The Boat

The vessel specifically designed and constructed for this challenge is ‘Bojangles’. At 23ft long and 6ft wide, ‘Bojangles’ is the most technically advanced ocean rowing vessel ever constructed. Manufactured from a Carbon-Kevlar composite woven material (by Woodvale Challenge), it is incredibly strong and durable, whilst at the same time being the lightest material suitable for the construction of an ocean going vessel. The woven construction increases the impact resistance threefold, while the method used to cure the resin ensures that the strength of the boat is not limited by the strength of its joints. In addition, renowned yacht designer John Shuttleworth was employed at the design stage to highlight and implement specific structural requirements for this vessel and her particular voyage, all of which have been incorporated into the final build.

The design of the vessel’s hull is hydrodynamically smooth so that the minimum of friction is exerted on her. This design also extends above the waterline where the vessel’s smooth cabin shape reduces drag against the wind. In order to increase the inherent stability of the design still further, there is an additional 50kg of ballast in the centre of the keel.