It’s been six days since three Islanders set off from the Canary Islands in the Mermaid Atlantic, a Rannoch 45 rowing boat, in the 2023 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, known as ‘the world’s toughest row’.
Xavier Baker, Paul Berry and Chris Mannion have taken on the challenge to raise funds for ocean preservation.
Dagger board broken
As you might expect, the first few days for have been pretty ‘adventurous’. On day two, the crew faced a huge set back with their dagger board snapping in the rough seas. Given this is used to balance and stabilise the boat, it was not what they needed. However, the positive attitude of the crew meant they ploughed on through and made the best of it.
Tanker heading straight for them
The next day brought more bad luck. At 2am, they saw a tanker heading straight for them and despite trying to signal them, but the tanker seemed oblivious to them being there. It was only when they launched an anti-collision flare to warn the tanker of their position, that it veered away missing them by around 70 metres.
Messages from the boat
This week brings photos and a collection of text messages directly from the boat, as the crew make their way across the Atlantic.
“The weather is pretty full on, we are coping and hoping it will pass in the next few days. We are thinking when it gets ‘easier’ we will put more effort in to getting footage back, but we just wanted to let our sponsors and supporters know we haven’t forgotten about them!
“We are settling into a routine, but as there is no let up due to wind and swell combo, it’s hard to get a proper rest. We are eating fairly well, washing which is good and I can confirm we have all gone to the toilet properly! So things are working as they should be. Last night was catching big waves in the dark, crazy times. We are all doing ok and managing life on board, tomorrow marks seven days at sea! (like we weren’t counting!)
“A flying fish landed on the boat at night, Xav had to eject said fish whilst cruising down waves. Reached 11.4 knots surfing down a wave. Night time is so dark as there is no moon to guide us. Stars make an appearance here and there to aid navigation, but more often would be nice.
“No sea sickness. Distant dolphins jumping. Amazing sunsets. Wind is so strong today.
“Hopefully the weather should ease soon and we can get back to using our autohelm, we can then take turns getting rest and no one needs to hand steer.”
Show your support
The lads are hoping to raise as much as they can for three charities, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Surfers Against Sewage and The Seahorse Trust, whilst competing in the challenge to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic.
If you are able to show your support, do please head over to their GiveWheel Page to make a donation.
At time of publishing they had raised £2,220 of their £7,500 target.
Follow the journey
You can follow the crew’s journey across the Atlantic via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
