Column-Logbook for the Algemeen Dagblad
May 26, 2011
Translation for Zeilmeisje Laura Dekker on Facebook
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Each week in her column-logbook for the Algemeen Dagblad Laura Dekker will relate her journey around the world aboard her sailboat Guppy on her attempt to become the world's youngest circumnavigator.
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An island for the gods


Yes! In 17 days and 22 hours I sailed just about 3000 nautical miles and I am close to land again. The Pacific Ocean crossing is the largest one I have done so far and I have achieved another record: I am the youngest solo sailor ever to do this. And it has been my very best crossing too. The distance from the Cape Verde Islands to Sint Maartin was just 2000 nautical miles and it also took 17 days. I still don't really understand how I managed to be so fast. Some of the sailing ships that departed a few days ahead of me have still not arrived yet. And my last days at sea I have had very bad rainy weather with squalls and strong winds and waves washing over. It is still raining continuously here in Hiva Oa bay in Atuona Island where I am at anchor now. Perhaps this has something to do with the mountains all around me with there peaks ending somewhere above the clouds. When it starts raining here it is a real downpour and the clouds stay for quite some time....It is very strange to see land again after two and a half weeks at sea... Hiva Oa looks beautiful. According to a local legend some gods created this island for themselves to live in. The French chansonnier Jaques Brel and painter Paul Gaugin are buried here. But I haven't been out to explore the island yet. Up to now all I did was to look around Guppy once to see how much work is waiting for me when I'll dive under her hull to remove the thick layer of algaes and snails. But first I will catch up on some sleep before I go and meet with people. I still have no idea how long I will stay here. A few days, or maybe a week. Anyway I can take it easy for now!

Regards,
Laura