09/20/2026
A QUICK UPDATE ON SPIRIT
While sailing south toward Lanzarote, I noticed movement in the lower diagonal shroud on the port side, one of the stays that helps support the mast. This is also the side of Spirit that was damaged in the 2022 accident.
The prudent decision was to stop in Lanzarote and arrange a complete inspection of the chainplate area. I needed to determine the extent of the problem, whether it could be repaired, how long the work would take, and what it would cost.
The current estimate is approximately €8,000, close to $10,000, and I simply do not have the funds available to pay for the repair.
That is why I am asking my friends, supporters, and everyone following this adventure for help. If repairs can begin Monday morning, there is still a chance for Spirit and me to rejoin the Golden Globe event in the Chichester Class. This class is for sailors who have stopped or received outside assistance and therefore can no longer compete in the official race standings.
I do not currently have access to a GoFundMe account. The easiest way to contribute is through Venmo:
Guy de Boer
Phone number: 305-766-5832
Every contribution, regardless of the amount, will help bring Spirit closer to being repaired and returning to sea.
Although I would no longer be competing in the official race, I would still be sailing around the world alongside my fellow Golden Globe skippers and pursuing my personal goal of catching up with the fleet. A few boats remain behind me, so I would not be making this journey alone.
I hope this is not asking too much. Your support could help get Spirit repaired, back into the Golden Globe adventure, and sailing toward the Southern Ocean.
Please share this message if you can.
Be kind, think great, and let’s get Spirit sailing again.
Thank you for all the support you have given me in the past, and for whatever support you may be able to offer now. Please share to your circle of friends.
Guy DeBoer