American Grand Canyon river guide Kelsey Pfendler has completed a historic solo rowing journey across the Pacific Ocean, traveling from California to Hawaii and setting a new world record.
After spending nearly six weeks at sea, Pfendler arrived at Honolulu Harbor on Friday night aboard her 21-foot rowing boat, “Lily,” where she received a warm welcome from hundreds of supporters.
She began her 2,400-plus-mile voyage in May from Monterey, California, aiming to become the first American woman, the youngest woman, and the fastest woman to complete the solo crossing of the Pacific Ocean.
Throughout the expedition, millions of people followed her journey on social media, where she regularly shared videos documenting life alone at sea, the challenges she faced, and the unforgettable experiences she encountered.
According to preliminary records, Pfendler not only surpassed previous women’s speed records but also broke the existing men’s record for the route.
However, her achievement is still awaiting official verification by the Ocean Rowing Society International, the organization responsible for certifying ocean rowing records recognized by Guinness World Records.