It took 74 days for a sailing ship to make the journey from Hong Kong to New York in 1849, which is still the record for the fastest time. This record stood for 154 years before it was finally surpassed in 2003 by a newer one that was superior by two days.This record is important because it illustrates the progression that has taken place in marine technology and travel over the course of the past two centuries.
In the year 1849, the maximum amount of time that a sailing ship could travel was 74 days. However, by the year 2003, that record had already been surpassed by two days. This is a demonstration of how far travel and maritime technology have come in recent years.