Australia nearly in sight for Jessica Watson

by Jeni Bone on 9 Apr 2010 Solo teen sailor, Jessica Watson is expected to enter Australian waters within the next week. On her most recent video blog, Jessica has been reflecting on her huge achievement.

'I joke about wanting to do a second lap and wanting to do it all again but to be honest I think I am ready to come home now,' she said. 'Love it out here still but I think enough is enough.'

The 16-year-old sailed past the 19,000 nautical mile mark of her round-world journey on Monday. She is now about 700 nautical miles off Cape Leeuwin - the most south-westerly mainland point of Australia.

From there she has to cover about 2000 nautical miles in a straight line to Tasmania, then another 500 nautical miles to Sydney were her family and friends - and thousands of supporters will be waiting.

Jessica mentions that during this down time, she has been doing washing, using her fresh water supplies for bathing and has tried with limited success, to get in to some school work.

'I get it out every now and again, sort of stare at it for a few minutes and then put it away ... I guess you could call that trying.'

Jessica is expected to arrive in Sydney early next month, in time to beat the 'world record' for youngest, solo, unassisted circumnavigation of the world.

Check out her blog, watch the vids or buy a hat at www.jessicawatson.com.au