A 24-Year-Old Japanese Completes Solo Voyage Around the World
Nishinomiya, Hyogo Pref. –
Hirotsugu Kimura, a 24-year-old company employee, has set a remarkable record by becoming the youngest Japanese to complete a solo voyage around the world on a sailboat without making any port calls or receiving supplies.
Kimura, hailing from Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, achieved this incredible feat at the age of 24 years and 9 months, breaking a 30-year-old record previously held by Kojiro Shiraishi. His journey spanned approximately 230 days and concluded at a harbor in Nishinomiya where he was welcomed by a crowd of 100 people.
Embarking on his adventure in October 2023, Kimura navigated through challenging waters, passing the southern tips of South America and Africa before crossing the finish line in the Kii Channel off Wakayama Prefecture. This successful expedition marked his second attempt, the first being disrupted by a storm in November 2022.
Inspired by marine adventurer Shiraishi, Kimura’s journey reflects his childhood dream of sailing around the world, which he pursued with unwavering determination. His triumphant return was celebrated with a sense of fulfillment and pride in his accomplishment.