Schoolboy Who Sailed the World

The Schoolboy Who Sailed the World
First Broadcast: Thu 5 November 2009

In 2006, Michael Perham, a 14-year-old schoolboy from Potters Bar, set a world record as the youngest person to sail solo across the Atlantic.

Cutting Edge follows his next record attempt as, aged just 16, he takes on the biggest challenge in sailing: a solo non-stop circumnavigation. More people have been into space than have sailed non-stop around the world alone.

In November 2008, Michael set off alone, filming his bid to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world.

This documentary follows his dramatic, and at times almost unbearable, struggle with wild seas, failing equipment and loneliness, while his parents, friends and girlfriend Beckie anxiously await his return.

Michael originally planned for four months at sea, but it soon becomes apparent that he will have to battle with the elements for far, far longer than anyone anticipated, and encounter difficulties he could never have predicted.

  1. All Episodes

    1. The Schoolboy Who Sailed the World Sat 13 Feb 2010

      In 2006, Michael Perham, a 14-year-old schoolboy from Potters Bar, set a world record as the youngest person to sail…

      • Some strong language
      • This programme has episodes with subtitles available.

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