Jessica Watsonsolo circumnavigationcargo ship collisionteenage sailorAustralian sailor
Teenage Sailor Jessica Watson Completes Solo Circumnavigation After Cargo Ship Collision
Published: May 11, 2026
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Jessica Watson, a 16-year-old Australian sailor, collided with a 63,000-ton bulk carrier on the first night of a sea trial before her historic voyage, destroying her yacht's mast and leaving the boat badly damaged. The incident occurred before she officially started her solo journey around the world, raising questions about her inexperience and the safety of teenage sailors attempting world records.
Watson quietly repaired her yacht and prepared to sail again, and on October 2009, she departed from Sydney to sail solo, non-stop, and unassisted around the world before turning 17 years old.
Her route took her across four oceans and through harsh waters, including the Southern Ocean, known for violent storms and massive waves.
After 210 days alone at sea, Watson returned to Sydney Harbour on May 15, 2010, becoming the youngest person at the time to complete a solo, non-stop, unassisted circumnavigation of the globe. The Australian government and sailing community are expected to review and respond to Watson's achievement in the coming weeks.