News
All-Female Crew of The Famous Project CIC Complete Historic Jules Verne Trophy Lap
Published Tue 27 Jan 2026
The Famous Project CIC has made sailing history, becoming the first all-female crew to complete a non-stop circumnavigation of the globe aboard a maxi multihull.
The international crew crossed the finish line off Ushant on 26 January, completing the Jules Verne Trophy lap in 57 days, 21 hours and 20 minutes — the fastest time ever recorded by an all-female crew. Skipper Alexia Barrier led an eight-strong international team aboard the trimaran Forever First.
Among the crew was Australian offshore sailor and 2025 Queensland Female sailor of the Year winner, Stacey Jackson, who played a key role in this landmark voyage, alongside her seven international teammates: Dee Caffari (UK), Annemieke Bes (Netherlands), Rebecca Gmür Hornell (Switzerland/New Zealand), Deborah Blair (UK), Molly LaPointe (USA/Italy), Támara Echegoyen (Spain), and skipper Alexia Barrier (France).

Photo © Lloyd / Jmliot Images / CIC
The team battled demanding Southern Ocean conditions, equipment damage, and long stretches of heavy weather as they rounded the world’s great capes, including Cape Horn.
While the overall Jules Verne Trophy speed record remains intact, the completion of this lap marks a major milestone for women in offshore sailing and showcases the growing impact of Australian sailors on the global stage.
The Famous Project CIC has not only set a new record for all-female crews, but also demonstrated the resilience, skill, and teamwork required to conquer one of the world’s toughest sailing challenges.
Read the full story and follow their journey here: Forever first! - The Famous Project