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TransAtlantic Speed Record: Will it Ever be Broken Again?

Posted by Greg Trauthwein June 22, 2015

Will the prestigious TransAtlantic speed and endurance record ever be broken? Should it?

Twenty five years ago headlines around the world announced a new world record, the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, by a ship built in Australia.   

Incat Tasmania reports that June 23, 2015, marks 25 continuous years that Incat built fast ships have held the record for the fastest Transatlantic Crossing.  

On 23 June 1990 Hoverspeed Great Britain, a ship (Incat hull 025) built by Incat in Tasmania, for operation between England and France by Sea Containers Ltd, broke the record for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean by a commercial passenger ship. The crossing from Ambrose Light at New York commenced at 7.30pm on June 19, 1990 ending her 2922 mile trip at Bishop Rock in the UK on the morning of 23 June.  

The Hales Trophy is awarded to "The Ship which shall for the time being, have crossed the Atlantic Ocean at the highest average speed".. …So it is not simply reaching the highest speed momentarily, the right to fly the Blue Riband is a test of endurance as well, because the high speed needs to be maintained over the entire crossing (naturally slower at the beginning with a full fuel load and becoming faster at the end of the journey).

The previous record had been held for 38 years by the SS United States (1952 - 1990), prior to the SS United States win, the great liners vied for the honour to fly the Blue Riband. The Incat built high speed catamaran Hoverspeed Great Britain, which broke the record winning  the Hales Trophy on 23 June 1990, held the record and the owners held the Trophy, until 1998 when another Incat built ship Catalonia took the record in June 1998, then just a month later in July 1998 yet another ship built by Incat, CatLink V broke the record. It was the first time in the history of the transatlantic records (dating back to the 1860s) that three ships to win the trophy in succession had been built by the same shipyard.

There have been no challenges to the record which was set in July 1998, and none in sight.  The current record is 41.284 knots (76.5 km/ per hour) average over two days, 20 hours and 9 minutes. The Hales Trophy is a heavily gilded ornate trophy over one metre in height and is on display in the Fast Ferry Museum located at the Incat shipyard in Hobart.  The ship then known as Hoverspeed Great Britain is now operating as Cosmos Jet for Sea Jets in Greece.  

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What's The Fastest Boat That Has Crossed the Atlantic Ocean?

October 18, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Destriero holds the record as the fastest boat to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
• It completed the journey in 58 hours and 34 minutes.
• The Destriero set a record-breaking speed of 45.7 knots during its Atlantic crossing.
• The boat's incredible speed showcases advancements in marine technology.
• High-speed boat crossings have a significant impact on the environment.

‍ Curious about the fastest Atlantic Ocean crossing by a boat? Discover record-breaking voyages and maritime speed feats.

The fastest boat that has crossed the Atlantic Ocean is the 68-meter luxury yacht Destriero, which achieved this feat in 2 days, 10 hours, 34 minutes, and 47 seconds. This boat averaged a remarkable 45.7 knots (84.6 km/h or 52.6 mph) during its record-breaking journey in August 1992.

With a deep passion for maritime endeavors, I’ve spent years studying the records, vessels, and individuals who have pushed the boundaries of speed on the Atlantic. My commitment to uncovering and sharing these remarkable feats is evident in my comprehensive understanding of this topic. Rest assured, my expertise will provide an insightful journey through the world of the fastest boat crossings, offering a profound appreciation for the remarkable achievements of seafaring adventurers and their vessels.

Table of contents

‍ fastest boat across the atlantic ocean.

When talking about the fastest boat across the Atlantic, a few contenders come to mind. Among them, the Destriero is notably impressive.

It is the fastest boat across the Atlantic . This Italian luxury yacht holds the record with an Atlantic crossing time of 2 days, 10 hours, 34 minutes, and 47 seconds.

Operated by skipper Cesare Fiorio, the Destriero averaged an incredible speed of 45.7 knots during the voyage in 1992.

Previous Records

The history of the fastest boats crossing the Atlantic Ocean is fascinating. The title was held by various vessels over the years, many of which competed for the prestigious Blue Riband Award and the Hales Trophy.

The Blue Riband was given to boats holding the record for the fastest westbound crossing, with the trophy representing the highest achievement in maritime speed.

A notable previous record holder was the ocean liner SS United States, built in the early 1950s, which held the record for more than a decade. It completed the crossing in 3 days, 10 hours, and 42 minutes.

