The premier event in Ocean rowing, the World’s Toughest Row sees competitors cross 3,000 miles west from La Gomera, Canary Island to Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua.

The World’s Toughest Row brings together teams from all walks of life united by the same objective: to take on the unique challenge of crossing an ocean in a rowing boat. The atmosphere is electric as people help each other prepare for the challenge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Teams battle with sleep deprivation, salt sores, and physical extremes inflicted by the race. Rowers are left with their own thoughts, an expanse of the ocean and the job of getting the boat safely to the other side.

The race offers different experiences to all involved. The challenge creates strong friendships and competitiveness gives way to the camaraderie that is required to complete the challenge. Upon finishing, rowers join a small community of friends that have shared the adventures of an ocean crossing. The mental and physical endurance will result in a life-changing achievement, that will never be forgotten.

Race Facts!

  • Each team will row more than 1.5 million strokes during the race.

  • Team Fortitude IV achieved the fastest 24 hours ever with 107.45 nautical miles covered.

  • The fastest row across the Atlantic was a four man team The Four Oarsmen who finished in 29 days, 14 hours and 34 minutes

  • At its deepest, the Atlantic Ocean is 8.5km miles deep.

  • The waves that the rowers experience can measure up to 20ft high.

  • Each rower is expected to use 800 sheets of toilet paper during their crossing.

  • In the 2016 race, solo rower Daryl Farmer arrived in Antigua after 96 days, rowing without a rudder to steer with for nearly 1200miles/40 days.

  • The fastest solo across the Atlantic was Mark Slats who completed in 30 days, 7 hours and 49 minutes.

  • Rowers burn in excess of 5,000 calories per day.

  • There is no toilet on board – we will be using a bucket!

  • The average rower loses around 8kg during a crossing.

  • In the 2018 race, solo rower Kelda Wood (Row 2 Raise) was kept company by a whale for nearly 7 days.