Born on a boat, Laura Dekker fell in love with sailing at a very young age. In her talk she discusses her adventures in sailing and being the youngest circumnavigator to sail alone around the world.
When I was her age, and on through my 20's, I was obsessed with the idea of sailing alone around the world. I would spend all of my days reading every account of anyone who had done it, and tons and tons of books about sailing. But I never took the initiative to turn that obsession into reality, and so it just stayed there, haunting me. Now, at 70, it's one of my biggest regrets, and I honestly believe that it would be better for a person to pursue their dreams, even if they die while doing it, then to opt for a "safe" life. It is true that regrets are seldom about what we do, and almost always about what we don't do!
Woah, when you said that you are 70, you struck me with your words sir. Being alone in the middle of nothing but all water is sound so surreal to me, i want to feel it so bad, my chances are not good but i hope one day i can do it, i wrote it to my bucket list.
@Jeb may i ask why you feel your chances aren't good? I'm battling a horrible drug addiction, I'm homeless and living in a hostel and the only trade i have is I'm a very experienced guitarist and can teach guitar. I have a three year plan to get a little boat and see the world. I am determined even if things including Brexit go against me
Laura Dekker was the youngest person to circumnavigate the world with stops. But Jessica Watson was the youngest person to circumnavigate the world non stop at 16. A great achievement by both Women.
@@walleroutdoors6643 If you start in the northern hemisphere, sail to the southern ocean, sail around Antarctica and return north you will have traveled farther than the circumference of Earth. That route is a standard measure for a class of circumnavigation records. There are records for the "long way" too, but that takes multiple years in smaller boats and is less consistent and less competitively pursued.
@Eric P. Writer from what I understand, she couldn't get in the record books any way because she was too young. Ironic. Bottom line: I personally don't care what the wssrc says. The kid left Sydney, crossed the equator in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and made it back to Sydney. Went around both continental southern capes... The old fashioned way, just like my grandpappy did it. She was freaking 16 and spent 210 days going around the globe in a little boat. Props to that girl, full stop. And props to this girl, too.
I love this young lady! At 13 I was hitch hiking around the UK solo. At 14 I bought my first boat from my paper round and canoe-camped for weeks with my younger brother down British rivers. By the age of 16 I was hitch hiking solo around Europe.. and so it went on: by 23 I was trekking solo through the mountains of Papua New Guinea... and so it went on and on: last year I drove right around Ghana..I'm 66 now and I don't give up. But this girl is seriously outstanding: so brave and amazing: I salute her!!
I thought it was a tough audience. This brave young girl is speaking in a second language about a fantastic achievement beyond the comprehension of the majority, I feel that they might have warmed to her more. She is a sailor speaking in public not a public speaker talking about sailing. That said what a fantastic and positive human being truly inspirational hat's off to her.
I thought the same about the crowd. It was just blah while she spoke about an incredible adventure most would never do in their life time. Granted she wasn't perfect but she inserted personality & put in an effort.
There was too much glee and an air of cockiness you can't be proud of that. She's young and is talking like she knows it all. but us who are older know the pains of life not always getting what you want and she hasn't faced that yet. There was something very distasteful about her maybe it was her bragging.
Wisdom Player She talked much better than most persons... Most talks I had to hold (which luckily weren't many so far) where way worse and honestly I didn't see that much bragging. I was a very successful sailor (at least at the local races) during my youth and probably the audience also saw some bragging...
@Wisdom Player. I thought she was very modest about a HUGE accomplishment, at an incredibly young age, that most have never even fathomed much less seriously considered. I doubt the majority of the audience comprehends the vast distances that she sailed. How could you comprehend it if most of your life is spent working in a building or worse, a cubicle within a building and only occasionally traveling to the local lake or river. It's simply beyond their understanding. But, I'm sure there were a few old salts setting in the audience.
@@wisdomplayer671 -- What bragging? She just quietly described what she saw while she SAILED AROUND THE WORLD unassisted ! That's not bragging . That's just a FACT. She obviously knows about not getting what you want -- she sailed AROUND THE WORLD (if that hasn't sunk in to your head yet) -- she's faced all kinds of harsh and adverse conditions, living out of a boat on hard , dangerous, and windless seas for a YEAR. If you feel intimidated by a FACT, I think you are just bitter (which is a product of your personality, not your age). It's a great achievement. She is very humble about it. I would be bragging my bum off .
This girl...She grabbed life and ran with it! Most of us grew up going to a school teaching us to be a good citizen, how to fit the mold, to be productive, to get a house, a car, a mortgage on all of it, not to think out of the box. This girl never had that, no one told here what she couldn't do.
She did more for herself with that, than spending 4 years on high school and another 4 on the university. Not to mention spending 100k for education aswell. Good job, I'm proud.
I think shapka was referring to American Universities. It's ridiculously expensive and most kids come out with a lot less intelligence than going in. Experiencing the world and hardships and just making your way through life is a wonderful way to educate yourself. Not sitting in a classroom getting some liberal professors view or reading about other cultures and countries. She is experiencing it first hand and by this video becoming a better person for it.
Thanks for your answer, I knew about the high costs in America before, I was just confused with the 100K Tom mentioned and replied to him with what Laura did in mind. I admit: Expressed myself bit twisted.
palomino73 - it's all good. I was actually explaining to Tom about the 100k Shapka mentioned. We all agree this young lady is phenomenal and that's what matters most.
Laura,i have no words... I left my family when i was 15 and went to Africa on my own. My parents were born there,i heard so many stories,i wanted to see it. Ended up staying for 4 years. Changed my life for sure... I love the sea, and love sailing... You are amazing... ( To make a long story short).... Like a boss... Respect to you....
Awesome! It shows, that whoever taught her about sailing, also taught her about life...her dad, and mom. This is about essentials, and being confident enough, just not overconfident. I wish her a good life.