Another previous record for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean by a boat is held by the Hoverspeed Great Britain. On June 23, 1990, this Incat-built ship completed the journey in 3 days, 7 hours, and 54 minutes, breaking previous records and setting a remarkable new standard for maritime speed.

Technical Features of the Boats

Now, let’s explore the technical features of the boats that have set records for speed while crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Construction and Design

Destriero and the Hoverspeed Great Britain are both made of aluminum, but Destriero features a monohull design, while the Hoverspeed Great Britain is designed as a catamaran.

In contrast, the SS United States, built several decades earlier, is primarily constructed from steel and also features a monohull design.

The following table summarizes the construction and design of these boats:

Historical Context

The Atlantic Ocean has been a vital part of maritime history, connecting continents and facilitating trade, travel, and the exchange of ideas. Throughout history, vessels have swiftly sought ways to cross the Atlantic, from the early days of the Christopher Columbus voyage to modern technological advancements.

We’ll explore the fastest boats that have crossed the Atlantic and how they evolved over time.

World War II saw significant improvements in maritime technology, with ships becoming faster and more efficient. One notable example is the SS United States, a liner that held the transatlantic crossing speed record of 3.5 days in 1952. However, the advent of air transportation diminished the importance of these grand liners.

In the early days of transatlantic crossings, steamship voyages took notably longer. For instance, in August 1838, the steamship Great Western completed its trailblazing voyage from New York to Bristol in 15 days.

Additionally, Philadelphia, Italy, and other countries have contributed to the development of fast and reliable ships. Some vessels, such as the majestic RMS Titanic, have become symbols of luxury and grandeur.

As we explore the history of the fastest boats crossing the Atlantic Ocean and delve into the notable achievements and advances they represent, it becomes evident that the spirit of competition and technological innovation has been integral to the story.

Maritime achievements of the past, including the impressive record set by the Hoverspeed Great Britain, inspire future explorations and improvements in maritime transportation.

The Races Over the Years

Over the years, numerous races and records have been set for the fastest boat to cross the Atlantic Ocean. These competitions have attracted a variety of participants, witnessed incredible victories, and even sparked a few controversies.

Here, we’ll delve into the notable participants, some of the most significant victories, and the controversies that have arisen as boats have vied to claim the title of the fastest Atlantic crossing.

The Participants

Throughout the history of Atlantic crossings, various types of vessels have taken part in these races. Each has attempted to make its mark in this prestigious contest, from early passenger liners to modern high-speed catamarans.

The participants have included dedicated race teams, professional sailors, and even private boat owners who have all sought to test the limits of their vessels and crews.

The Victories

As mentioned, the current record holder for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean is the Destriero. In 1992, this impressively designed boat, measuring 68 meters in length, 13 meters in beam, and boasting 60,000 horsepower, managed to achieve an average speed of over 60 knots.

This incredible achievement remains unbeaten to date, and the Destriero still stands as a symbol of Italian pride and nautical engineering prowess.

Another major prize for Atlantic crossings is the Blue Riband, awarded to the passenger liner with the record for the highest average speed during a regular transatlantic voyage. This illustrious accolade has been held by a number of famous ships throughout history, including the RMS Queen Mary and the SS United States.

The Controversies

As with any competitive environment, the pursuit of breaking records in Atlantic crossings has not been without its share of controversies. There have been disputes over the legitimacy of some records due to differences in routes or vessel classifications.

Concerns over safety and environmental impacts related to high-speed crossings have also arisen, sparking debate within the maritime community.

Ecological Impact and Sustainability

As we delve into the world of high-speed boat crossings in the Atlantic Ocean, it's essential to understand the ecological impact of these vessels and the sustainability practices adopted by crews.

High-speed boat crossings often generate a significant carbon footprint, as they require vast amounts of fuel and energy to propel the vessels across the Atlantic Ocean at record speeds.

However, several innovative solutions have been implemented by record-setting crews to minimize their ecological impact. These efforts include the use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and underwater turbines, to generate electricity during crossings.

Moreover, sustainable practices on board the vessels, such as waste reduction and recycling, are essential to ensure a more eco-friendly voyage. Crews also make conscious efforts to avoid sensitive marine areas and follow designated routes to minimize disturbances to marine ecosystems.

These practices contribute significantly to responsible voyaging across the Atlantic Ocean.

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About THE AUTHOR

Brian Samson

I have a deep love of houseboating and the life-changing experiences houseboating has brought into my life. I’ve been going to Lake Powell on our family’s houseboat for over 30 years and have made many great memories, first as a child and now as a parent. My family has a passion for helping others have similar fun, safe experiences on their houseboat.

