Yachting: Arctic sailor finishes journey

Graeme Kendall sailed through the 2000-nautical-mile Northwest Passage in 12 days. Photo / Richard Robinson

After 10,000 nautical miles and 68 days sailing alone, including becoming the first person to pass solo through the Arctic's Northwest Passage, Graeme Kendall arrived home yesterday - and all he wanted was an apple and a beer.

The Aucklander motored into the Viaduct Harbour fist-pumping the air to be greeted by cheers from friends and family. "It's magic, just magic," he said of his achievement.

Sailing solo through the Northwest Passage - which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans across the top of North America - was one of the last great sailing challenges left.

Mr Kendall said he was looking forward most to catching up with his family after more than two months apart.

His daughter and son flew up from Christchurch for his arrival and his partner, Francesca Morsic, could not be prouder. "It's amazing," she said. "What it comes down to is experience and belief, and he had both."

Ms Morsic met Mr Kendall with Customs staff before he pulled into the harbour, and all he asked her for was an apple and a Heineken.

He covered the 2000-nautical-mile Northwest Passage in 12 days, finishing on September 9.

He first attempted the passage in 2005, but it was blocked by ice and he was forced to sell his yacht to Edward Niclasen from Greenland.

The two have kept in contact and Mr Niclasen lent Mr Kendall the boat so he could realise his dream - a leap of faith considering no insurance company would cover the voyage.

"It was quite a risk, but it will be really nice to see him again and I spoke to him nearly every day," Mr Niclasen said in Auckland.