Sailor Jessica Watson, 16, begins attempt to circumnavigate globe

Sixteen-year-old Aussie Jessica Watson set sail from Sydney Harbour Sunday morning, hoping to become the youngest person to complete a solo round-world journey.

AFP reported that her 23,000-mile voyage was stalled a month ago after damage to her boat in a test run.  This did not deter her from going through with her dream, though Queensland state officials did ask that she reconsider her plans to go through with the solo trip.

Twitter users are wishing her safe travels, though some believe it is a risky voyage for someone so young.

1. 
   hackjack (Sydney, Australia) That Jessica Watson… I’m not sure what to think of that whole teenager sailing around the world thing. 17 Oct 2009 from web
2. 
   Linda_Pilko (Sunshine Coast, Queensland) Hooray for Jessica Watson! What an inspirational girl. I wish her a safe and uneventful journey. 17 Oct 2009 from TweetDeck
3. 
   arcfactory (Undisclosed) Bon Voyage Jessica Watson – may your voyage around the world be speedy and keep you safe!! http://bit.ly/4rgFA 18 Oct 2009 from Facebook
4. 
   kouky (Sydney, Australia) The zeal of Jessica Watson’s parents irks me. However I do wish her all the best of luck in her voyage. 18 Oct 2009 from Tweetie
5. 
   monkeymoyle (Perth, Australia) good luck jessica watson come home safe 18 Oct 2009 from web
6. 
   __PJ__ (Germany/Australia) Best wishes & many prayers for Jessica Watson on her 11 month sea voyage!! 18 Oct 2009 from web
7. 
   ssrrhh (Undisclosed) Excited for Jessica Watson, totally will stalk her blog over the next 8 months! 18 Oct 2009 from web

Watson’s trip is to last 11 months on a bright pink yacht called Ella’s Pink Lady, as skincare company Ella Baché is sponsoring the trip.

She comes after a few teenagers who have completed the same journey in the past year. The most recent of these adventurers are 17-year-old Mike Perham of Britain, and American Zac Sunderland, also 17, who completed his voyage in July.