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Today in History: Jessica Watson arrives, finishes solo world voyage

5/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

At age 16, Jessica Watson completed a nonstop, unassisted solo sail that began on 18 October 2009 and reached Sydney Harbour on 15 May 2010—just three days before her 17th birthday. Though her route fell about 2,000 nautical miles short of the official 21,600-mile circumnavigation distance, she earned national honors and inspired a film.

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Story summary

At age 16, Jessica Watson completed a nonstop, unassisted solo sail that began on 18 October 2009 and reached Sydney Harbour on 15 May 2010—just three days before her 17th birthday. Though her route fell about 2,000 nautical miles short of the official 21,600-mile circumnavigation distance, she earned national honors and inspired a film.