Oskar Speck's 1932 Kayak Journey from Germany to Australia
10 days ago
- #kayaking
- #history
- #adventure
- Oskar Speck kayaked from Germany to Australia over seven years, arriving in 1939.
- His journey covered 30,000 miles in a folding kayak (faltboot), designed for rivers but adapted for sea travel.
- Speck was interned as an 'enemy alien' upon arrival in Australia due to World War II, delaying recognition of his feat.
- The faltboot kayak was innovative, collapsible, and lightweight, making it accessible for city dwellers in Europe.
- Speck's voyage was perilous, requiring constant vigilance to navigate waves and weather, with 10 capsizes (all near shore).
- Despite hardships, his journey earned him global friendships and recognition, including encounters with dignitaries.
- Speck originally intended to promote faltboots in Australia but ended up sharing his epic survival story instead.