Kihivas: Alone at the Ends of the Earth

by Istvan Kopar, Robert Farrelly (Editor)

Solo circumnavigation of the globe. Fewer than 300 sailors in history have accomplished it, less than the number of people who have climbed Mt. Everest, or even those who have gone to space. In 1990, Istvan Kopar set out to earn his place among this elite fraternity—and to do so with only one stop. If he were successful, he would realize a lifelong dream, and bring pride to his home country of Hungary in the process. Yet the risk of failure carried with it the possibility of dying alone in the middle of the vast sea. Over twenty years ago, Kopar first published the inspiring chronicle of his journey in his native Hungarian. All of his hopes, dreams, and fears coalesced into one Kihivas—The Challenge. Now, Alone at the Ends of the Earth brings this thrilling story to an English-speaking readership for the first time. Kopar recounts every element of his adventure, from custom-building his own 31-foot yacht, Salammbo, to battling the legendary waves of the Roaring Forties. His narrative is interspersed with proud descriptions of Hungary’s impressive maritime heritage, even as a landlocked country, and heartfelt portrayals of the memories that kept him going as he faced thousands of miles of lonely ocean. Experience a glimpse into the struggles, thrills, and insights known only to those who dare to pursue the greatest of challenges—alone at the ends of the earth.

189 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2015

Reviews

[Leonide Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Told in great detail, this life-changing adventure pitted an experienced sailor against the forces of nature and loneliness in a solo circumnavigation of the globe. Istvan's motivation seemed the drive to realize his potential and accomplish the nearly impossible, even though his family went through hardship and uncertainty. The lengthy preparations and many snafus with equipment and sustenance were interesting, and the technicalities of navigating and sailing solo probably meant more to those familiar with sailing. Journeys into the mind and emotions of Istvan brought immediacy to his experiences, an amazing push to extremes of human endurance. Repetitious days and recurring activities became somewhat boring, interspersed with extreme dangers which Istvan described matter-of-factly. An interesting glimpse into activities most of us will never experience.

[Jim Eaton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detailed account of circumnavigation

I liked the detail of this. He really gives you a sense of being there and it’s inspiring. Great voyage!

[Will · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent armchair escape to the wild southern seas. The author puts you right beside him, sharing his anguish, tribulations and triumphs as he battles his way through the elements. Very hard to put down.