The Splendid Indian

Peter Barker recounts the story of sailing solo across the Indian Ocean from Australia to South Africa. At the age of 53, put his career into the wardrobe along with his pinstriped suits and did what he always wanted to do - sail around the world on his own. In 2007, he discovered the challenge and vulnerability of solo sailing; knocking himself unconscious; having his boat knocked down twice in a storm; escaping disaster after almost being blown on to a reef and, at all times, testing his nerve to the limit. Peter savoured weeks of being alone in a big, blue sea. He lived a rigorous routine 24 hours a day, day after day. He encountered strong winds and big seas but still found humour in the simple challenges of cooking and eating. He sailed from Sydney to the Torres Strait where he was reunited with the man who taught him to understand the sea. Across the Indian Ocean he discovered new lands and people - Cocos (Keeling) Islands, small pieces of paradise, and Rodrigues Island, Mauritius and Reunion Island. His last challenge was sailing down and around the notorious South African coast. This is a charming and exciting account of a man living his dream. More details: www.barkeraustralia.com