The wonderful product when parents support their children's dreams instead of holding them back for safety's sake. Quite a young woman, the world needs more people like her.
Incredible! 14 years old! I get nervous being on a raft too far off the beach! I just can’t fathom this journey! “You’re in a storm and there is no way out so you just sail through it!” Great analogy for life.
Laura, you are surely one of the very strong persons on this planet. As a sailor with 40+ years of experienceI I can tell. I have 4 kids who I carefully involve in sailing; may they gain some of your strength. Thank you for sharing your experience! Blessings to you and to your future projects!
Laura had me at 'working at 8 years old' to go after her dream. If she'd merely sailed the English Channel, she would still be so inspiring for children young and old. Bless those around her for empowering her and not dissuading her from going after her dreams.
Wow! I have always dreamed of sailing around the world. Yet, at 42, I have never been sailing. I have so much respect for this girl. You are truly an inspiration to the young and old!!!!
What an exceptional person! A beautiful soul packed in an equally beautiful "box"; what a nice combo. If someone describes her as "naive" he/she is damn wrong 'cause this girl is not. She's only innocent and my hope is that she'll preserve this quality for the rest of her life. Pay attention to what she choose to mention (at least twice) out of her extraordinary adventure: not the crazy idea of navigating alone around the world (especially at 15-16 years old - a thing which few of us would ever consider at 30 or 40), not the storms, nor the many desperate situations, but the generosity of those islanders whom had pretty much nothing and still shared whatever little they had with her. Wow! Good luck and Godspeed
+GorillaProduction38 I totally agree with you. She keeps up the same official website (lauradekker.nl/English/Home.html) she started before her "trip". She's married now and she still has "Guppy". It has been for sale for a while now because she wants a bigger boat.
+John Beasley I don't know the price but she told she's very careful to whom she sells her boat. If you're serious about it you can actually contact her on the website I mentioned, and choose "Guestbook".
Absolutely Amazing young woman. She is brave. And, I agree with another comment, the audience didn't help her by warming up to her even after she told them she was afraid up there speaking more than sailing around the world. Oh Well! Thank you for this wonderful, exciting video. She is one special young woman.
I share this video monthly to my resident at the hospital to inspire them to greatness. The dedication to the dream is evident in your journey. Very few can do this and we are all amazed.
Whoever hasn't seen her documentary where she set sail.. Should watch it, it's extremely mind blowing and inspiring.. I love this girl, now she is all grown up to a amazing wonderful beautiful woman with such humbleness , who is married now but still adventures..
Laura, You are a very courageous young lady, and absolutely awesome person. If only there were more people like you in this world. Don’t worry about the future Laura, you find your way in this world. The ocean and life has tough you a lot and you are and will be an inspiration to many people of all ages. I personally had found your story very inspiring.
What an incredible young lady telling her unbelievable solo journey around the world in a VERY small sailboat. Kudos to you Laura, may all the winds blow fair for you on your continuing adventures through life and, if they don't, I'm positive you will be up to the challenge with your obvious creativity and tenacity!
This is the most amazing and inspiring thing I have ever seen. So much courage, so much intelligence, so much love. And perhaps above all sheer perseverance in the face of all sorts of challenges. Here is a person of exceptional worth to all of us
I started sailing seven years ago. Three years ago my vitiligo set in and I began to get sunburns really easily. I started to appreciate shitty weather a lot more and improved my sailing quite a bit.
Such a VERYSTRONG fresh heart to be alone in storms and bad weather. Thumps up and proud of you. I used to be a captain on merchant vessels and understand well the conditions of the ocean, but never sail alone like you. You break record in that very young age. You did it! VERY PROUD OF YOU!
Just beyond amazing, impressive, and inspiring. What an ambassador for humanity and youth.I wish nothing but the very best for this young , extraordinary lady.
What a pleasure it is listening to this beautiful young lady "share" her thoughts and experiences of realizing her dream of sailing around the world. Will all teachers and students please report to the auditorium for a must- see presentation on inspiration. When she spoke of the people that shared with her what little they had, I had my kids come down and listen to that. Just to help reinforce the importance of gratitude; being satisfied with what you have and not constantly asking for more.
Laura your an inspiration,you have lived life they way you wanted . I'm sitting on my little sail boat at 50 years of age wishing I had your courage, best wishes Andy
to have very little and so freely and happily give it away, that is a far much more beautiful thing then collecting the greatest amount of money and saving it and keeping it from everyone else. Two totally different people. Thanks laura
I only have grandsons right now, but you better believe they’re gonna hear this story. And, when I’m blessed with granddaughters, they’re DEFINITELY going to hear this story. Remarkable young woman.
I meet Laura and her partner in Whangarei, NZ - they were on a boat here, no surprise. There is always more to the picture, but the picture that needs to be painted clearly is that young people need to have the opportunity for adventure and excitement. In Laura's case she was fortunate her father was into sailing, so no co-incidence there. But it does not have to be sailing... there are other young people doing amazing things. I meet a guy who had walked the entire coast of the North and South Island's on NZ (I think it took him about a year?).. getting by as he could. As for the court case to try and stop her, well the World is full of (arrogant) "do gooders", all trying to make out they are doing "it" for the other person when that is nuts as all humans only do anything if there is a "pay off" to themselves - and the "pay off" to these do gooders is that people doing what Laura is doing does not fit their limited World view, so they blow a gasket... you can assume they never had an ounce of adventure in their lives, and look what they turn into. These same "do gooders" will also be the ones who run around blaming drugs and drug dealers, having "wars on drugs" and wondering what happened. Well if you stifle a young persons creativity and sense of adventure guess where they might find it ?... whilst adventure may carry risk, there is also the risk of not pursuing goals and dreams.. but that is never talked about... so if you are a younger (or even an older) person and have a dream, go for it, and you just have to accept that everything in life is a risk.. I am 63 and not putting my feet up for sure...
