Who Is Laura Dekker? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on September 20, 1995, in New Zealand, Laura Dekker is a Dutch solo sailor renowned for her groundbreaking sailing achievements. Laura gained international recognition when she set off on a remarkable journey to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world, a feat she accomplished at the age of just 16 in 2010. Laura's extraordinary journey exemplifies determination and ambition, inspiring many young people to pursue their dreams regardless of the odds.
As of 2025, Laura is 29 years old and continues to navigate the seas, both literally and metaphorically. Her life story has been documented in numerous media outlets, and she remains a prominent figure in sailing circles.
| Occupation | Explorer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 20, 1995 |
| Age | 30 Years |
| Birth Place | Whangārei, New Zealand |
| Horoscope | Virgo |
| Country | New Zealand |
Popularity
Laura Dekker's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Laura Dekker stands at an impressive height of 5 feet 6 inches (167 cm). Her athletic lifestyle is evidenced by her fit physique, typically weighing around 125 pounds (57 kg). While specific body measurements are not publicly disclosed, her active routine and commitment to sailing suggest a strong and healthy build.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Laura Dekker hails from a supportive family, with her parents fostering her love for sailing from a young age. Over the years, she has maintained a relatively private personal life regarding her relationships. As of 2025, Laura is reportedly dating a fellow sailor, but details about her boyfriend remain undisclosed. She is known for keeping her romantic life under wraps, allowing her achievements to take center stage.
Laura Dekker (born 20 September 1995) is a New Zealand-born Dutch sailor. In 2009, she announced her plan to become the youngest person to circumnavigate the globe single-handed. A Dutch court stepped in, owing to the objections of the local authorities, and prevented Laura from departing while under shared custody of both her parents.
In July 2010, a Dutch family court ended this custody arrangement, and the record-breaking attempt finally began on 21 August 2010. Dekker successfully completed the solo circumnavigation in a 12.4-metre (40 ft) two-masted ketch named Guppy, arriving in Simpson Bay, Sint Maarten, 518 days later at the age of 16.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Laura Dekker's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. Her earnings stem from various sources, including sponsorship deals, sailing competitions, and speaking engagements. Laura's ability to brand herself within the sailing community has provided her with opportunities that contribute to her financial success.
LifeSail released a public statement in March 2019 with a timeline of events that stated Dekker originally donated Guppy as a requirement to receive funds from a third party. Those funds would be used for her new boat, Guppy XL.
Dekker blames LifeSail and Matt Schulz, alleging they broke their contract by sailing the vessel with inexperienced crew and mooring in unsafe locations.
She claimed compensation for the loss of Guppy, as the donation contract with LifeSail specified that in the case of a total loss all insurance compensation would go to her, less any value added by LifeSail.
Career, Business, and Investments
Laura Dekker's sailing career took off at an early age, and she has since established herself as a formidable presence in the sailing world. After completing her solo journey around the globe, she has participated in numerous sailing events and competitions, further cementing her status as a professional sailor.
In addition to her sailing career, Laura has ventured into business by partnering with brands that align with her passion for adventure and exploration. She has also engaged with various charities and organizations to promote environmental awareness and inspire the next generation of adventurers.
Social Network
Laura Dekker maintains an active social media presence, connecting with fans and followers through platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Her Instagram account, in particular, showcases her sailing adventures, travels, and personal insights, allowing her to engage with a global audience. She often uses her platform to share motivational messages and support causes close to her heart.
Education
Laura's unique journey has shaped her education outside traditional academic environments. Based on her experiences at sea and her hands-on approach to learning, she has amassed a wealth of knowledge about sailing, navigation, and maritime safety. While specific educational details may not be widely known, her commitment to lifelong learning is evident in her continual pursuit of new sailing challenges and experiences.
An Iridium Communications tracking system onboard allowed the family in the Netherlands to monitor her course closely. She planned to avoid the stormy Roaring Forties, although the South Africa route gave her at least one big storm.