A Chinese satellite navigation company said Tuesday it has joined hands with global mobile satellite communications operator Inmarsat to offer telecommunications support for Chinese skipper Guo Chuan's attempt to sail non-stop around the world on his own.
The China Telecommunications and Information Center (CTTIC) said Guo will use global mobile satellite communication technology supplied by Inmarsat and CTTIC to receive and send information during his voyage.
Guo is the first and only professional offshore sailor in China. He plans to set a new world solo sailing record by sailing non-stop around the world in early November this year.
"Global mobile satellite communications is extremely important for sailors, because we all rely on information sent from satellites to sail," Guo said.
Guo will transmit photos and videos taken during his journey and talk with his family and friends back home via satellite communication services provided by Inmarsat and CTTIC.
Guo's trip will start in the port city of Qingdao in east China's Shandong province, taking him east toward Cape Horn in Chile and past the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.
He will then sail through the Strait of Malacca and finally return to Qingdao. He hopes to complete the 21,600-nautical-mile journey within 130 days.
"I feel quite excited about this challenge. To sail single-handed and non-stop around the world is the greatest dream for all sailors. The journey will be very meaningful for me," Guo said.
Guo is currently busy preparing and training in Europe for his upcoming journey.
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