He Retired Twice—Now Ertan Is Back to Finish the Golden Globe Race!

After two previous Golden Globe Race attempts and an incredible voyage around the world in the 19-foot Globe 5.80 TREKKA, Ertan Beskardes is back—and more determined than ever to finish the GGR 2026. In this open and entertaining interview with Don McIntyre, Ertan discusses his journey from the 2018 Golden Globe Race to his emotional decision to retire in Cape Town during the 2022 edition. He then reveals how the Mini Globe Race transformed his understanding of ocean sailing, isolation and life at sea—and why, almost immediately after finishing, he decided to return for another attempt at the Golden Globe Race. Now sailing the famous former MATMUT, renamed MISS BEAGLE, Ertan believes he has the experience, the boat and the mental preparation needed to finally complete his unfinished GGR journey. In this interview: ⛵ Why Ertan retired from the GGR in 2018 and 2022 🌍 What he learned sailing around the world in the Mini Globe Race 🧠 Why the GGR is more about mental strength than sailing ❤️ The importance of family support and coping with isolation 🚤 How he found and prepared MISS BEAGLE for the race 🌊 His hopes for the Southern Ocean, Hobart and Cape Horn 😂 Plus Don’s unpredictable quick-fire questions! Can Ertan make it third time lucky and complete his solo, nonstop voyage around the world? Follow Ertan and all the GGR 2026 entrants as they prepare for the start from Les Sables d’Olonne on 6 September 2026. Subscribe and turn on notifications for more entrant interviews, race updates and behind-the-scenes stories from the Golden Globe Race. #GoldenGlobeRace #GGR2026 #ErtanBeskardes #SoloSailing #AroundTheWorld #OceanSailing #CapeHorn #SouthernOcean #MissBeagle #MiniGlobeRace