Dee Caffari MBE is the only woman to have sailed solo, non-stop, around the world in both directions and has now sailed around the world a total of six times.
Born in 1973 in England, awarded an MBE in recognition of her solo circumnavigation against the prevailing winds and currents, Dee set a world record by becoming the first woman to complete this ‘wrong’ way round voyage in 2006. Dee went on to compete in the 2008/9 Vendée Globe – a race around the world, non-stop and alone, known within the sailing arena as the pinnacle solo offshore event, crossing the finish line in 6th place out of 30 competitors. In 2011 Dee successfully completed the Barcelona World Race with a Spanish co skipper, allowing Dee to become the only woman to have circumnavigated the globe non-stop three times. In addition to sailing around the world six times, Dee also holds a number of world and speed sailing records. Having originally started out as a secondary school physical education teacher, Dee made the decision to change careers in 2000 as the desire for adventure, travel and experiencing new environments took hold. Dee’s sailing career saw her rise through the ranks to become one of the most successful and recognised British offshore sailors.