Here are 3 pictures of our boat, which we have named ‘Heritage Explorer’ after our major sponsor, Heritage Oil. It was built in 2007 and commissioned in 2008 and cost around 45 thousand pounds to build and fully fit out. We have bought it second hand, for 24.5 thousand. It started the Woodvale Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009 but unfortuantely did not complete the race due to broken and lost equipment. We are currently getting it ready for our crossing.  

All boats are designed to a certain format which ensures that they are all the same (within the pairs class) in order to make the race fair. They must fit these criteria as part of the organiser’s rule specifications. The boat is approximately 23 feet long and 6 feet wide. Once fully laden with all equipment it will weigh between 750 and 1000kg. It is made from marine ply and epoxy. As shown the two rowing positions are located in the centre of the boat (although there will only be one of us rowing at any one time) with space for equipment in the bow cabin. The rear cabin will be for rest.

 The diagram above shows some of the main features of an ocean rowing boat.