Bert terHart returns home from his epic journey around the world!

Aug 13, 2020

There really is no place like home. Bert terHart certainly knows that, having returned July 18 to Victoria, BC to a rousing welcome following his historic solo voyage around the world – the first North American to sail the route using only celestial navigation. During a time when self-isolation became the new buzz word for millions around the globe, the Gabriola Island Power and Sail Squadron member was so very alone aboard Seaburban for several months but then again was never really on his own as his Epic Journey blog entries, several of which were reprinted in past editions of The Porthole, were read by thousands who followed his trek wave by wave.

The Gabriola man sailed into Victoria’s Inner Harbour Saturday to cheers from his family and friends after completing a solo, non-stop circumnavigation around the world via the five great capes using only celestial navigation. Bert completed this challenge with just a sextant, a sailor’s almanac, log tables and pen and paper. Ter Hart is the first North American, and one of only five people, to have accomplished the feat.

Bert completed this venture using only celestial navigation. He used a sextant to measure the angle between the horizon and a particular star, the moon or the sun at a precise time. He took measurements from multiple celestial bodies and then would compute complicated calculations and cross-reference with log tables to determine his exact location.

During this sailing Odyssey Bert had to deal with 50 to 60 knot winds, hurricanes and all the while just getting 2 hours of sleep of time. Bert was always amazed at how the body adapts to the challenges.

Welcome home Bert I’m sure you’ve been inspirational to many people.

-BN