Around the World in 282 Days

Only little more than a month ago, we celebrated the accomplishment of Zac Sunderland as the world's youngest solo circumnavigator, but today, that title belongs to someone else. After setting sail 282 days ago last November, to travel some 30,000 miles, Mike Perham, 17, crossed the finish line this morning shortly before 10 a.m. at Lizard Point in Cornwall, the southernmost tip of Britain.

The Guinness World Record holder learned to sail at age seven. At 14, he conquered the Atlantic on his own. Like any average modern day teenager, Perham detailed his journey on his blog, Totallymoney.com, coincidentally also the name of his yacht. But this seems to be the only ordinary thing about the charismatic young guy who survived 50 feet waves and gale force winds on free-dried food and 20-minute naps. And, although he had a support team nearby, he said he missed human contact.

In between battling "freak waves" and enjoying the wonder of a group of dolphins 100 large, Mike kept up with his studies, completing coursework designed to fit in with his trip. However, you have to imagine he's experienced some invaluable lessons one could never find in the classroom.

And, while he's not sure what's on the agenda next, he says he has "lots of ideas in mind" as far as his next adventure is concerned. In the meantime, there's likely some serious partying to attend to in Portsmouth this weekend.