Laura is such a winner. She really is inspiring....I didn't think I could see this in young people any more. I wish I could thank her. Thank you, Laura.
I saw a picture of her when she wasn't aware of the photographer probably ...the look in her eyes and face was simply gladiator steel. The Ocean is....not anything I would ever take on one to one. And I don't have any fear of what walks the earth....man or beast so respect this young person.
Truly inspirational young woman. Good for her! More of us should follow our dreams and be happier with less. Kudos to those parents too, for having the strength and fortitude to encourage Laura in fulfilling her dream. I like that her father taught her everything he could about the boat and the systems onboard, so she was well-equipped to handle every challenge. Her strength, courage, and attitude is the stuff of heroes!
All the special conditions where united in her upbringing to make this possible but that was not enough. She still had to be a special kid with a uniquely driven mind and free spirit to pull this off. Her winning sailing competitions at a young age was probably a strong indication of a gifted kid but still: how many parents would let their 14 years old alone to the oceans? Unique and crazy family for the adventure of a lifetime.
They need to show this kind of thing to more young kids in school. These kinds of stories should be everywhere in the media! LIVE life. Soooo many people on cell phones these days and worried about status and material things.
Thumbs-Up #3.8K-PLUS I AM, Tuesday evening 26 June 2018! If I had been in that audience I would have given her a standing ovation! SHE is what youth is about! She is what discovery is about! SHE is amazing! Her parents need to be asked for a lengthy interview.
No one knows where such intelligence comes from, but it is this young women's spirit that drove her to complete her goal. To circumnavigate the world. Her journey, I imagine, began when she started using her imagination. Then came the dreams. Followed by reality. The reality of doing something so utterly amazing, even now, it's hard to comprehend. Its one thing to sail into danger because you have no choice, but to do so on purpose........amazing. I respect this young lady. For she represents what humanity ought to be about. She took a dream, turned it into reality and went with it. Along her journey, she learned more in one year at sea, then any 4 year institution could have taught her. Her love for life just brings tears to my eyes. Her soul is connected to the oceans which belong to God. That connection is forever. The people she encountered were amazing. Kind, thoughtful, decent. You can't learn that in a 4 year institution. Then, of course, their is her excellent grasp of sailing. A true art in its purest form. One must work with the seas, the winds, life on and in the seas. Navigational skills aside, at 14, most young girls are worrying about what to wear at a dance, she excelled at navigation. Yes, she had some modern technologies, to assist her, but she did this alone, completely and utterly alone. 14 year old kids aren't supposed to be able to do such things, but Laura Dekker did. We are blessed to have such a beautiful, intelligent, young person in our midst. She reminds all of us that: No matter how crazy, how big, how difficult your dreams are, they're your dreams and no one can take them from you. *what the sea hath taken, the sea shall give back* ⛵ JR
Not sure you will read this? I have been inspired to show this to my 7 Granddaughters because I have been telling them to open their minds to all the possibilities to this great world. You are so awesome and I know you have heard that so many times but you have changed my life and how i will relate to my Granddaughters that I need to inspire. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAKING THIS. best to you in your life !!
Thumbs up thumbs up for this young lady I live on my sailboat got the bug myself in San Francisco but my wife didn't like sailing either now I got the dog and the boat I wish I was back in my thirties but now 66 I know how hard it can be I have had several men and women who say they can do it BUT WHEN THE STUFF HITS THE FAN they off i try to tell them you can't do that you' have to stick it out this young lady nerve and fortitude a major endurance self-driving self-determination young people anymore I sent back and tip my hat parents should be very proud
I remember reading about her legal battles prior to her big voyage. Glad she was able to go! I often wonder after someone accomplishes something quite incredible at a young age if they have trouble finding fulfillment in lesser things. Very cool story, and I certainly hope she continues to live an exciting and rewarding life.
Srry for the late reply, its been like this for centuries ... its only recent that we see 16year old as kids that cant accomplice anything.... She now belongs to this list! www.ranker.com/list/famous-teenage-accomplishments/matthewcoleweiss together with the likes of Nadia Comaneci, Jordan Romero and Alexander the Great
@@rogerstone3068 Stormy weather... It's repeating life patterns is what it is; recapitulations. Without analysing too much her personal life or the personal life of her parents, whom I know nothing and have read very little about - having only just discovered this video and her 14-year old life story; it could be said that she walked into the same situation, really, that her mother or father did. From what she said in this video, her mother wasn't so keen on sailing, it wasn't calling her, whilst her father very much was, and it's in his blood. That's a certain type of person and personality and it's not always easy for those who don't feel that way, that intensely, towards the sea and life at sea. Maybe it had nothing to do with that - the reason for her parents' divorce - but it's interesting that Laura also married at a young age someone who didn't want this life for himself or for her and who was directly opposed to the lifestyle and all of the things that go with it, and that she should then divorce. She is now, from what I've read, with a young man who has had a similar life path, sailing from a young age, sailing on the same type of boat, and so the two of them see eye to eye and enjoy sharing in their passion together. Sounds like a good match. They have a son. And may they continue to enjoy their shared happiness for as long as it should last.
When you are well trained, you know your equipment inside out and you know what to do when all hell breaks loose, you are ready. Laura Dekker is such a person.
I was following along as best I could during her trip. When she lost her mast I was afraid it was over. So glad that didn't stop her. I was in my 50s and had a 15 year old hero. Inspiration can come from any direction!
