TEENAGE Dutch sailor Laura Dekker is nearing the finish of her solo sailing trip around the world almost the same way she began it — in good spirits, despite endless debate about the terms under which she is allowed to be at sea.

A 14-year-old Dutch sailor departed from Portugal today on her quest to become the youngest person to sail around the world solo, according to her manager.

A 14-year-old Dutch girl will set off tomorrow on a year-long attempt to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world.