The Last Man Across the Atlantic

by Paul Heiney

In 1960, when Sir Francis Chichester first raced single-handed across the Atlantic, it was widely regarded as a voyage only for the insane. Nowadays, the Singlehanded Transatlantic Race is not only accorded the greatest of respect, but it’s also recognized as a true test of stamina, seamanship, and navigation. But this doesn’t mean that it’s exclusively a race for heroes. In 2005, Paul Heiney, an amateur sailor by any measure, entered the race to prove that the spirit of the transatlantic pioneers can still get you from one side of the Atlantic to the other, if you try hard enough. He sailed in a standard family cruiser, in which he had the utmost confidence; but his trust in his own abilities was much less certain. The Last Man Across the Atlantic is an engrossing account of what it was like to be out there alone.

236 pages, Hardcover

First published November 1, 2005

Reviews

[Diane in Australia · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for a book filled with hair-raising moments, and death defying feats, pass this one up. But if you like reading about a 56 year old man who is not a racing sailor but joins a race anyway, you've found the right book.

He joined the race because he wanted to sail the Atlantic single-handedly ... and he did. He doesn't drown the reader in a lot of sailing lingo. It is mostly a book about his thoughts, his feelings, his disappointments, and his joys, while at sea. I liked the book 'cause I don't mind a slow, easy book ... kind of like having a leisurely cuppa with a friend.

3 Stars = I liked the book. I'm glad I read it.