Teen sailor battered by 12-hour storm

16-year-old sailor Jessica Watson. Photo / Getty Images

BRISBANE - Jessica Watson has faced her toughest test to date after experiencing hurricane-force wind gusts of up to 70 knots and a swell of seven to 10 metres.

The 16-year-old also experienced her first knockdown during the violent storm on Friday night and then had to endure three more throughout the 12-hour ordeal.

A knockdown is when the mast goes below horizontal and into the sea.

During the storm, Jessica sailed past the 11,000 nautical mile mark in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, however was belted into her wet-seat throughout.

According to Jessica's website, despite the horrific conditions and some minor damage, both she and Ellas Pink Lady fared well.

"We certainly copped a pounding out here, but we came through it all OK," Jessica said.

"It's times like this when you realise why good preparation of the boat is so important. She handled it well."

According to Jessica, the winds have now abated and the dolphins have returned.

She is sailing along in more pleasant conditions with a 10 knot breeze and three metre swell and after cleaning up the mess topside will attempt to catch up on some sleep.

Jessica also managed to capture some images of the rising sea just before the storm struck and is expected to post a more detailed update on her blog soon.

The 16-year-old Queenslander is attempting to be the youngest ever person to sail non-stop and unassisted 23,000 nautical miles around the world.

- AAP