Born in Malta and raised between the United States, Switzerland, Dubai and Doha, Katherine Urpani has lived an adventurous and unconventional life. After discovering yacht chartering in the Caribbean in the late 1980s, sailing became her profession and primary livelihood for more than three decades.

Her sailing experience includes seven Atlantic crossings, a Pacific crossing to Australia, extensive Caribbean and Mediterranean seasons, and numerous offshore passages between the US East Coast and the Caribbean. She has also owned and restored her own yacht, spending a year cruising largely single-handed along Mexico’s Pacific coast while funding her travels by performing music in local bars.

Away from the sea, Katherine built an off-grid home in the remote desert of southern Utah, living a self-sufficient lifestyle while continuing to spend winters working and sailing in the Caribbean.

Her introduction to the Class Globe 5.80 came while based in Antigua. After touring several boats, meeting competitors and learning more about the class, she was hooked. Drawn by the challenge, simplicity and spirit of adventure that define the Globe 5.80, Katherine now looks forward to her own Atlantic crossing and the opportunity to swap computer screens for an endless horizon of ocean waves.

Why do you want to compete in the Globe 5.80 Transat?

I’ve wanted to sail solo on a Transat for a very long time. The boats and the sprit of this event make it seem more achievable.

Sailing Experience

Professional yacht crew since 1989. 7 Transats, many deliveries to east coast USA, Caribbean, Annapolis, Galapagos, Vanuatu to Australia, Tahiti season then to Hawaii. Several throughout Mediterranean seasons etc.

What do you consider to be the best and the worst part about the 5.80 Transat?

Best: The support!

Worst: The self promotion necessary.

Links

Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586293001709