Why sail solo nonstop around the world?

Oliver Widger is that intrepid guy who, after receiving a rare spinal condition diagnosis, sold most everything, bought a boat, taught himself to sail from YouTube videos, and successfully sailed from Oregan to Hawaii with only his cat.

He gained a following while sharing the journey, and rather than being content with the achievement, he’s doubling down and sailing around the world. Non-stop. Alone. Without assistance. And no cat. He left on November 1 from Port Townsend, WA.

Sailing a 1998 Pacific Seacraft 40, his route from the Pacific Northwest descends the Pacific toward Cape Horn. Once checking that box, his easterly route though the southern oceans extends toward New Zealand where he turns left toward home. Why is he doing it? Because it was there.

Tracker: trackoliver.com/
Videos: youtube.com/@Sailing_With_Phoenix

Source: https://www.sailingscuttlebutt.com/2026/11/06/why-sail-solo-nonstop-around-the-world/