The Challenge

To row solo unsupported and independent from the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean, a distance of approximately 3000 miles as the crow flies. Unfortunately because of the wind and currents it’s not possible to row straight there so the average row is a lot more than 3000 miles.

For those who like facts and figures – over 2000 people have climbed Mount Everest – less than 100 have rowed solo across the Atlantic. The first being John Fairfax in 1969, it took him 180 days; I don’t plan on being out there that long though! The fastest row is 42 days set by Emmanuel Coindre in 2004, for rowing statistics please visit www.oceanrowing.com The average row is around 65 to 90 days, I plan to complete it as quickly as possible but I’m not out to set any records.

There is obviously an element of risk but I will endeavour to reduce this as far as possible, the main risk is from big ships such as oil tankers etc. On board I will have a CARD system (Collision Avoidance Radar Detector) which has a range of between 5 to 15 miles, given that my boat is only 7.1m (23ft) x 1.9(6ft) and sits very low in the water I will be difficult to see, assuming they’re looking in the first place!

I will also have a VHF radio to which I will try to contact any large tin can that happens to be heading in my direction, if I don’t receive a response then it’s a case of rowing in the other direction like the proverbial Olympic rowing team!!
After leaving the Canaries I head south until I hit the 20° parallel, hang a left, and head west until I bump into an island called Antigua. I haven’t a set plan yet for the actual row, information from previous rowers suggest I’ll be in the seat for 12 hours plus.