In 1965, 16-year-old Robin Lee Graham set sail from California, becoming the youngest person to solo navigate around the world. What started as a bold adventure turned into a 5-year odyssey that captured America’s imagination.
Battling 140-mph winds in the Durban Storm off South Africa’s coast, Graham’s 24-foot sloop was nearly destroyed.
The teenager spent days making repairs while fighting exhaustion and isolation. Yet he persevered, guided by the stars and his sextant across vast stretches of open ocean.
Along his 33,000-mile journey, Graham’s boat was dismasted, he ran out of food and water, and he faced pirates in the Caribbean. Through it all, he maintained detailed journals documenting both the perils and peaceful moments at sea.
His remarkable feat caught worldwide attention. National Geographic chronicled his adventures, millions followed his progress, and his story was later told in the book and film ‘Dove’ – named after his beloved sailboat.
Graham completed his circumnavigation in 1970 at age 21. His journey inspired a generation of young sailors and proved that with courage and determination, extraordinary things are possible.
Sources: National Geographic, The Dove (1974 film), Graham’s personal journals. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK
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ALL I ASK IS A TALL SHIP. Merseyside Mariner Michael Walsh is a beautifully illustrated collection of soul-searing maritime verse. Makes a super gift. The first Edition sold 3,000 + copies. Available from Amazon.
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