Admirable,mind blowing,astonishing ... was coming to my mind,as I was listening to her ! Auf deutsch : Überwältigend und bewundernswert was Laura Dekker in so einem jungen Alter erlebt und erreicht hat - absolut beneidenswert ! - Was für eine tolle junge Frau !!!
while this is a rather old video, and it is highly unlikely Laura would ever see this comment. Laura, you are an incredible young lady (I realize you are now in your mid 20s now, but I have a couple decades on you :P) I say this not for your accomplishments, they are amazing unto themselves, but rather you are amazing for your drive.
wow ! Great story, I don't think many truly know what an accomplishment this really is. 1 year sailing solo around the world in a boat that small, truly amazing!
as brave as she is beautiful , born of great parents who thought outside the box , understanding the importance of experiencing freedom and adventure , best done while young .
She's so amazing. Gorgeous, brilliant, and so emotionally healthy. She and her parents should co-author a book on parenting. Very few people her age are so independent and emotionally well differentiated. Using the Dutch legal system to establish her formal independence must've taken so much courage and drive. She just didn't believe the word "no" had any meaning in her life. What an absolutely incredible blueprint for any young person seeking similar goals. She's just incredible!
Jonathan Becker Laura is Dutch and grew up with Dutch parents. There are many books about Dutch parenting. Dutch children are the happiest children on earth for a reason. Just look at his girl. Could this have een possible in any other country than The Netherlands? I think not.
Have just watched Sailing Doodles channel and Laura has donated her yacht Guppy to a charitable organisation in the states that helps people learn about sailing and boatbuilding,etc. Awesome Laura Decker.
I really love her story and the way she presented is great, I am a sailor in Miami, ¨Coastal sail¨still, Laura has inspired me to start preparing to start a Caibbean trip at least.
What a tough, boring crowd :( Laura is a wonderful girl and all those 'grown ups' could have been so much kinder and generous to this fantastic young lady. I am also a solo sailor, also hired to give talks in events but mostly multinationals. And I think I know what happened here.... Adults are suddenly confronted with the dreams they didn't live, with the goals they gave up on, with a life they haven't really lived. And it only takes a dreamer whos dreams have come true to generate that uncomfortable feeling inside. I sometimes get a hint of that from my crowds when they hear my story, but I work around that in a way that hopefully empowers people not to quit, regardless of what they have been through, however old they may be. Well done Laura!
What an amazing young lady. Very inspiring. My second time watching and I was still awed by this extraordinary young girl who let nothing stand in her way. Rock on girl. You will change the world!!
Wow. One of the most interesting videos I've seen. And this from an adventureous teen girl who is a great story teller. My compliments to her parents for raising an exceptional daughter and one of the guttiest and intelligent teen girl I've seen. Not to mention how pretty she is.
One of a kind brave young girl on high seas, great achievement and with superb navigational expertise all alone by herself. She should have received a title from the World Guiness Record for this!
I just want to Thank You for sharing your story Laura. How absolutely amazing! I feel like I can be a little more brave now. I really needed that today :)
Amazing job sailor! I an very proud of your accomplishments, and would like to commend your parents for having bestowed great knowledge upon you. You are the salt of the earth. Continue to be fearless, my thoughts are with you.
When I was her age, and on through my 20's, I was obsessed with the idea of sailing alone around the world. I would spend all of my days reading every account of anyone who had done it, and tons and tons of books about sailing. But I never took the initiative to turn that obsession into reality, and so it just stayed there, haunting me.
Now, at 70, it's one of my biggest regrets, and I honestly believe that it would be better for a person to pursue their dreams, even if they die while doing it, then to opt for a "safe" life. It is true that regrets are seldom about what we do, and almost always about what we don't do!
Dennis Wade I needed to hear this, thank you kindly Dennis :)
So true, brother.
Woah, when you said that you are 70, you struck me with your words sir. Being alone in the middle of nothing but all water is sound so surreal to me, i want to feel it so bad, my chances are not good but i hope one day i can do it, i wrote it to my bucket list.
thats me right now!!! mapping it and obsessing but will i ever go
@Jeb may i ask why you feel your chances aren't good? I'm battling a horrible drug addiction, I'm homeless and living in a hostel and the only trade i have is I'm a very experienced guitarist and can teach guitar. I have a three year plan to get a little boat and see the world. I am determined even if things including Brexit go against me
Laura Dekker was the youngest person to circumnavigate the world with stops. But Jessica Watson was the youngest person to circumnavigate the world non stop at 16. A great achievement by both Women.
didn't Jessica Watson only sail the southern hemisphere?
@@walleroutdoors6643 If you start in the northern hemisphere, sail to the southern ocean, sail around Antarctica and return north you will have traveled farther than the circumference of Earth. That route is a standard measure for a class of circumnavigation records. There are records for the "long way" too, but that takes multiple years in smaller boats and is less consistent and less competitively pursued.
@@JDHogg ..She left from sidney....
@@walleroutdoors6643 Jessica crossed the equator. The crossing was carried out near Kiritimati.
@Eric P. Writer from what I understand, she couldn't get in the record books any way because she was too young. Ironic. Bottom line: I personally don't care what the wssrc says. The kid left Sydney, crossed the equator in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and made it back to Sydney. Went around both continental southern capes... The old fashioned way, just like my grandpappy did it. She was freaking 16 and spent 210 days going around the globe in a little boat. Props to that girl, full stop. And props to this girl, too.
Her parents may be crazy but they raised one hell of a great daughter !
I love this young lady!
At 13 I was hitch hiking around the UK solo.
At 14 I bought my first boat from my paper round and canoe-camped for weeks with my younger brother down British rivers.
By the age of 16 I was hitch hiking solo around Europe.. and so it went on: by 23 I was trekking solo through the mountains of Papua New Guinea...
and so it went on and on: last year I drove right around Ghana..I'm 66 now and I don't give up.
