Celebrating the Trailblazers of Sailing: Violette Dorange and Marta Cardona Alcántara on Forbes 30 Under 30

Is sailing finally having its moment in the spotlight? The prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list seems to think so, as it highlights the incredible accomplishments of two young sailors: French offshore sailor Violette Dorange and Spanish 470 mixed-crew champion Marta Cardona Alcántara. These rising stars are not just breaking records but are also inspiring a new generation of sailors.

Violette Dorange: The Youngest Vendée Skipper

Violette Dorange has made waves as the youngest-ever skipper in the legendary Vendée Globe. At just 23 years old, she completed the grueling round-the-world race in an astonishing 90 days, 22 hours, and 37 minutes, finishing 25th out of 40 competitors. Her journey aboard the monohull DeVenir, a boat with a storied past, captured the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Her story is a shining example of grit and perseverance. “I hope to make young people want to go on an adventure,” she said in an interview with The Guardian, emphasizing her desire to inspire others to embrace the challenge of nature.

Violette Dorange holds smoke flares as she celebrates on her Imoca monohull Devenir after placing 25th in the Vendée Globe. Photo by Sebastien Salom-Gomis / AFP via Getty Images.

Achievements and Future Aspirations

Dorange’s career began with a string of successes, starting at the 420 World Youth Open Championships. At just 15, she crossed the English Channel on an Optimist, showcasing her natural talent and determination. Following this feat, Dorange took part in rigorous competitions like the Mini Transat and the Transat Jacques Vabre, paving her way through the elite ranks of competitive sailing.

Since her Vendée Globe success, she has penned a book detailing her extraordinary experiences and has been featured in a Disney+ documentary. Her service as a co-skipper with celebrated sailor Sam Davies on the IMOCA team Initiatives-Cœur further solidifies her place in the sailing world.

Marta Cardona Alcántara: The 470 Class Sensation

Meanwhile, Marta Cardona Alcántara, at only 21, has already made a name for herself as a force to be reckoned with in the 470 class. Recently awarded the Youth World Sailor of the Year in 2025, she has topped the podium multiple times in both World and European Championships.

Young World Sailor of the Year Marta Cardona Alcántara with sailing partner Jordi Xammar Hernàndez. Photo by World Sailing.

Rapid Ascent and Olympic Aspirations

Cardona Alcántara’s debut season in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary; she secured both World and European Championships with her sailing partner and Olympic medalist Jordi Xammar after just 40 days of training together. This remarkable achievement laid the groundwork for what many believe will be a stellar Olympic campaign.

With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics on the horizon, expectations are high. Given her momentum and talent, Cardona Alcántara is positioned to be a vital asset for Spain as they pursue Olympic glory.

A New Era for Sailing

The inclusion of Violette Dorange and Marta Cardona Alcántara in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list signifies a transformative moment for the sport of sailing. From inspirational journeys around the globe to dominating the competition in high-stakes events, these young sailors are set to redefine the boundaries of what’s possible in the sailing world.

Their triumphs not only showcase their individual prowess but also herald a new era of visibility and opportunity for sailing as a sport. With increasing interest and engagement, they stand as motivating figures for aspiring sailors everywhere.