DOCUMENTARY
Hess Entertainment and Scenery’s Documentary Hummingbird: A Voyage Beyond the Edge
What makes this feat truly remarkable?
Gregory Kennet Were aims to accomplish a record-breaking, single-handed, non-stop, and unassisted circumnavigation on a 20-foot boat —a feat made all the more extraordinary by the size of his vessel, Hummingbird, the smallest boat ever to attempt such a challenge.
His route takes him from Falmouth around the three Great Capes – down to the tip of Africa, across the vast expanse of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, around South America, and back up to Falmouth. The entire voyage is expected to take up to one year.
Greg left Falmouth at 21:04 UK time on 25th July 2024
Hummingbird is not just a documentary; it’s a testament to the power of the human spirit, an exploration of what drives someone to undertake the seemingly impossible, and a poignant reflection on the costs of chasing a dream.
A Test of Will and Spirit—For Greg and His Loved Ones
This journey is not just about physical endurance. It’s a mental and emotional battle as well. The documentary delves deep into the personal toll this adventure takes—not just on Greg but also on his loved ones. We see the strain on his wife, Jannean, who remains in the Netherlands, grappling with the anxiety of waiting and the fear of the unknown. What drives a man to leave everything behind, risking his life and his sanity? And if he survives the treacherous icy oceans and relentless tropical storms, how will he cope with the crushing isolation? Will the solitude drive him to the edge of sanity?
How will this experience be captured?
The documentary captures Greg’s story through cinematically captured scenes and raw, personal footage. A film crew will join Greg at critical junctures, like his departure and return in Cornwall and his passage past the legendary Cape of Good Hope. But for most of the journey, Greg will be alone, documenting his thoughts, fears, and reflections through a diary camera, offering a deeply personal window into his experience.
The Hummingbird will also be equipped with additional cameras to ensure that every moment of this extraordinary journey is recorded. The result will be an immersive, powerful portrayal of one man’s determination to push the limits of human endurance.
“We are all human and we all have dreams. Some are just more dangerous than others. I am a mountain man myself and would never dare sail around the world (let alone in a ship that is not built for it!). But as a filmmaker I’m fascinated by those who choose to get away from the crowd and instead choose adventure and solitude. Because nature always makes for the best antagonist. Greg will constantly be confronted with the unforgiving nature of the sea, especially when rounding Cape Horn – the Everest of the oceans. But ultimately I think Greg’s biggest challenge will be dealing with the loneliness. Because no man is an island.”
Tomas Kaan, Director of the Documentary Hummingbird
Meet “Greg The Sailor”
Gregory Kennet Were
Greg, 33, was born and raised in South Africa and discovered his passion for sailing in 2016. Before sailing, he enjoyed rowing and scuba diving, which fuelled his love for the water. After shifting his career to become a seafarer, Greg acquired extensive knowledge in navigation, fire safety, and medical first aid.
In late 2021, Greg found Hummingbird in disrepair in Port Alfred, South Africa. With dedication, he restored the boat, preparing her for the open seas. Within two months, Hummingbird was seaworthy, and in early January 2022, she set off towards Cape Town along the coast. Once in Cape Town, final adjustments were made to fully prepare for open seas.
In March, Greg departed with a second crew member for the long sail to Rotterdam, where he would travel to his partner, Jannean. This two-man journey included stops in St Helena and Cape Verde. On arrival in Cape Verde, the crew member departed, and Greg continued solo to the Azores and France. For the last part of the journey, he was joined by Jannean, arriving in Rotterdam in September.
At this point, a dream was born. Greg realised he and his boat would be capable of going around the Three Great Capes and could also be the smallest vessel to do this non-stop and unassisted. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to prepare Hummingbird for the challenge, fitting her with all the necessary equipment and supplies.
Outside of sailing, Greg is married to Jannean since May 2024 and they have 2 cats. He enjoys an active lifestyle, including scuba diving, running, and playing chess.
“Of course, this year apart is going to be extremely challenging for our relationship and for each of us, but I am fully supportive of Greg’s adventure and goals and look forward to reuniting at the finish line”
Jannean Were
Greg’s Wife
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