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Comanche sets new Transatlantic Race record

Related articles, superyacht directory.

The 30.48 metre sailing yacht Comanche has set a new monohull race record after taking Monohull Line Honours in the 2022 RORC Transatlantic Race.

Skippered by Mitch Booth, Comanche and its crew completed the 3,000 nautical mile race from Lanzarote to Grenada in seven days, 22 hours, 1 minute and 4 seconds (that's two days quicker than the previous record holder).

Constructed in carbon fibre by American builder Hodgdon to a design by VPLP/Verdier Maxi, the yacht was delivered in 2014 after being commissioned by software mogul Jim Clark.

This is not the first time Comanche has tasted success – since its launch the yacht has set several speed records, most notably sailing from New York’s Ambrose Lighthouse to the UK’s Lizard Point in five and a half days in 2016.

The sailing yacht also finished in second place during the 2014 Sydney Hobart race and broke a 24-hour record in the 2015 Transatlantic Race after covering 618 nautical miles in one day.

Described as a “Laser dinghy or 49er morphed with rocket ship” by BOAT’ International's own Marilyn Mower , Comanche ’s defining feature is its comparatively wide 7.6 metre beam which helps save weight, in turn increasing its speed.

Other notable features include its rig which rises 47 metres above the water and a solid stainless steel keel.

Comanche is the largest yacht entered in the 2022 RORC Transatlantic Race and the team must now wait until the remaining competitors have crossed the finish line, to see if any of the 21 teams performing can eclipse their corrected time.

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The Tactical Air Network

Global Military Aviation

The SR-71’s Record-Breaking Transatlantic Crossing

September 1st, 1974, was pretty much just another average day for New Yorkers. It didn’t look like either the Yankees or the Mets would make the playoffs (neither did), and the temperature was in the high-70s (Fahrenheit) at the tail end of yet another long, hot summer. Most were unaware of what was unfolding in the skies above them at altitudes closer to the edge of space than the regular cruising heights of the glistening airliners belonging to Pan Am, TWA and other carriers of the time. Controllers on the ground at LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport were well-informed ahead of time of what would soon be streaking over their heads, departing just as quickly as it appeared.

Meanwhile, Majors James V. Sullivan and Noel F. Widdifield, the pilot and reconnaissance systems officer (RSO) respectively of the sleek black jet ripping through the airspace over New York, were steeling themselves with mere seconds left on the clock before they began a record-setting flight- the fastest Transatlantic crossing in history. Their chariot was none other than the fastest manned jet in history (at least that we know of), an aircraft that looked more like something out of a science fiction comic book than a conventional design that would come off the drafting tables at one of the most well-established aerospace corporations in the country. Their Lockheed SR-71A Blackbird, serial number 64-17972, was slated to function as a static display showpiece at the Farnborough Air Show for a week- the very first time the top secret spy plane was shown off outside the United States. US Air Force and Lockheed Corp. officials had agreed to and planned the flight over, which would see the the Blackbird cross imaginary gates over New York and speed over to another set of imaginary gates set up over London. At the time, New York City-to-London was arguably one of the most popular Transatlantic routes available to travelers; at least those who could afford it. Airlines regularly strove to decrease the time taken to travel between the two cities, culminating in the introduction of Concorde, the supersonic delta-winged European airliner which was retired just 12 years ago. The Concorde still holds the record for the fastest airliner crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, with a time of 2 hours, 52 minutes, 59 seconds, right from takeoff at London Heathrow International (LHR) to John F. Kennedy (JFK) in February of 1996. However, it still doesn’t come close to what Sullivan and Widdifield were able to pull off that September day, 22 years before Concorde’s record-setting flight.

US Senator Barry Goldwater was responsible for bringing about the Transatlantic crossing, after having flown as a passenger in a Blackbird himself. Having retired from the Air Force Reserves in 1967 as a Major General, and possessing significant political clout due to his lengthy career as a politician in Congress, Goldwater was able to convince then-US President Gerald R. Ford to allow the Air Force to fly a Blackbird to Farnborough for the rest of the world to see, thus demonstrating the power and might of American innovation and engineering. When Ford approved of the trip, the Blackbird’s parent wing’s commanding officer picked out two crews to fly one of his birds to and from the air show. Though the SR-71 wouldn’t be performing its usual reconnaissance overflights, operations personnel planned out the whole event as though it was a regular mission. Air bases for emergency diverts were assigned, radio frequencies for tanker and ground control communications were listed and no detail was left out.

