The 16-year-old /*Thousand Oaks*/ teen was trying to become the youngest sailor to sail solo around the world.
/*Sunderland*/'s rescue was handled by France and Australia. Australia spent $94,000 to charter a jet to fly over the search area. They also sent two Orion military aircraft.
Also, France sent three ships to join the rescue effort.
Sunderland's rescue was welcomed in Australia and in her home state of California.
However, many question why Australia and France were footing the bill for an American teenager's solo quest. After the 1912 Titanic disaster, there was an international agreement to help any ship in distress at sea at no cost.
The two countries involved, France and Australia, have brushed off questions about the cost of the rescue.
Officials say they have no plans to seek compensation.
AP contributed to this report.