Adventurer James Ketchell sets sail on solo trip round the world

An adventurer is preparing to set sail on a solo trip around the world.

James Ketchell, from Basingstoke in Hampshire, will be setting off on his third circumnavigation challenge aboard his class 40 yacht named Mindset.

Mr Ketchell has spent the past five years preparing for the adventure and is hoping to become the first person to circumnavigate the globe by air, land and sea.

It will take around nine months to travel 30,000 miles (48, 280km), with stops in the Canary Islands, Cape Town, Melbourne, Uruguay, Antigua and New York before returning to port in Gosport.

The expedition is Mr Ketchell’s second sailing attempt after he was forced to abandon his first try in 2024 due to a gearbox failure.

In a statement ahead of his planned departure from Premier’s Gosport Marina at 14:00 BST, Mr Ketchell said: “Embarking on my third circumnavigation of the world, this time upon a yacht that I love, will be a significant challenge for me both physically and mentally.

“But [it is] one I have been prepared for thanks to my team and the support I’ve received.”

In 2013, he circumnavigated the globe on a bicycle and again in 2019 in a gyrocopter.

This time, Mr Ketchell is hoping to take young people on a virtual journey with him around the world, with plans to livestream videos to classrooms throughout.

Marina manager Jonathan Walcroft said: “We are incredibly proud to have supported James on his inspiring journey around the world.

“Our team has worked closely with James to ensure he has everything he needs for a safe and successful circumnavigation.

“James’ journey is a testament to the spirit of adventure that defines our marina.”