“In 2005, I traveled to Yangzhou, South China and launched the construction of the replica of Zheng He’s wooden sailboat,” explained Hsu Hai-peng, chairman of the Society of Extreme Exploration, which initiated the project to commemorate the 600th anniversary of Zhen He’s first expedition in Asia.

“We nonetheless made some minor modification to the original design for security reasons,” noted Hsu.

The 16x4 meter boat is equipped with a global positioning system (GPS) and an engine to easily maneuver in and out of ports. According to Hsu Hai-peng, the boat needs a minimum crew of 6 people to sail.

“Next October, we will start a 33,900 nautical miles journey based on famous Chinese explorer Zhen He’s previous expeditions,” added Hsu.

Zheng He was sent by Ming Dynasty Emperors between 1405 and 1433 to establish Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean region. Zheng traveled with a fleet of 200 ships and a crew of 23,000. According to Menzies Garvin’s controversial book “1421: The Year the Chinese Discovered the World,” Zheng He supposedly discovered Australia, New Zealand, the Americas and Australia.

“We will end our journey on Shanga Island in Kenya and then return to Taiwan or China,” also noted Hsu. “We haven’t decided yet because the NT$20 million budget for the two-year expedition is still missing.”

According to Hsu, the foundation has completely used the initial budget. The confidential amount was provided by local and international companies, expressed Hsu who is now hoping for the public and the government’s help.

However, Hsu also claimed, “Even if the money is not completely raised before October, we will depart and raise the funds during our expedition.”

Moreover, Hsu needs more volunteers to complete his crews that will relay all along the two-year journey.

“We need experienced sailors from Taiwan, China, Asia and even Western countries,” asserted Hsu. “Although Taiwan is an island, it is hard to find people experienced in sailing, so we welcome anyone with strong sailing skills to contact us.”

Two German nationals have already been accepted according to Hsu.

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