Gypsy Moth IV is one of the most iconic yachts in British maritime history, known for her association with legendary sailor Sir Francis Chichester. Built in 1966 by Camper and Nicholsons, the 53-foot ketch was purpose-designed to help Sir Francis Chichester to attempt a remarkable feat, to sail solo around the world with just one stop. Which had never before been accomplished. Constructed using cold-moulded Honduras
He navigated alone through the Southern Ocean, Cape Horn, and across vast, often treacherous waters. His successful circumnavigation made Gypsy Moth IV a national treasure and Chichester a knight, knighted by Queen Elizabeth II using the very sword of Sir Francis Drake. The yacht instantly became a symbol of resilience, daring, and British seafaring excellence.
Following years of neglect, Gypsy Moth IV was eventually restored in the early 2000s thanks to a major conservation effort. She now serves both as a historic vessel and as a tool for education and youth sailing programmes. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of sailors and adventurers. Gypsy Moth IV is not only a feat of nautical design and endurance, but also a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for challenge, solitude, and discovery. For sailing enthusiasts and maritime historians alike, she represents a pivotal moment in modern ocean racing and solo navigation. Her journey marked a turning point in what individuals could achieve alone at sea, and her sleek silhouette remains a lasting tribute to one of the greatest sailing voyages of the 20th century. This photo of Gypsy Moth IV was taken while she was near Cowes, on the Isle of Wight, UK.
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Gypsy Moth IV is one of the most iconic yachts in British maritime history, known for her association with legendary sailor Sir Francis Chichester. Built in 1966 by Camper and Nicholsons, the 53-foot ketch was purpose-designed to help Sir Francis Chichester to attempt a remarkable feat, to sail solo around the world with just one stop. Which had never before been accomplished. Constructed using cold-moulded Honduras
Gypsy Moth IV is one of the most iconic yachts in British maritime history, known for her association with legendary sailor Sir Francis Chichester. Built in 1966 by Camper and Nicholsons, the 53-foot ketch was purpose-designed to help Sir Francis Chichester to attempt a remarkable feat, to sail solo around the world with just one stop. Which had never before been accomplished. Constructed using cold-moulded Honduras
IRC Zero has a rich seam of ocean-going history running through it. While French round the world race legend Jean-Luc Van Den Heede (aka VDH) isn’t competing in the Rolex Fastnet Race, two of his former steeds will be on the IRC Zero start line.
