Pushing off from land will have been INCREDIBLY scary but this amazing woman has done it, and is taking her first few strokes out into the Atlantic ocean!
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.
In the world of ocean rowing, preparation is key—not just for navigation and weather, but also for health and safety. That’s why I’m taking my medical readiness seriously by utilising Trauma Med Services for my onboard medical kit. This comprehensive kit is tailored for the unique challenges of being at sea, equipping me with essential supplies to address a range of medical situations.
I’m excited to be sponsored by Exposure Lights, a company renowned for its innovative lighting solutions that are perfect for my ocean rowing adventure! Safety is paramount when navigating the open sea, and having reliable lighting can make all the difference, especially during nighttime or in low-visibility conditions.
I’m absolutely thrilled to have the incredible support of Shepherd Offshore as I embark on my ocean rowing journey! This remarkable company has been a cornerstone of the North East economy for over 100 years, proudly based along the scenic banks of the River Tyne in Newcastle. As one of the UK’s leading service providers in the offshore sector, Shepherd Offshore has been instrumental in fueling growth and innovation in the maritime industry.
When it comes to ocean rowing, having reliable emergency communication devices on board is absolutely crucial. Let me tell you about two key pieces of equipment that have been lifesavers in my own crossings: Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). EPIRBs are designed to be your lifeline in life-threatening situations. If you’re ever in trouble, you can activate your EPIRB, and it will send a distress signal along with your boat’s location to search and rescue satellites.
Another essential piece of communication equipment for my solo ocean rowing crossing is the BGAN (Broadband Global Area Network) system. BGAN is a satellite-based communication technology that provides reliable, high-speed internet connectivity and voice communication anywhere in the world. This system uses a compact, portable terminal that connects to geostationary satellites, enabling me to access the internet, send emails, and make voice calls even in the middle of the ocean.
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.
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.