Durban becomes a key checkpoint for the Mini Globe Race fleet as international sailors pause to refuel and recover before continuing leg three of the 26,000-nautical-mile solo journey.
Durban, South Africa (14 November 2025) – Durban’s marina has turned into a playground for some of the world’s bravest sailors as the Mini Globe Race fleet checks in. These solo skippers are navigating the globe in boats so tiny (only 5.8 metres long!) that most people would hesitate to take them across a lake. Yet here they are, on an adventure that spans continents.
The Mini Globe Race began back in February in Antigua and follows a westward route around the world, split into four gruelling stages. While the opening leg to Panama was the shortest, the second stretch required three different stopovers before competitors reached Fiji. The third leg brings them into Durban for a much-needed pause to refuel, before heading into a coastline known for rough conditions.
Dreamed up by Don McIntyre, the race channels a throwback, “old-school” spirit of ocean voyaging. South Africans may recognise McIntyre’s name from the Golden Globe Race. The same event where Kirsten Neuschäfer made history with her incredible victory.
At the front of the Mini Globe Race pack right now is Swiss sailor Renaud Stitelmann, who has absolutely fallen for Durban’s hospitality.
“This is my first time in South African and the arrival here in Durban, and in Fiji are both my favourite memories so far in the MGR. The welcomes in both places went direct to my heart.”
Renaud comes from a lifetime of adventure, having grown up sailing with his family under the burgee of Cercle de la Voile de Grandson.His steady approach has already secured him wins in the first two legs, and he currently leads leg three.
View this post on Instagram
Not far behind, retired British Navy Captain Keri Harris arrived with stories of wild weather between Mauritius and Durban.
“We sailed through a few impressive fronts between Mauritius and Durban. Nearing Durban, the storm that Dan witnessed barrelled towards me. I went through a flurry of tacks to attempt to stay clear of it, which was mostly successful.”
He reached the finish in stronger wind and was greeted at the line by former Rear Commodore of Dinghies, Bryce Bower.
“Having spent many years traversing the oceans, this experience has made a huge impact on me. The world is vast, varied, bountiful and beautiful. And it has been a privilege stopping off here in Durban.”
Among the standout performers is Spanish athlete Pilar Pasanau, who finished third in leg two and sits fourth overall. Of the 15 original entries, only 11 remain in the running.
Soon, this bold little fleet will chase the next weather window and race toward Cape Town before making the final push to Antigua via St Helena and Recife.
With its tagline “Small Boat, Huge Adventure,” the Mini Globe Race promises an exciting journey.
by 