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The Astral Express finds a stunning sun-set - Source: ONE Sport
Kiwi yachtsman, Graeme Kendall, has conquered a world record in solo sailing, having completed the Northwest Passage across the top of Canada and Alaska.
This world first is considered by some to be the 'Everest' of sailing and was one of the last major world sailing records to be tackled.
Kendall entered Lancaster Sound on August 27th and exited Barrow Point on September 9 non-stop in a record 12 days.
Authorities in the region are estimating Kendall's time could also be the fastest recorded, against crewed vessels that have also sailed through the passage.
Kendall first attempted the crossing five years ago, but was held back by significant ice flows blocking the passage. This year the ice conditions were more favourable although there were still a number of vessels that couldn't get through.
The Northwest Passage has only recently become a navigable reality with the aid of satellite technology, which has given sailors the ability to monitor ice flows, and therefore a safe passage during the months of August and September. Warmer Arctic conditions have also contributed to making this milestone achievable.
Kendall is currently sailing the Astral Express through the Bering sea on the purpose-built 12.5 metre yacht, , and plans to continue non-stop to Auckland, aiming to arrive mid-late October.
This journey is the second stage of a major circumnavigation covering 32 of the world's seaways and oceans, the first leg of which covered over 18,000 nautical miles and took over four months of non stop unassisted sailing.
