The 38-year-old Swiss skipper Etienne Messikommer, – a graphic designer, globetrotter and adventurer – has known PanEco since his youth. His father, who operates on injured animals for our Sumatra Orangutan Conservation Programme, has always shared his commitment and passion for the endangered orangutans with his four children. This sparked a desire in Etienne from an early age to contribute to nature and society in his own way. He wants to use the global attention for the Golden Globe Race (GGR) to raise awareness of the need to protect orangutans on Sumatra.

“The fact that I am representing an organisation that has been committed to nature conservation for 30 years gives my adventure enormous significance.”

Etienne Messikommer
Skipper, Golden Globe Race 2026

«Sailing solo round the world means being truly alone»

On 6 September 2026, the starting signal will be given in Les Sables d’Olonnes on the French Atlantic coast for the round-the-world sailing race. The challenge is to sail 30,000 nautical miles on your own, using only traditional navigation methods, without any modern technical aids on board and without ever going ashore during the 200 to 300-day race.

Although Etienne grew up in Vevey on Lake Geneva, he only discovered sailing at the age of 27 in New Zealand. He signed on to a sailing boat at the time and was immediately hooked. He has dedicated his life to his passion ever since. In 2018, he took part in the Mini Globe 5.80 Transat – and won the race across the Atlantic! This success opened many doors for him, including to the GGR. He has been preparing for the upcoming adventure for over a year. He fitted out the boat himself and finally gave it a fresh coat of paint. And now the sail is set. Right at the top: an orangutan illustration by the artist Petra Rappo and the PanEco logo!

»The biggest challenge will be being on my own for so long.»

As for the five most important items Etienne is taking with him on his journey, and how he is preparing, we’ll just say this much: he’s packing a few mixed tapes with the perfect soundtrack for every mood. We’ll be providing regular updates on his adventures on our dedicated landing page. The link will be available from 14 July.

Be part of this journey!

Together, we aim to raise 30,000 Swiss francs for 30,000 nautical miles. Every franc donated goes directly towards protecting orangutans and their habitat. With your support, every nautical mile becomes a symbol of hope and helps to secure a future for the last remaining orangutans.
Get involved today: you will be helping the orangutans and motivating our brave skipper at the same time!