Dutch world traveler Henk de Velde passed away on Thursday at the age of 73. The sailor became known for his often very adventurous trips around the world, about which he wrote books and gave lectures. In February of this year, bowel cancer was diagnosed at De Velde.
In total, De Velde sailed around the world six times. He made his first world trip in 1978 with his wife, and his son was born during that trip. The sea sailor became more and more famous for his wanderlust and he appeared more and more on television with his travels. “If I could sail to the moon, I would probably be on my way,” he said in a 2013 interview with NRC.
De Velde twice tried to break the world record solo sailing around the world, but failed both times. “People often ask if I’m looking for myself,” De Velde told NRC. “Nonsense, I’ve always had myself with me. I don’t even wonder who I am. I’m.”