A sailing duo have arrived in Hobart after a 70-day transoceanic voyage around the world, as part of preparation for the 2027 Global Solo Challenge.
Australian sailor Elizabeth Tucker and American mentor Cole Brauer made their way into Hobart on Friday morning after an arduous journey from Spain.
Tucker, a former Chief Financial Officer, is using the voyage as intensive training with guidance from Brauer, a celebrated solo sailor and the first American woman to complete a nonstop solo circumnavigation.
“This passage has been an incredible test of resilience and seamanship,” Tucker said.
She says the 70-day voyage tested their endurance and seamanship as they navigated the Atlantic, the equator and the Southern Ocean.
“Cole’s experience has been invaluable, not just in the technical aspects of sailing solo, but in understanding how to manage yourself and your boat through everything the ocean throws at you.”
The mentorship has helped Tucker hone her skills in weather routing, energy management, autopilot tuning, repairs and high-latitude sailing.
For Brauer, mentoring Tucker is about more than just passing on technical skills.
“Elizabeth has shown incredible determination and adaptability,” she said.
She’s proving she has what it takes.”
The voyage was not without its challenges.
A fishing net cable forced them to divert to Cape Verde for repairs and both sailors suffered severe food poisoning shortly after, with Brauer requiring IV hydration.
The pair leave Hobart for Sydney at midday today, where Tucker will launch the Za Ocean Racing Women’s Program.
