The New Zealand-born and Dutch-raised teenager left Gibraltar just short of her 15th birthday. She has already crossed two oceans and expects to finish the journey by May 2012 - when she will still be three months younger than Australia's Jessica Watson who currently holds the unofficial record.
"You might think a birthday is no big deal for someone who has already experienced more adventure than most people will see in a lifetime, but turning 16 is a milestone and she is looking forward to celebrating."
Laura will celebrate with her father Dick, who travelled from The Netherlands to spend time with her during the three week Australian stopover.
Manager Lyall Mercer give's Laura a New Zealand flag for her birthday - something the young sailor has been asking for.
"Her Dutch flag is on its last legs and Laura is very proud of her New Zealand heritage, so she'll fly the flag of her birth nation for the duration of her journey."
Laura to chat to supporters on Twitter
Unlike former teenage sailors Watson and American Abby Sunderland, Dekker has shunned much of the publicity, preferring a lower-key trip.
Lyall Mercer said he is trying to respect her desire for less media attention while fielding countless enquiries from across the world.
To help connect with her supporters, Laura has recently established an official Twitter account and while this is usually maintained by Mercer's company, she will be on Twitter chatting live and answering questions on Thursday September 22. To chat to Laura Dekker follow her on Twitter @Laura_and_Guppy and log in at 4pm Australian time (8am European - Paris and Amsterdam time) on September 22.
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