But this girl is seriously outstanding: so brave and amazing: I salute her!!
Rob Kay good on ya sir . It would be nice to have a beer with ya and hear your amazing experience.
l experiences! THough the hitch-hiking part is perhaps a critical point these days.
I thought it was a tough audience. This brave young girl is speaking in a second language about a fantastic achievement beyond the comprehension of the majority, I feel that they might have warmed to her more.
She is a sailor speaking in public not a public speaker talking about sailing.
That said what a fantastic and positive human being truly inspirational hat's off to her.
I thought the same about the crowd. It was just blah while she spoke about an incredible adventure most would never do in their life time. Granted she wasn't perfect but she inserted personality & put in an effort.
There was too much glee and an air of cockiness you can't be proud of that. She's young and is talking like she knows it all. but us who are older know the pains of life not always getting what you want and she hasn't faced that yet. There was something very distasteful about her maybe it was her bragging.
Wisdom Player
She talked much better than most persons...
Most talks I had to hold (which luckily weren't many so far) where way worse and honestly I didn't see that much bragging. I was a very successful sailor (at least at the local races) during my youth and probably the audience also saw some bragging...
@Wisdom Player. I thought she was very modest about a HUGE accomplishment, at an incredibly young age, that most have never even fathomed much less seriously considered. I doubt the majority of the audience comprehends the vast distances that she sailed. How could you comprehend it if most of your life is spent working in a building or worse, a cubicle within a building and only occasionally traveling to the local lake or river. It's simply beyond their understanding. But, I'm sure there were a few old salts setting in the audience.
@@wisdomplayer671 -- What bragging? She just quietly described what she saw while she SAILED AROUND THE WORLD unassisted ! That's not bragging . That's just a FACT.
She obviously knows about not getting what you want -- she sailed AROUND THE WORLD (if that hasn't sunk in to your head yet) -- she's faced all kinds of harsh and adverse conditions, living out of a boat on hard , dangerous, and windless seas for a YEAR.
If you feel intimidated by a FACT, I think you are just bitter (which is a product of your personality, not your age).
It's a great achievement.
She is very humble about it.
I would be bragging my bum off .
Excellent video. We need more women like her and a lot fewer kardashian's
Exactly, this is the kind of women I want my daughter to look up to.
Amen to that and I'm not even religious.
We need to encourage more young people to pursue their dreams, shes a great role model for anyone.
Correction : Zero Kardashians.
Nomad 4Life agreed
This girl...She grabbed life and ran with it!
Most of us grew up going to a school teaching us to be a good citizen, how to fit the mold, to be productive, to get a house, a car, a mortgage on all of it, not to think out of the box. This girl never had that, no one told here what she couldn't do.
Did you get your boat?
She did more for herself with that, than spending 4 years on high school and another 4 on the university. Not to mention spending 100k for education aswell. Good job, I'm proud.
Shapka studying in Holland is just ~$2500 a year for university.... where's the 100k going to then?
@ Tom: It's going straight into real-world experience - priceless !
I think shapka was referring to American Universities. It's ridiculously expensive and most kids come out with a lot less intelligence than going in. Experiencing the world and hardships and just making your way through life is a wonderful way to educate yourself. Not sitting in a classroom getting some liberal professors view or reading about other cultures and countries. She is experiencing it first hand and by this video becoming a better person for it.
Thanks for your answer, I knew about the high costs in America before, I was just confused with the 100K Tom mentioned and replied to him with what Laura did in mind. I admit: Expressed myself bit twisted.
palomino73 - it's all good. I was actually explaining to Tom about the 100k Shapka mentioned. We all agree this young lady is phenomenal and that's what matters most.
I'm 72 years old and I now have a new hero.
Laura,i have no words... I left my family when i was 15 and went to Africa on my own. My parents were born there,i heard so many stories,i wanted to see it. Ended up staying for 4 years. Changed my life for sure... I love the sea, and love sailing... You are amazing... ( To make a long story short).... Like a boss... Respect to you....
Awesome! It shows, that whoever taught her about sailing, also taught her about life...her dad, and mom. This is about essentials, and being confident enough, just not overconfident. I wish her a good life.
The wonderful product when parents support their children's dreams instead of holding them back for safety's sake. Quite a young woman, the world needs more people like her.
Incredible! 14 years old! I get nervous being on a raft too far off the beach! I just can’t fathom this journey! “You’re in a storm and there is no way out so you just sail through it!” Great analogy for life.
Laura, you are surely one of the very strong persons on this planet.
As a sailor with 40+ years of experienceI I can tell. I have 4 kids who I carefully involve in sailing; may they gain some of your strength. Thank you for sharing your experience! Blessings to you and to your future projects!
"It was the end of a dream, but the beginning pf my life." So poetic.
Laura had me at 'working at 8 years old' to go after her dream. If she'd merely sailed the English Channel, she would still be so inspiring for children young and old. Bless those around her for empowering her and not dissuading her from going after her dreams.
Wow! I have always dreamed of sailing around the world. Yet, at 42, I have never been sailing. I have so much respect for this girl. You are truly an inspiration to the young and old!!!!
What an exceptional person! A beautiful soul packed in an equally beautiful "box"; what a nice combo. If someone describes her as "naive" he/she is damn wrong 'cause this girl is not. She's only innocent and my hope is that she'll preserve this quality for the rest of her life. Pay attention to what she choose to mention (at least twice) out of her extraordinary adventure: not the crazy idea of navigating alone around the world (especially at 15-16 years old - a thing which few of us would ever consider at 30 or 40), not the storms, nor the many desperate situations, but the generosity of those islanders whom had pretty much nothing and still shared whatever little they had with her. Wow! Good luck and Godspeed
+GorillaProduction38 I totally agree with you. She keeps up the same official website (lauradekker.nl/English/Home.html) she started before her "trip". She's married now and she still has "Guppy". It has been for sale for a while now because she wants a bigger boat.
how much is she selling the boat for?
