[ASOC]

a " 24-foot sloop." isn't all that small - esp single-handed. A Lapworth sloop, it was up to the blue water. (https://sailboatdata.com/sailboat/lapworth-24 boat specs

More about the class - http://www.solopublications.com/sailglad.htm A better choice - the Dana 24

http://bluewaterboats.org/dana-24/

http://sailingmagazine.net/article-649-dana-24.html

[Romulus]

I’ve had 24 and 26 foot sloops, which I’ve happily sailed single handed on day sails. Wouldn’t want to undertake a blue water passage in one, though. This solo circumnavigation was a tremendous achievement. He was a terrific sailor, and I daresay a lucky one too.