Despite all these challenges, Boris persevered and brought his Malizia – Seaexplorer safely back to Les Sables d’Olonne.

An emotional reception in Les Sables d’Olonne

Boris’ arrival didn’t quite go to plan. Due to the stormy conditions, the skipper was forced to spend another night alone on board before his crew could join him. It was not until the afternoon of 30 January that he was finally able to enter the port of Les Sables d’Olonne together with his family, his team and his supporters, where he was greeted by cheering fans.