+John Beasley I don't know the price but she told she's very careful to whom she sells her boat. If you're serious about it you can actually contact her on the website I mentioned, and choose "Guestbook".
77000 nz dollars
77,000 new Zealand dollars?
Absolutely Amazing young woman. She is brave. And, I agree with another comment, the audience didn't help her by warming up to her even after she told them she was afraid up there speaking more than sailing around the world. Oh Well! Thank you for this wonderful, exciting video. She is one special young woman.
She is the Mozart of sailing. Amazing young lady.
I share this video monthly to my resident at the hospital to inspire them to greatness. The dedication to the dream is evident in your journey. Very few can do this and we are all amazed.
Whoever hasn't seen her documentary where she set sail.. Should watch it, it's extremely mind blowing and inspiring.. I love this girl, now she is all grown up to a amazing wonderful beautiful woman with such humbleness , who is married now but still adventures..
What an amazing woman. Massive respect to the courageous instinct to do something like this at such a young age.. Well bloody done girl!
you brought a tear to my eye , Bravo for you and your parents
Laura,
You are a very courageous young lady, and absolutely awesome person. If only there were more people like you in this world.
Don’t worry about the future Laura, you find your way in this world. The ocean and life has tough you a lot and you are and will be an inspiration to many people of all ages.
I personally had found your story very inspiring.
remarkable young woman...I wish you a long adventurous and love filled life.
What an incredible young lady telling her unbelievable solo journey around the world in a VERY small sailboat.
Kudos to you Laura, may all the winds blow fair for you on your continuing adventures through life and, if they
don't, I'm positive you will be up to the challenge with your obvious creativity and tenacity!
You are the bravest, most honorable,and true to your heart person I have seen ever! You are my hero!
This is the most amazing and inspiring thing I have ever seen. So much courage, so much intelligence, so much love. And perhaps above all sheer perseverance in the face of all sorts of challenges. Here is a person of exceptional worth to all of us
So beautiful a story and young lady, Laura Dekker you are amazing...have a wonderful life!
I started sailing seven years ago. Three years ago my vitiligo set in and I began to get sunburns really easily. I started to appreciate shitty weather a lot more and improved my sailing quite a bit.
Such a VERYSTRONG fresh heart to be alone in storms and bad weather. Thumps up and proud of you. I used to be a captain on merchant vessels and understand well the conditions of the ocean, but never sail alone like you. You break record in that very young age.
You did it! VERY PROUD OF YOU!
Just beyond amazing, impressive, and inspiring. What an ambassador for humanity and youth.I wish nothing but the very best for this young , extraordinary lady.
What a pleasure it is listening to this beautiful young lady "share" her thoughts and experiences of realizing her dream of sailing around the world. Will all teachers and students please report to the auditorium for a must- see presentation on inspiration. When she spoke of the people that shared with her what little they had, I had my kids come down and listen to that. Just to help reinforce the importance of gratitude; being satisfied with what you have and not constantly asking for more.
Laura your an inspiration,you have lived life they way you wanted . I'm sitting on my little sail boat at 50 years of age wishing I had your courage, best wishes Andy
to have very little and so freely and happily give it away, that is a far much more beautiful thing then collecting the greatest amount of money and saving it and keeping it from everyone else. Two totally different people. Thanks laura
Max Stevens the boat easily cost at least $50,000
Freaking outstanding young woman. What a hero and a great example of a human being.
just wow. I am impressed beyond words. shows what even young humans are capable of when you let them follow their dreams.
I only have grandsons right now, but you better believe they’re gonna hear this story. And, when I’m blessed with granddaughters, they’re DEFINITELY going to hear this story. Remarkable young woman.
This young lady is so incredibly brave and inspirational and watching her story gave us a kick up the backside to set sail! ⛵️
I meet Laura and her partner in Whangarei, NZ - they were on a boat here, no surprise. There is always more to the picture, but the picture that needs to be painted clearly is that young people need to have the opportunity for adventure and excitement. In Laura's case she was fortunate her father was into sailing, so no co-incidence there. But it does not have to be sailing... there are other young people doing amazing things. I meet a guy who had walked the entire coast of the North and South Island's on NZ (I think it took him about a year?).. getting by as he could. As for the court case to try and stop her, well the World is full of (arrogant) "do gooders", all trying to make out they are doing "it" for the other person when that is nuts as all humans only do anything if there is a "pay off" to themselves - and the "pay off" to these do gooders is that people doing what Laura is doing does not fit their limited World view, so they blow a gasket... you can assume they never had an ounce of adventure in their lives, and look what they turn into. These same "do gooders" will also be the ones who run around blaming drugs and drug dealers, having "wars on drugs" and wondering what happened. Well if you stifle a young persons creativity and sense of adventure guess where they might find it ?... whilst adventure may carry risk, there is also the risk of not pursuing goals and dreams.. but that is never talked about... so if you are a younger (or even an older) person and have a dream, go for it, and you just have to accept that everything in life is a risk.. I am 63 and not putting my feet up for sure...
Miles Dugmore This is beautiful comment. Thank you!
great comment! Really inspiring!
respect to your words ,old man
Yehhhhhhh 👍 I have well gone past the half century... took up paragliding recently...had a few knocks and bumps but having amazing adventures 😯
Laura is such a winner. She really is inspiring....I didn't think I could see this in young people any more.
I wish I could thank her. Thank you, Laura.
smart youth still exist... just so rare now. hats off to her
I saw a picture of her when she wasn't aware of the photographer probably ...the look in her eyes and face was simply gladiator steel. The Ocean is....not anything I would ever take on one to one. And I don't have any fear of what walks the earth....man or beast so respect this young person.
