The Five-Year Voyage: Exploring Latin American Coasts and Rivers
The true story of rowing and sailing through 19 countries and 18,000 miles. Robbed, arrested, and shipwrecked, Ladd finds humor in people and beauty in nature.

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From the author of Three Years in a 12-Foot Boat comes an expedition of even grander scope, this time with Ginny, his brave sweetheart. In The Five-Year Voyage: Exploring Latin American Coasts and Rivers (Seekers Press, April 5, 2022) by Stephen Ladd, Stephen and Ginny fashion Thurston, a 21-foot ultralight craft in which they row and sail from Florida to the Caribbean along the coast of Central and South America.

Though storm-battered and robbed at knifepoint, they ascend the Orinoco River to a remote steam connecting with the Amazon. They descend this to Manaus, then climb another tributary south through Bolivia. After a portage they transit the world’s largest swamp, then float down the Paraguay to Argentina. Returning via other rivers, they pause to have a son. Steve sails homeward alone to safeguard baby George, but shipwrecks in surf.

Written with humor and keen observation, The Five-Year Voyage is the honest account of an unprecedented odyssey. It’s a fascinating cruising tale and unique armchair adventure not only for small boating fans but for anyone who appreciates true adventure stories. Stow away with a proven storyteller on a truly mind-blowing voyage.

Stephen Ladd’s first book in the Ladd Small-Boat Adventure Series, Three Years in a Twelve Foot Boat, describing his solo adventures from the Missouri to the Pacific, South America and the Caribbean is being republished on April 5, 2022, to accompany The Five-Year Voyage, book two in the series.
Join Steve in conversation as he is interviewed on our nation’s podcasts and airways. Stay connected with Steve on his website and social media at www.stephen-ladd.com.