FREEDOM HAS LANDED

We’ve officially taken ownership of our ocean rowing boat — Freedom. She’s now back in Plymouth and marks the first big physical milestone in our campaign to row the Atlantic.

The Road to Burnham

Jon and his dad made the long journey from Plymouth to Burnham-on-Crouch , while Scott joined them there after a (slightly easier) drive from Essex. Classic Dartford Crossing delays didn’t help, but it was worth it once we arrived. Burnham is a great spot - peaceful, practical, and a perfect base for Rannoch Adventure, the boat builders behind Freedom.

Lizzie from Rannoch gave us a full handover, walking us through the systems from bow to stern — electrics, kit storage, safety gear, the works. Seeing the boat in person for the first time brought it all home. This is real now.

First Tow

The return trip to Plymouth was another first - Jon’s first time towing anything. And not just anything: an 8.5m ocean rowing boat that draws a lot of attention on the motorway. But with a careful drive (and lots of nervous glances in the mirrors), we made it back safely, 7 hours later. Freedom is now based in Plymouth, ready for sea trials and training.

Next Step: Ocean Rowing Camp

In just a few weeks, we’ll be heading into a 5-day training camp with ocean rowing coach Duncan Roy. It’ll be full-on: kit checks, drills, night rows, sleep shifts, and putting both ourselves and the boat through her paces.

This handover marks the end of one chapter - and the proper start of the next.