Truly inspirational young woman. Good for her! More of us should follow our dreams and be happier with less. Kudos to those parents too, for having the strength and fortitude to encourage Laura in fulfilling her dream. I like that her father taught her everything he could about the boat and the systems onboard, so she was well-equipped to handle every challenge. Her strength, courage, and attitude is the stuff of heroes!
All the special conditions where united in her upbringing to make this possible but that was not enough. She still had to be a special kid with a uniquely driven mind and free spirit to pull this off. Her winning sailing competitions at a young age was probably a strong indication of a gifted kid but still: how many parents would let their 14 years old alone to the oceans? Unique and crazy family for the adventure of a lifetime.
They need to show this kind of thing to more young kids in school. These kinds of stories should be everywhere in the media! LIVE life. Soooo many people on cell phones these days and worried about status and material things.
Thumbs-Up #3.8K-PLUS I AM, Tuesday evening 26 June 2018! If I had been in that audience I would have given her a standing ovation! SHE is what youth is about! She is what discovery is about! SHE is amazing! Her parents need to be asked for a lengthy interview.
"Laundry doesn't wash itself..." Priceless.
What an amazing girl. She has achieved so much in her short life!
No one knows where such intelligence comes from, but it is this young women's spirit that drove her to complete her goal. To circumnavigate the world. Her journey, I imagine, began when she started using her imagination. Then came the dreams. Followed by reality. The reality of doing something so utterly amazing, even now, it's hard to comprehend. Its one thing to sail into danger because you have no choice, but to do so on purpose........amazing.
I respect this young lady. For she represents what humanity ought to be about. She took a dream, turned it into reality and went with it. Along her journey, she learned more in one year at sea, then any 4 year institution could have taught her. Her love for life just brings tears to my eyes. Her soul is connected to the oceans which belong to God. That connection is forever. The people she encountered were amazing. Kind, thoughtful, decent. You can't learn that in a 4 year institution.
Then, of course, their is her excellent grasp of sailing. A true art in its purest form. One must work with the seas, the winds, life on and in the seas. Navigational skills aside, at 14, most young girls are worrying about what to wear at a dance, she excelled at navigation. Yes, she had some modern technologies, to assist her, but she did this alone, completely and utterly alone. 14 year old kids aren't supposed to be able to do such things, but Laura Dekker did.
We are blessed to have such a beautiful, intelligent, young person in our midst. She reminds all of us that:
No matter how crazy, how big, how difficult your dreams are, they're your dreams and no one can take them from you.
*what the sea hath taken, the sea shall give back*
⛵
JR
I must admit, Laura Dekker has become a great inspiration for me :-D
Not sure you will read this? I have been inspired to show this to my 7 Granddaughters because I have been telling them to open their minds to all the possibilities to this great world. You are so awesome and I know you have heard that so many times but you have changed my life and how i will relate to my Granddaughters that I need to inspire. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR MAKING THIS. best to you in your life !!
An old soul in a young body. She has skipped over a lot of the crap most folks go through. Wow, amazing story. Inspiring. What a journey!
Thumbs up thumbs up for this young lady I live on my sailboat got the bug myself in San Francisco but my wife didn't like sailing either now I got the dog and the boat I wish I was back in my thirties but now 66 I know how hard it can be I have had several men and women who say they can do it BUT WHEN THE STUFF HITS THE FAN they off i try to tell them you can't do that you' have to stick it out this young lady nerve and fortitude a major endurance self-driving self-determination young people anymore I sent back and tip my hat parents should be very proud
one of the most impressive people on this planet. Shows that willing something you can achieve anything you can think
I remember reading about her legal battles prior to her big voyage. Glad she was able to go! I often wonder after someone accomplishes something quite incredible at a young age if they have trouble finding fulfillment in lesser things. Very cool story, and I certainly hope she continues to live an exciting and rewarding life.
Srry for the late reply, its been like this for centuries ... its only recent that we see 16year old as kids that cant accomplice anything.... She now belongs to this list! www.ranker.com/list/famous-teenage-accomplishments/matthewcoleweiss together with the likes of Nadia Comaneci, Jordan Romero and Alexander the Great
Never stop moving Laura . . . some of us need you to lead the way..
She does not seem to be having a very comfortable or happy life since then, which is worrying.
@@rogerstone3068 Stormy weather... It's repeating life patterns is what it is; recapitulations. Without analysing too much her personal life or the personal life of her parents, whom I know nothing and have read very little about - having only just discovered this video and her 14-year old life story; it could be said that she walked into the same situation, really, that her mother or father did. From what she said in this video, her mother wasn't so keen on sailing, it wasn't calling her, whilst her father very much was, and it's in his blood. That's a certain type of person and personality and it's not always easy for those who don't feel that way, that intensely, towards the sea and life at sea. Maybe it had nothing to do with that - the reason for her parents' divorce - but it's interesting that Laura also married at a young age someone who didn't want this life for himself or for her and who was directly opposed to the lifestyle and all of the things that go with it, and that she should then divorce. She is now, from what I've read, with a young man who has had a similar life path, sailing from a young age, sailing on the same type of boat, and so the two of them see eye to eye and enjoy sharing in their passion together. Sounds like a good match. They have a son. And may they continue to enjoy their shared happiness for as long as it should last.
When you are well trained, you know your equipment inside out and you know what to do when all hell breaks loose, you are ready. Laura Dekker is such a person.
I was following along as best I could during her trip. When she lost her mast I was afraid it was over. So glad that didn't stop her. I was in my 50s and had a 15 year old hero. Inspiration can come from any direction!
Admirable,mind blowing,astonishing ... was coming to my mind,as I was listening to her !
