Solo round the world sailor Alan Paris could be passing close by Bermuda as early as Monday as he continues on the final leg of the Around Alone race.

Currently wallowing in light conditions and still some 1,000 miles from the finish line in Newport, Rhode Island, Paris reported yesterday that he was hopeful winds would increase, allowing him time to sail within waving distance of the St. George's shoreline at some point on Monday.

"I was hoping to swing by Bermuda if the conditions allowed and this is still not clear," said Paris yesterday.

"However, if I do it will be on Monday around midday. No stopping, just a quick peek at my lovely Island that I will soon be able to return to."

The intrepid sailor said he was sandwiched between two high-pressure systems and struggling through winds which were blowing little more than three knots.

Having earlier enjoyed days when he was completing 175 miles and more, his boat, BTC Velocity, yesterday moved only another 57 miles closer to the US finish line.

But conditions are expected to improve as he nears Bermuda.

Swiss entrant Bernard Stamm became the first sailor to complete the 28,000 mile adventure on Thursday when he guided his boat, Bobst Group-Armor Lux, through Narragansett Bay and into Newport.

Paris, who will take up a post as director of the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute on May 27, is hoping to finish next week.