Teen sails globe solo

Youngest solo circumnavigator

Last Thursday (16th July), Zac Sunderland sailed back into his native California after his incredible 13-month voyage – sure to be the first of many for this intrepid adventurer.

Despite having no major sponsorship, his attempt was made possible through  dedication and determination. Sunderland made the self-funded trip in a 36-foot sailboat, appropriately named ‘Intrepid’. A few days prior to his return, Sunderland updated his blog, writing:

“I'm still fighting light winds on my way back to Marina del Rey. The weather has warmed up a bit. I guess I have passed out of the cold current I was in. It's been really nice to not be so cold. As I get closer and closer to home it is getting really exciting to be finishing up this year long adventure.”

The passionate young sailor departed Marina Del Rey on June 14th 2008, aged 16. Having dreamt of sailing the world for a year and a half prior to the trip, he surprised his parents by finally going through with it. He spent 18 hours a day preparing his boat, ultimately breaking the record set by Australian Jesse Martin in 1999, aged 18. There have been few attempts by those under 18, and only around 250 solo world sails to date.

To view more information on Zac’s voyage, visit: www.sailzac.com