I arrived in Gran Canaria last week, and as I was waiting for True Blue to be released from customs I finished off some last tasks. Well yesterday Blue was released! I did a final check on everything so I am now ready to start the final stage of the challenge – the actual row across the Atlantic!
I’m thrilled to have the support of Viasat and Spectra, who are providing me with a critical piece of equipment for my ocean rowing adventure: a BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) system. This cutting-edge technology will keep me connected to the world, no matter how far out I am on the open sea.
When planning my solo ocean rowing journey, I knew I needed a tracking and communication system that would allow for real-time monitoring, keep me connected even in the most remote parts of the ocean, and provide a layer of safety for those following my journey. I wanted my mission not only to showcase resilience and courage but to bring others along, allowing them to see every moment of my progress. For this, CS Comms’ integration with TracKS system became an essential part of my setup.
When you’re preparing to row across an ocean, it’s not just about strength and endurance. The Ocean Rowing Academy has guided me to understand how to work with the elements. The ocean is unpredictable, and during my training on True Blue, I’ve had the chance to get familiar with two crucial pieces of equipment that help ocean rowers handle tough weather
When rowing across the ocean, managing power is critical. On True Blue, I rely entirely on solar energy from two panels — one on the bow and one on the stern — to run essential equipment like navigation, communication, and the water maker.
As a solo ocean rower, having a rough routine helps provide structure in an unpredictable environment, though flexibility is key. This block of training with the Ocean Rowing Academy has highlighted the importance of knowing the boat and taking initiative of my crossing.
As the continuous preparations for my solo journey from Gran Canaria to the Caribbean evolve, navigating the open seas is going to be an adventure in itself! The trade winds are my secret weapon—steady, reliable breezes that can help propel me toward paradise.
Training with the Ocean Rowing Academy has given me the skills to staying on top of navigation, communication, and safety. To help me manage all these aspects, my boat, True Blue, is equipped with a range of instruments that will keep me on track and ensure my journey is as safe and efficient as possible.
As I gear up for my solo row across the Atlantic in True Blue, I’m acutely aware that life at sea presents unique challenges. One of the more daunting aspects of this journey is the potential need for in-water operations and this was a drill that the Ocean Rowing Academy taught me.
Seasickness is a reality that even experienced seafarers must contend with. Having worked in the maritime industry, I’m well aware that seasickness is just part of life on the ocean. Despite all the preparation and knowledge, the constant motion of the boat can still take a toll — especially in the first few days at sea. As a solo rower, managing seasickness is essential, because there’s no one else on board to take over when I’m unwell.
