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: the para anchor and the drogue.
Both are essential tools for managing the boat in difficult conditions, but they serve very different purposes. Over the course of my training, I’ve learned when and how to use each one effectively — lessons that will be key when I’m out in the middle of the Atlantic.
Para Anchor: Stability and Progress in a Storm
The para anchor, which is deployed off the front of the boat, acts like an underwater parachute. It’s designed to hold your position when strong winds or currents are pushing you in the wrong direction, or when you simply need a break from rowing.
The first time I practiced using the para anchor, the conditions were relatively calm — far from the chaotic storms it’s designed for. Even so, it was an eye-opener. I was struck by how quickly True Blue responded. One moment I was drifting along, and as soon as the para anchor deployed, the boat slowed and stabilized. It was a subtle but powerful reminder of how this simple tool can change the dynamics of a boat. Even in mild conditions, it felt almost like hitting a “pause” button in the middle of the ocean.
What’s even more fascinating is that the para anchor isn’t just for holding your position — it can also help you make progress. If you’re caught in a favourable current, like one heading towards the Caribbean, the para anchor allows you to move forward, albeit slowly, while keeping the boat stable. So, rather than fighting the wind and waves, you can let the ocean work with you, inching forward even when you’re not actively rowing.
Drogue: Controlling Speed in Big Weather
While the para anchor is about stabilising and slowing down, the drogue is used to manage speed when the conditions are pushing you too fast. It’s deployed off the back of the boat, like an underwater brake, and is especially useful in rough seas when the wind and waves are driving you forward at an unsafe speed.
I’ve found the drogue to be crucial in managing momentum. In big weather, without the drogue, True Blue could easily surf down waves uncontrollably or get spun by the wind. But with the drogue in place, the boat slows down, allowing me to maintain control and keep moving in the right direction, even when the sea is throwing its worst at me.
Looking for Big Weather
Interestingly, while most rowers might be looking to avoid bad weather, I’m actually hoping for some big weather this year. The reason is simple: with the right winds and waves, I can make faster progress across the Atlantic. I want to take advantage of powerful tailwinds to help propel me toward the Caribbean. The drogue will play a key role here, allowing me to maintain control and stay safe, even when the conditions are pushing me at high speed.
With the drogue slowing me down just enough, I’ll be able to harness the power of the ocean, riding the waves while keeping my boat stable and on course. It’s a fine balance — but one that could make all the difference in getting across the Atlantic quickly and safely.
