A 17-year-old solo yachtsmen is due to make history today becoming the youngest ever to sail solo around the world.

Zac Sunderland has been away from home for 13 months aboard his 36-footer, Intrepid, travelling in a westerly direction.

He departed San Diego on Tuesday and is expected back in Los Angeles today 10AM West Coast time.

His reign as youngest is likely to be short-lived as Mike Perham, the British solo sailor has arrived in Panama aboard his 55ft ocean racer, Simply Money. Perham is younger than Sunderland by about four months, so barring any disasters, should take the crown.

However, both could be eclipsed by 15-year-old Australian, Jessica Watson, who is preparing an attempt on the record to begin later this year.