Jessica Watson arrives unscathed in Sydney

Di Pearson, Yachte

Posted: 5 Oct. 2009

Jessica Watson has arrived in Sydney - Courtesy Mariners Guide

The 16 year-old Queensland teenager aiming to be the world's youngest person to sail non-stop unassisted around the world single-handed arrived quietly in Sydney today and is moored at The Spit at Middle Harbour.

Jessica Watson set sail from the Gold Coast four days ago, encountering 5 metre seas and winds up to 33 knots at times, in a small taste of what is to come.

A month ago, while trying to sail to Sydney in a shake-down, Watson, aboard her yacht Ella's Pink Lady, collided with a cargo ship.

The teenager from the Sunshine Coast in Queensland left on her repaired boat for a second time early last Thursday and arrived with no further incident today.

Speaking with Channel 9 this afternoon, Watsons said: “The first couple of days I was a bit queasy, but I’ll get over it.”

Of her journey to come, Watson said: “I’ll miss people a lot, but I’m looking forward to leaving.”

Channel 9 reports said that the 16 year-old looked “very relieved and tired but happy. She is really confident.”

Watson intends to have a good feed before she leaves on her mammoth around the world voyage. She was not forthcoming on when her start date would be, but is expected to make an announcement in the coming days.

Features