Gipsy Moth IV

Gipsy Moth IV Returns to Cowes- Suzanne Whitewood.

On one of the warmest days of the year so far Gipsy Moth IV returned to her base at UKSA Cowes. Not just a return after a quick sail in the Solent but after a circumnavigation of the World- 28,264 miles.
After finishing the main part of the voyage at Plymouth the week before, and 40 years to the day(28.5.1967) after the vessel�s memorable home coming with Sir Francis Chichester on board, Gipsy Moth IV arrived at Cowes on the 3rd of June.
Having made a brief stop at Yarmouth for the Old Gaffers Festival the arrival at her UKSA base was attended by Dame Ellen MacArthur and local dignitaries including Cllr Roger Mazillius Chairman IW Council.
Also greeting her home were a number of young people who had been on board for legs of the round the World trip. Some spoke of the highs and lows of their particular leg, of experiences gained and friendships made. For some it had been a life changing experience.
Ninety six participants, including 15 from the Island, had taken part in the voyage which had started in Plymouth on 25th September 2005 together with 10 Skippers, 19 Mates and 32 team leaders. The trip was split into 32 legs.
Twenty different countries were visited and various weather conditions were experienced. Temperatures ranged from 42 deg. in the Indian Ocean to 9 deg. in the near home, English Channel. Supporting the project was the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership
In welcoming the boat back Dame Ellen told the invited guests how, as a child in Derbyshire, she had been inspired to sail after reading Sir Francis Chichester�s book. She found it an emotional experience to sail on board Gipsy Moth IV.