If I learned one thing from long distance motorcycle travel, it's that there will always be someone who's more hardcore than you. You can try to beat that person, or you can focus on your own experience, which will undoubtedly be unique and memorable.

In any case, no one is keeping score. No one will check your route to make sure it was as long and difficult as possible.

Ships are inevitable. They let you avoid long detours or countries where your passport is no good, or where you must be escorted during your journey. In my case, that would be either Iran or China.