**World Champion Surfer John John Florence Embarks on an Ocean Adventure with Family**
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John John Florence, a celebrated three-time world champion and two-time Olympic surfer, recently discussed his decision to step away from competition in order to embark on an extraordinary sailing journey around the globe. This off-grid adventure is captured in his new six-episode series, titled “Vela,” which highlights his exploration of the seas alongside his wife, Lauryn Cribb, and their young son, Darwin.
Florence, now 33, took a hiatus from the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour nearly two years ago. Just after clinching his third championship title in September 2024 and welcoming the birth of his son in May, he chose to pursue time spent with his family instead of competitive surfing. Speaking with PEOPLE, he reflected on this pivotal decision, revealing that life as a father prompted a shift in his focus away from competition.
Born and raised on the picturesque North Shore of O’ahu, Florence has always felt a profound connection to nature. Sailing has been a longstanding passion, and his desire to set sail on a global adventure was finally realised. He, along with his brothers Nathan and Ivan, set off in 2025 on a nearly year-long journey that saw them traversing from New Zealand to Fiji, and onwards to Banaba and Australia.
In his exclusive interview, Florence elaborated on his off-grid travels. He noted, “Our stint was March through November essentially on the boat. It was a most-of-the-year thing,” reflecting on the vast experiences they accumulated during their time at sea. He continues to navigate the waters and parenthood while also examining the similarities between sailing and competing in surfing competitions.
Describing his experience from the Caribbean, where he was speaking via Zoom, he contrasted life on the water with the pressures of competition. “Every day we’re together in whatever we’re doing, so I feel like that was a big reason why this felt so good,” he said. He maintained that the challenges he faced during his expedition were akin to those encountered in competitive settings but with the added joy of sharing the experience with his family.
Florence’s ocean journey was not without its trials. One particularly harrowing leg of their trip from New Zealand to Fiji proved more difficult than anticipated, especially without his family aboard. He recounted the fear of navigating through tumultuous waters, stating, “You’re like 600 miles from the closest piece of land, and so you just feel very committed to what you’re doing.”
This extended hiatus allowed Florence to re-evaluate his passion for surfing. “I don’t think I fell out of love with surfing. It was more that my focus on surfing had changed so much to competing,” he stated, acknowledging that the intensity of competitive life had overshadowed his enjoyment of the sport. He admitted that while he initially planned to return to competition, the thrill and fulfilment he experienced while sailing shifted his perspective.
As Florence contemplates his future, he remains open to the possibility of competing again. Nevertheless, he is taking it one year at a time, wishing to fully embrace each moment with his family while considering his place in competitive surfing. As the 2028 Summer Olympics approach, he is weighing his options regarding participation but has made it clear that he will only return to competition if it feels right.
While the appeal of a gold medal lingers, Florence is cautious about rushing back into the competitive arena simply for the sake of competition. He conveyed his desire to ensure that any return would be driven by a strong sense of purpose and personal fulfilment rather than external expectations.
When asked if he missed the competitive life, he shared a nuanced perspective. “I miss parts of it,” he conceded, appreciating the clarity and focus that comes with competition, yet he is also relishing the freedom that the current phase of his life offers. Florence stated, “I want to take advantage of this while I’m young. I feel like we just have one life and it feels pretty short.”
Through his experience over the past two years, Florence has not only deepened his bond with his family but has also explored his creative side. Balancing these dimensions of his life as he considers the future highlights his determination to cherish every moment, both in the water and on land. Through “Vela,” he invites viewers to join him on this remarkable journey – a testament to his unwavering passion for the ocean and the love of his family.