Banjo, many many sailors have found the Tasman, the nastiest bit of water they found in a circumnavigation, so I hope all those who have been holding their collective breath for her, continue to do so, until she sails through the heads.

Just about every long distance sailor, when they finally dock, is desperate for some fresh food. They have had quite enough of tinned, powdered, freeze dried, heat dried, long life or frozen food, for a while.

I hope they have planned the biggest slap up FRESH food dinner for her first night ashore.

hasbeen,
Thanks to you, and others, and Jessica's blog I have learned a bit about yachting, or at least some of the terms, such as reefing, gybing and heeling. Not that I will ever use them, but interesting.

I have also learnt that we have the 'froggies' for immediate neighbours. Fancy that! They own a few islands right in the middle of the south Indian ocean. Fasinating histories as well, being discovered well before Cook did our east coast.

As I write this I expect that Jessica is passing the Bass Strait which could be rough. Jess is the master of understatement as it is rough when she says it is 'bouncy' and she considers it a bit 'breesy' when it blows 40kts.

I did not realize how addictive her blog is and find myself logging on several times a day hoping to get more info.

We are unique,
Jessica's parents may not have had much option but to go along. I suspect that when she first raised the idea, some 5 years ago, they humoured her a bit and told her all that she would have to do to get the experience and ability to do it. Maybe also hoping she would gain other interests. But being determined she persisted and gained the skills and knowledge. Crewed boats being delivered to various places and got her yacht masters ticket, a marine diesel course, a sea and safety course, radio operators course and even a first aid course. She also skippered a boat to NZ and return to visit her Grandparents. Not to mention that she had to convince her sponsors of her abilities. With that sort of determination most parents would give their support. Her quest was not just on a whim.

I think that everything was done to minimize the risks and it appears the preparation was thorough.

I agree Banjo; read Jessica's website every second evening since October. I comprehend as my 15 year old son works on heavy machinery [Bulldozers/Tractors/Backhoes/Loaders] has his boat licence, jet ski, first aid and awaiting his drivers licence in order to obtain his heavy earthmoving licences. The jetskis out of all the activities he undertakes in future would be my main concern [around other people/water traffic]. Snakes in summer he has dealt with from a young age, came to terms with that concern years ago. Seeing my kids is precious as all of our lives are short, yet wonderful for our kids to pack in as many experiences as possible while young.

Dear Banjo,

Thanks for the good news!

I am so relieved that this is ending well.
And I wish Jessica and her family All The
Best in whatever Jessica chooses to do in
the future.

Jessica certainly deserves Congratulating
and heaps of Bravos for the exceptional
journey that she's undertaken that is now
nearing completion. I, like you,
look forward to a tumultous welcome home
for her!

Foxy and Pelican,
I was most relieved when Jessica got around Tassie after the battering she took since the approach to WA. However, as Hasbeen pointed out, it is not over yet as the Tasman sea can turn nasty when it wants to. Last I heard she was battling strong headwinds that could slow her down if they continue.

It doesn't look as though Jessica can escape contraversy, given the latest claims by the World Speed Sailing Racing Council.

As I understand it, there is no official body that will recognize any circumnavigation by persons under 18, so Jessica is not obliged to adhere to any rules but do what she thinks she should. Jess has sailed across the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. Has rounded Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope. Has crossed the equator and is returning to the port from which she started. Her actual distance covered will be in excess of 23000nm and even now has crossed all meridians of longatude. That will do me for sailing around the world.

I think it a bit rich for the WSSRC to now be saying we will not record your voyage, because of age, but we think you should have done so and so. They excluded themselves from any involvement when they ruled on age. Maybe they are trying to get some of the worldwide publicity that Jessica's quest has received or maybe it is sour grapes because they expected her to fail or give up.

But she is one skilled sailor and a strong and determined young lady. Am looking forward to her Sydney arrival which is currently scheduled for May 15.

Thanks Banjo for the thread.

I am thrilled pink for Jessica and her family - and
relieved that she is soon going to be home safe.

I noted the grumps carrying on about the world record -
sheesh. I think there are others trying to cash in on
Jessica's achievement. For example, some dopey fruit
called pink lady apples:

http://www.smh.com.au/national/jessica-watson-sails-into-trademark-storm-20100506-ub8t.html

"The company claims the phrase is subject to trademark and has cautioned the sailor's team against damaging the brand."

and

"He said the company was supportive of the teenager's voyage and had offered free apples for her home-coming party."

Damage the brand?? Pffft.

I hope (but doubt) they also sent their letter of caution about the brand name to anyone profiting from pink lady cocktails; pink lady medicine and pink lady chocolates ... and anything else that uses the term.

Sounds more like someone is grabbing the opportunity for a bit of
free promotion of their product.