First Lady: A History Making Solo Voyage Around the World

On June 5th, 1988, Kay Cotee fulfilled a childhood dream.

After covering more than 22,000 nautical miles in 189 days at sea she became the first woman in history to complete a solo, nonstop and unassisted voyage around the world.

Sailing her yacht, Blackmores First Lady, Kay Cottee crossed the world’s great oceans, rounded the five capes of the Southern Hemisphere and was lashed by gale-force winds and mountainous seas. She battled the elements, faced natural hazards such as icebergs, whales and rocks and won the battle against the most deadly enemy of all – loneliness. For six months she grabbed no more than twenty minutes sleep at a time. For five months she had no fresh food. Her only human contact was by radio.

When Kay Cottee and Blackmores First Lady made their triumphant entry into Sydney Harbour the recognition of her courage was spontaneous and overwhelming. In a climax befitting her achievements Kay was made an officer of the Order of Australia and was then awarded the highest honour of all when she was named the Bicentennial Australian of the Year.

Kay Cottee – First Lady is the story of a remarkable voyage. Told in her own words, it is a thrilling account of Kay’s historic achievement and true testament to her courage, determination and irrepressible good humour.