INTREPID Ealing pensioner Jeanne Socrates has left the UK and is making her the final preparations for another voyage into the history books.
The 70-year-old plans to embark later on an epic non-stop solo circumnavigation of the globe. She flew to British Columbia on Monday, where her 38-foot vessel Nereida is currently anchored.
The journey, set to last about seven months, will involve traversing some of the most perilous stretches of water in the world.
Mrs Socrates, who spoke to the Gazette before flying out said: “I’m sure it will be fine, as long as I don’t get knocked down by waves.
“I’ve learned a lot from my last couple of voyages so I don’t think I’ll be putting myself in that kind of situation again. I’m feeling quite confident.”
She aims to set sail later this month and said she will spend the coming days ensuring that her boat is seaworthy and stocking up with seven months worth of supplies.
When asked how she felt about spending more than half a year alone at sea, she said: “I don’t feel as if I’ll be alone. I’ve got so many people rooting for me and I know they will all be with me in spirit.
“I will also be talking to people a lot on the radio so will also be a big help while I’m out there. I would just ask everyone in Ealing to keep their fingers crossed for me.”
Mrs Socrates, who is already the oldest woman to sail solo around the world, took up boating after her husband died from cancer.
She raises money for Marie Curie Cancer Care through her expeditions. She met the Queen and Prince Philip during a visit to the UK in December and January and also received an award from the Cruising Association.
To find out more including the latest on her travels, visit the website www.svnereida.com.
