Sailing with Douglas Jacobsson

Sailing, resilience, and offshore freedom with Douglas Jacobsson.

Few people embody the spirit of offshore adventure quite like Douglas Jacobsson. A lifelong sailor from the Swedish west coast, he has balanced grassroots beginnings with experiences at the very pinnacle of world sailing. From island-hopping as a child to racing in 50-knot gales, Douglas has built a life defined by wind, water, and resilience.

Early Lessons on the Archipelago

Douglas’ first memories of sailing are with his father, navigating the intricate channels and rocky islands of Sweden’s west coast. Those formative moments taught him how to read sea charts, how the wind moves between land and sea, and how to rely on instinct and preparation, skills that remain the foundation of his sailing today.

The Unforgettable America’s Cup Comeback

When asked about his most unforgettable sailing experience, Douglas doesn’t hesitate: the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Challenger Playoffs in 2017. Serving as shore crew for Artemis Racing, he witnessed first-hand the intensity of world-class competition.

“We were down 3–1 against SoftBank Japan in the semi-final,” he recalls, “but managed to turn it around and win 5–3. To be part of such a team and witness that comeback live was unforgettable.”

Enduring 50-Knot Gusts at Gotland Runt

Not every memory comes from calm waters. In the 2024 Gotland Runt, Douglas faced one of his toughest challenges: a night offshore in 50-knot gusts, torrential rain, and heavy swell. Sail changes on the bow were punishing, but teamwork and kit made the difference.

“Thanks to smart teamwork - and my Henri-Lloyd foul-weather gear keeping me dry and warm - we pushed through,” he says. Their efforts paid off, finishing 5th out of 200 boats.

The Gear That Never Leaves His Side

For Douglas, preparation isn’t complete without his Men’s Elite Offshore Hi-Fit Salopette. With weather-sealed protection, durability, and the practicality of pockets always stocked with essentials, it’s his go-to piece of kit. “I also never sail without a beanie or cap,” he adds. “Keeping your head warm makes all the difference.”

Freedom Beyond the Sea

When he’s not offshore, Douglas finds the same sense of freedom in the snowy mountains or along rugged trails. “If I weren’t a sailor, I’d be a professional freeride skier or an ultrarunner,” he says. “The feeling of being in raw nature, focused and free, is just like being at sea. It’s addictive.”