My fight to sail around the world at 14
As a child Laura Dekker fought the courts, faced the world’s media and the possibility of being removed from her parents' care. But she won the right to make a remarkable voyage.
Laura Dekker grew up surrounded by boats in a family of sailing enthusiasts. Her father taught her the ropes early, and by 11 years old she was sailing unaided, going on trips alone for several weeks at a time. In 2009, by the age of 13, Laura decided she was ready to sail around the world — solo. Her parents supported her decision, but the Dutch authorities had concerns; was it responsible to allow a child to circumnavigate the world alone? Today, Laura teaches teenagers to sail and still has adventures on her boat.
Presenter: India Rakusen
Producer: May Cameron
Get in touch: outlook@bbc.com
(Photo: Laura Dekker. Credit: Laura Dekker)
Last on
Broadcasts
- Thu 4 May 202311:06GMTBBC World Service
- Thu 4 May 202317:06GMTBBC World Service except East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa
- Thu 4 May 202321:06GMTBBC World Service East and Southern Africa & West and Central Africa only
- Fri 5 May 202302:06GMTBBC World Service
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