Sailing Alone: A Surprising History of Isolation and Survival at Sea by Richard J. King
My solo sailing interest started years ago with Maiden Voyage and A Voyage For Madmen. Now, Sailing Alone: A Surprising History of Isolation and Survival at Sea by Richard J. King delivers a fascinating deep dive into the history of solo sailors and the unique psychological and physical challenges they’ve faced throughout time.
You’ll meet figures like Joshua Slocum, the first person to sail alone around the world, and more modern adventurers like Robin Knox-Johnston, who completed the first non-stop solo circumnavigation. King brings these historical figures to life, blending their personal stories with his reflections on solitude, mental endurance, and what it means to be truly alone in the middle of the ocean.
What’s especially interesting about Sailing Alone is King’s exploration of the psychological side of solo sailing. He delves into how isolation affects a sailor’s mental state—how they cope with loneliness, fear, and the endless horizon.
You can’t help but turn from this book with a deeper appreciation for both the power of the ocean and the strength of those who dare to face it alone.
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