DARING THE SEA.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXI, Issue 18711, 17 May 1924, Page 9

DARING THE SEA.

IN LIFEBOAT TO AUSTRALIA.

LONDON, Msuy 7. "The idea of this voyage to Australia came when my wife. and myself were discussing a trip to the Mediterranean and the Red Sea," said Mr. William Thomas, the engineer who proposes to sail to Australia in a ship's lifeboat. .

"Looking at the map I found it possible, by making easy stages and hugging the coastline, to reach Australia, ensuring an 1 interesting trip and accomplishing something to remember. I have never been abroad, and have had no experience at sea except trips on steamers and fishing boats, and in my own little craft Hawaii, which I purchased after she brought ashore the crew of a torpedoed French vessel. •

"The preparations for this Australian voyage have been a three years' hobby. I have fixed a false keel to the boat and raised the cockpit in which the motor is installed in order to keep out small waves and spray. I have also made a new suit of sails and rigged a tarpaulin so as to close in the cockpit in bad weather. We are prepared for anything in reason. We do not contemplate settling in Australia, but expect to stay for some time, as we will probably need to recruit our finances. The expenses of the trip, will take most of our savings. We anticipate sailing next week."

Mr. Thomas, who will be accompanied by only his wife, intends to leave Penzance at the first opportunity in a 2^. it. steel lifeboat, equipped with sails .and a 17 h.p. motor. He intends to cross France by canal, to Marseilles, and then to call at Corsica, Alexandria, Port baid, Aden, Bombay, Colombo, Sumatra and Java, the longest stage between ports being 800 miles. Mr. Thomas proposes that his wife shall.steer during the day, and that he shall take the tiller at night.