Christmas at sea, and a life saved
Christmas was spent far from home, deep in the Atlantic, as the team adjusted course and headed further south to avoid an Atlantic low. It was a necessary decision, taken to protect both the crew and the boat, with hopes of making up time once they begin turning towards Antigua.
Conditions have been challenging. Light winds have made progress feel like rowing through treacle, demanding patience and resilience, while heavy rain and repeated squalls have made life on board uncomfortable and constantly damp. With limited space, changing wet gear and managing equipment becomes a challenge in itself, yet spirits on board remain strong and power is being carefully managed to keep the boat moving safely.
Despite the toughness, there have been moments of joy. A storm petrel regularly circles the boat, growing closer each day, and small moments of humour, including the discovery that “waterproof” socks are anything but, help lift morale in the intense heat.
The physical demands are relentless. Long hours on the oars are followed by short windows to eat, hydrate, clean, check systems, and rest before starting again. Night rowing, often alone in big seas and strong winds, is especially challenging but also deeply special, with the vast ocean and stars providing rare moments of perspective.
That perspective was brought into sharp focus when the crew spotted a turtle trapped in fishing net at the surface. The boat was quickly turned, the turtle freed, and she disappeared back into the depths - a powerful reminder of why this challenge matters. And notably important for the team who are supporting the Blue Marine Foundation and the Ocean CleanUp on this mission.
Media interviews with Radio Solent and ITV Meridian have helped share the team’s journey and message, alongside unforgettable encounters with marine life, including a huge blue marlin and jellyfish safely returned to the sea.
It’s tough, exhausting, and uncomfortable - but if it were easy, it wouldn’t be the World’s Toughest Row. The team continue to row on, steering south towards the trade winds, focused on the finish line and the moment they arrive in Antigua (and the carnage they plan to cause at their first buffet breakfast!)
A heartfealt thank you to our sponsors, for helping us achieve this incredible feat. Thank you to PES wind, OCCAM, Rainbow Image, Vital Leisure, Free Electrons, BladeBUG, DFS Composites, Sign IT, Defenda, and thank you to Water Plus, the UK’s biggest water retailer for businesses and the public sector. See https://www.water-plus.co.uk/better-ways-with-water