The ruling on Friday means Laura can keep living with her father but her parents must consult child protection authorities about all major decisions in her life and she cannot begin her planned solo trip. Judges said plans to ensure Laura's safety on the voyage were insufficient for them to let her set sail.

Judges said they were confident that Laura was emotionally ready for the trip, but questioned the safety precautions and her ability to continue her schooling while at sea. They said, however, her sailing skills were not in question. A psychological analysis submitted to the court said Laura's planned trip would not impair her social or emotional development.

Dekker was disappointed she failed to win the confidence of the court, a spokeswoman told reporters after the hearing. She added that Dekker could still be the youngest to sail solo around the world if she were to sail next year. In August, 17-year-old British sailor Mike Perham became the youngest person to sail solo around the world. Earlier this month, 16-year-old Australian Jessica Watson also set off on a single-handed, round-the-world trip.

Laura Dekker, whose plans first made headlines in August, said Monday she planned to wait until next May, after school ends, to embark on the voyage.