Close to the Wind summary

The Start of a Life-Threatening Journey

In Close to the Wind, Pete Goss shares his incredible story of competing in the 1996 Vendée Globe, a solo round-the-world yacht race. The race begins with 16 sailors setting off from France, each on their own vessel, to sail around the world without stopping or receiving any assistance. Goss, an experienced sailor and former Royal Marine, joins the race with his 50-foot yacht, Aqua Quorum.

Early into the race, Goss faces a series of challenges including extreme weather conditions and technical difficulties with his boat. Despite these obstacles, he remains determined and continues to sail on, determined to complete the race.

Braving the Fury of the Southern Ocean

As Goss approaches the treacherous Southern Ocean, the weather takes a turn for the worse. He encounters violent storms and gigantic waves, putting his boat and his own life at risk. During one particularly fierce storm, Aqua Quorum is knocked down and Goss is thrown overboard. He manages to hang on to the boat's safety line and drag himself back on board, narrowly escaping death.

Despite these harrowing experiences, Goss continues his journey, battling through the relentless fury of the Southern Ocean. He describes the psychological and physical toll the isolation and constant danger take on him, as he struggles to keep his boat afloat and himself alive.

A Remarkable Act of Courage and Compassion

Midway through the race, Goss receives a distress signal from fellow competitor, Raphael Dinelli. Dinelli's boat has capsized, leaving him stranded in the middle of the Southern Ocean. Despite the extreme weather and the considerable risk to his own life, Goss makes the courageous decision to divert from the race and attempt a rescue.

What follows is an incredible display of seamanship and selflessness. Goss navigates through the storm to reach Dinelli's location, eventually finding him in his damaged life raft. After a challenging rescue operation, Goss brings Dinelli on board Aqua Quorum, saving his fellow sailor's life.

The End of the Race and the Spirit of Adventure

After ensuring Dinelli's safety, Goss resumes the race, demonstrating unwavering determination in the face of adversity. He completes the grueling journey, finishing in an impressive 2nd place despite the significant time lost during the rescue operation.

In Close to the Wind, Goss shares his incredible adventure with honesty and humility, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the sea and the power of the human spirit. His remarkable act of courage and compassion in rescuing a fellow sailor in the midst of a solo race stands as a testament to the unbreakable bond shared by those who brave the world's oceans.