Zac Sunderland; Homeschool teen becomes youngest person to sail around the world alone

July 17, 11:39 AMLA Homeschooling ExaminerTammy Takahashi

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Photo courtesy of sailzac.com

Imagine, as your final year of high school, instead of sitting in classrooms and going to football games, you're sitting on a boat, alone, as you sail around the world.

Zac Sunderland did exactly this. And not only did he sail around the world, he kept a blog about his adventures, and completed all of his high school courses online.

Zac's story is incredible. With the coaching and blessing of his father, and a little luck on his side, Zac was able to circumvent the entire globe and arrive in Marina Del Ray on Thursday, July 15th, at the same dock from which he set sail.

Facing incredibly cold weather, fierce winds, and the threat of pirates off the Indonesia coast, Zac took part in what could be the ultimate coming of age ceremony - just him and the ocean, for an entire year.

Well, maybe not just him and the ocean. He had an internet connection. He was able to communicate with his family and friends, as well as update his blog. He also took virtual classes to finish his school work.

With the internet, careful preparation, and a lot of chutzpa, a homeschool teen is capable of anything. Instead of sitting in a classroom and wondering what the real world is like, teens can explore the world, and find out for themselves.

Zac was the youngest person to sail the world, but not for long. British teen Mike Perham is expected to dock soon as well, and he will be a few months younger than Zac.

Homeschooling is not just sitting home alone with books, as you know. Zac is wonderful example of what can be done when teens have freedom and a good internet connection.