Auf deutsch : Überwältigend und bewundernswert was Laura Dekker in so einem jungen Alter erlebt und erreicht hat - absolut beneidenswert ! - Was für eine tolle junge Frau !!!
Well done young lady!!!!!.... showed the lads that you are as good as anyone else sailing.
She's better than most ;)
If more parents taught their children to be as fiercely courageous as this young woman, we could turn the world around.
while this is a rather old video, and it is highly unlikely Laura would ever see this comment.
Laura, you are an incredible young lady (I realize you are now in your mid 20s now, but I have a couple decades on you :P) I say this not for your accomplishments, they are amazing unto themselves, but rather you are amazing for your drive.
wow ! Great story, I don't think many truly know what an accomplishment this really is. 1 year sailing solo around the world in a boat that small, truly amazing!
So beautiful and inspiring!
13 years now I have been watching Delos . The reason is because of Laura Dekker . She got me interested in seeing more video's about sailing
as brave as she is beautiful , born of great parents who thought outside the box , understanding the importance of experiencing freedom and adventure , best done while young .
THEEEEEEE most amazing person - video I have seen! Great! Good! AMAZING!! Thank you!
She's so amazing. Gorgeous, brilliant, and so emotionally healthy.
She and her parents should co-author a book on parenting. Very few people her age are so independent and emotionally well differentiated. Using the Dutch legal system to establish her formal independence must've taken so much courage and drive. She just didn't believe the word "no" had any meaning in her life. What an absolutely incredible blueprint for any young person seeking similar goals. She's just incredible!
Jonathan Becker Laura is Dutch and grew up with Dutch parents. There are many books about Dutch parenting. Dutch children are the happiest children on earth for a reason. Just look at his girl. Could this have een possible in any other country than The Netherlands? I think not.
Natural courage is a God given strength and Laura has been blessed with it.
Proud for you.
Have just watched Sailing Doodles channel and Laura has donated her yacht Guppy to a charitable organisation in the states that helps people learn about sailing and boatbuilding,etc. Awesome Laura Decker.
What a beautiful young woman with strength of character.
I really love her story and the way she presented is great, I am a sailor in Miami, ¨Coastal sail¨still, Laura has inspired me to start preparing to start a Caibbean trip at least.
I wish you friendly tides and good winds !
Luis Nino
Good luck. Watch out for squalls and crosswinds.
did you go?
What a tough, boring crowd :( Laura is a wonderful girl and all those 'grown ups' could have been so much kinder and generous to this fantastic young lady. I am also a solo sailor, also hired to give talks in events but mostly multinationals. And I think I know what happened here.... Adults are suddenly confronted with the dreams they didn't live, with the goals they gave up on, with a life they haven't really lived. And it only takes a dreamer whos dreams have come true to generate that uncomfortable feeling inside. I sometimes get a hint of that from my crowds when they hear my story, but I work around that in a way that hopefully empowers people not to quit, regardless of what they have been through, however old they may be. Well done Laura!
What an amazing young lady. Very inspiring. My second time watching and I was still awed by this extraordinary young girl who let nothing stand in her way. Rock on girl. You will change the world!!
Just an amazing young lady - truly inspirational!
This without question the most amazing video I have ever seen
Wow. One of the most interesting videos I've seen. And this from an adventureous teen girl who is a great story teller. My compliments to her parents for raising an exceptional daughter and one of the guttiest and intelligent teen girl I've seen. Not to mention how pretty she is.
Wow what a woman she is just WOW...
You are a wonderful young lady, and so brave. Keep moving forward in your life, you will do better and grander things.
Guys,
To **support Laura Dekker, please check out her movie "Maidentrip" on Amazon or Netfix.
**please up vote to support Laura!
Pure inspiration. Thank you for a wonderful talk!
Enjoy. Enjoy. Enjoy.
One of a kind brave young girl on high seas, great achievement and with superb navigational expertise all alone by herself. She should have received a title from the World Guiness Record for this!
wow , so many thoughts rushing thru my head.
Woww I am blown away by this young gal
amazing how she chased her dream
and still chasing other dreams well done
I absolutely love this young woman. If THIS IS OUR FUTURE, I have new faith again!
I am so impressed!!! What a Beautiful soul.
Que gran inspiración! Gracias!!
A TRULY INSPIRATIONAL HUMAN 🙏 The Less People Have The Happier They Are 🙏
Can’t believe I’m seeing this 7 yrs later. What an amazing young lady!
This young lady has balls! I would not sail an entire ocean with ppl (i would love to though) and solo wih her age... RESPECT!
I just want to Thank You for sharing your story Laura. How absolutely amazing! I feel like I can be a little more brave now. I really needed that today :)
Amazing job sailor! I an very proud of your accomplishments, and would like to commend your parents for having bestowed great knowledge upon you. You are the salt of the earth. Continue to be fearless, my thoughts are with you.
Wow! I hope my kid will become brave like you.
I am so happy for this girl I cried!
All of a sudden Byonce doesn't seem so cool.
bingo
BYONCE WOULDNT KNOW HOW TO FLOAT A RUBBER DUCK IN A BATHTUB WITHOUT INSTRUCTIONS
she always wanted to be on the water. she called herself 'be-on-sea' for a reason
Ha ha!!! 100th "very proud like" ;)
beyonce was never anything of importance for some of us out here anyway..
This woman is incredible. I give her so much respect for her bravey.
Bravo Laura Dekker.....wishing you all the best on your journeys and a great life ahead!!!!
you're an amazing young lady ! well done girl !
I am seriously in Love with this child... She is everything I admire in a Strong woman... She will one day be the Ruler of Earth...
+kamui1001 She already is the Ruler of Earth.
+kamui1001 ruler of the seas !!
That's the lion's share of this planet, right ?
Ruler of the world? Dear dear dear