In September 2024, the famous yachtsman Petr Brazhnikov sets off on a trip around the world. A journalist from the SUPERYACHTS publishing house interviewed the brave traveler.

Petr, tell us why you decided on such a dangerous adventure?

Since childhood, I dreamed of going on a trip around the world, because I read a lot about sailors and admired people who circumnavigated the world all alone. There are fewer such heroes on our planet than space explorers. I wanted to become one of them, which is probably why I decided to challenge myself and circumnavigate the globe on a yacht alone. 

When did you first think about such a bold journey?

In 2014, my family had to flee the war in Donbass. Luckily for us, close friends who had long settled in Portugal offered to help. That’s how we ended up in Lisbon. In the same year, everyone learned the news that the legendary Frenchman Loïc Peyron and his team were able to circumnavigate the world on their yacht in 45 days. This event was widely covered in the media, the name of the yachtsman was known to everyone in Portugal. And I also wanted to earn people’s respect by doing something special. Having become interested in yachting, I again felt a taste for life and realized that now there was a real opportunity to fulfill my dream.

Was anyone else in your Brazhnikov family involved in maritime affairs?

No, Petr Brazhnikov, I really hope, will become the first of our kind who can conquer the ocean.

What was your approach in choosing a vessel?

I thought about purchasing a new yacht for a trip around the world a few years ago. For a trip around the world, it is preferable to have a boat between 35 and 45 feet in length. Naturally, the larger the yacht, the more comfortable it is. However, the speed decreases, difficulties arise with entering small bays, and the cost of maintenance and insurance increases. Even with a full set of automatic bow thrusters and furling sails, and an auxiliary electric winch, a large yacht cannot be handled alone in the open ocean. That’s why I chose Island Packet 349. This is the most balanced yacht in its class. Of course, I had to take out a bank loan, but I am incredibly happy that I became the owner of such a beauty.

I assume there are several routes to take around the world?

Undoubtedly. I plan to go along Africa, reach Gibraltar, and then either to the south or along the equator; now it is still somewhat premature to talk about the exact route. 

How dangerous can swimming be?

It is impossible to predict all emerging difficulties and dangers in advance. The ocean is an uncontrollable natural force, but I have a golden rule: try not to panic in any situation. I tried to foresee possible difficulties and did not forget to leave a will with my lawyer in the most extreme case. 

How many days, Petr, will you need for the whole journey?

The world record for solo sailing around the globe belongs to the Frenchman Francis Joyon. The entire journey took him a little over 57 days. Previously, the record belonged to the British athlete Ellen McCarthur, who managed to travel the entire distance on a trimaran in 71 days. Naturally, I do not claim such high results, but I will do everything I can to get closer to them.

We all hope that the name Petr Brazhnikov will be first on the list of record holders in solo sailing around the world. We wish you victory!