GGR Skipper Stories – Episode 09 - Guy deBoer | McIntyre Golden Globe Race 2022/23
October 11, 2025 · 27 min · 11K views · Bay of Biscay
What this video covers
Guy deBoer, a competitor in the 2022/23 Golden Globe Race, wrecked his boat, *Spirit*, on the rocks of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands after falling asleep at the helm.17:43 Following a checkpoint passage at Lanzarote, deBoer sailed down the east side of Fuerteventura while severely fatigued from a 30-hour watch.19:14 As wind velocity dropped, the Hydrovane self-steering system allowed the boat to turn toward the shore, where it grounded on lava rocks.19:51 The vessel sustained significant hull and keel damage during the grounding, though deBoer successfully evacuated all diesel fuel to prevent environmental impact.22:47 Local salvage companies and an attorney assisted in recovering the boat, which was eventually placed on jack stands for damage assessment and repair.22:00 Earlier in the race, deBoer experienced severe seasickness, a near-collision with a fishing boat that resulted in a leg injury, and tactical difficulties navigating the Bay of Biscay.2:49 Extreme fatigue and the decision to sail a lee shore while exhausted caused the grounding.
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