Having a satellite phone is a critical component of any ocean rowing safety plan, especially for a solo crossing. Unlike regular cell phones, satellite phones connect directly to orbiting satellites, ensuring reliable communication even in the most remote parts of the ocean where traditional mobile networks are nonexistent.

When preparing for a solo ocean rowing crossing, it’s crucial to equip yourself with a comprehensive array of safety and signalling devices to ensure you can attract attention and call for help in an emergency. Understanding how to use these devices effectively can greatly enhance your chances of a successful rescue.

For my solo ocean rowing crossing, I’m using a SeaGo 4-man liferaft, which is a crucial part of my safety gear. This liferaft is designed to withstand tough marine conditions and ensure I have a reliable means of survival if I need to abandon my boat.

In addition to the satellite communication systems, having robust radio communication devices on my ocean rowing boat is crucial for ensuring safety and maintaining contact with other vessels. Two essential radios on board are the MF/HF (Medium Frequency/High Frequency) radio and handheld VHF (Very High Frequency) radio.

In today’s fast-paced world, it often feels like we’re living life in the fast lane, perpetually racing from one task to the next. The relentless pace can be exhilarating, but it also leaves us yearning for moments of stillness and peace. Yet, paradoxically, many of us have adapted to this frenetic lifestyle by numbing the sensations that come with it. We crave noise and surround ourselves with drama, perhaps as a way to avoid confronting the deeper, quieter parts of ourselves.

As I prepare to row across an ocean, I find myself reflecting on the profound difference between loneliness and solitude. While both involve being alone, their impacts are worlds apart. This journey is about more than just physical endurance—it’s a chance to understand and embrace the peace of solitude, something I hope to share with you all.

When the rain hits Herefordshire and turns everything a cool shade of Instagram grey, you won’t find me hitting pause on my training. Nope, I take the party
to my cow shed turned ultimate DIY gym, where my rowing machine and I get to know each other on a whole new level.

Embarking on an ocean rowing journey is not just a test of endurance but a profound dialogue between body and sea. As someone who’s navigated the rigorous demands of professional cycling and encountered my fair share of physical hurdles, including an AC joint issue and SIJ weakness compounded by a lordotic spinal curve, I’ve learned the invaluable role of targeted gym training.