The Blackbird, belonging to a reconnaissance squadron in California on the west coast of the United States, was slated to link up with a KC-135Q Stratotanker, one of a specially-modified fleet available exclusively to support the Blackbird program. Being that the Blackbird was already at approximately 2000 miles per hour when crossing the New York gates, it needed a minimum of one in-flight refueling, thanks to the astonishing amount of fuel it consumed while in afterburner. The route was calculated at around 3461.53 miles, and radio coordination between controllers in New York and London would ensure the highest degree of accuracy in timing the Blackbird’s flight across. Having already surged across the Atlantic in a sustained supersonic cruise at speeds in excess of Mach 2.5-2.6 (the Blackbird was actually capable of hitting Mach 3.5, and cruising at around Mach 3.2-3.3), Sullivan began a descent that would bring him to the only refueling point of their mission. After tanking up, the duo climbed away and once again nudged the throttles ahead. The time taken up by the in-flight refueling was deemed virtually negligible when the Blackbird flew through the London gates. Overall, the flight had taken 1 hour, 54 minutes and 56.4 seconds, and maintained an average speed of about 1807 miles per hour. Just about an hour less than what the Concorde would accomplish 22 years later. Upon observing his brainchild set the Transatlantic speed record (which still remains today), Clarence “Kelly” Johnson, who was flown over to Farnborough to receive the aircraft upon its arrival, proudly remarked, “It has exceeded all my expectations.”

The exact same Blackbird, flown by a different aircrew (Captain “Buck” Adams and Major William Machorek (pilot/RSO)) for the return flight to the US, set yet another speed record by flying from London to Los Angeles (5447 miles) in 3 hours, 47 minutes and 39 seconds at an average speed of 1435 miles per hour. If the Federal Aviation Authority and the Air Force hadn’t imposed speed restrictions on the aircraft, especially over a number of US cities it flew over on its run, the time it took would have probably cut down even further. Even with the restrictions put in place, local police departments and military switchboards were lit up with reports of sonic booms and resultant shattered windows. Years later, the very same Blackbird would once again set a number of records including the fastest time for a Los Angeles-to-Washington, DC cross-country route on its very last flight to its current resting place, the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum. On March 6th, 1990, Lieutenant Colonels Ed Yeilding and Joseph Vida (pilot and RSO respectively) flew Blackbird 64-17972 from Palmdale, California to Dulles International Airport, just outside of DC, averaging 2124 miles per hour and finishing the flight within 1 hour, 4 minutes and 20 seconds; another record that hasn’t been broken and likely will remain in place for years and years to come. This also happened to be the last SENIOR CROWN (the USAF’s official name for the Blackbird program) flight in history. Today, 64-17972 sits on permanent display at the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy annex to the National Air and Space Museum.

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How To Cross the Atlantic, Routes and Timelines

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Before the time of ocean liners and airplanes, crossing the Atlantic used to be a great adventure that took a long time to complete. Nowadays, it’s very different; it’s still a great adventure, but the time it takes to complete has changed.

Here’s how long it takes to cross the Atlantic on various types of boats.

Looking at this table we can clearly see that the time it takes to cross the Atlantic has decreased exponentially. Some big developments were of course the steam engine that allowed for bigger and much faster ships to travel the Atlantic while also bringing a lot more cargo.

If we look at the Sailboats in this list, we can see that the more hulls you have the faster it goes (if you want to know more about how that works, check out this article)

There is not a significant difference in time to complete between the catamarans and the trimarans in the short run, but in a circumnavigation of the world, the difference can be huge.

A monohull on the other hand is slower, this is mainly due to the amount of drag this type of hull has.

This table compares different types of boats under the same conditions and adds an airplane as a point of reference.

Transatlantic Crossing in Record Time

Here are the records for the fastest crossings of the Atlantic in a Sailboat.

The 2880 Nautical miles(5330 Km) long route starts at Ambrose Light in New York and finishes on an imaginary line between Lizard Point and Ushant of the coast of England

As you might have noticed, there aren’t any numbers for catamarans since the  classes are divided between monohulls and multihulls.  Since trimarans (three hulls) are faster than catamarans (two hulls), there is no real point in racing a cat.

What you also may have noticed are the ridiculously high speeds these boats are doing. Bear in mind that these are racing boats optimized for speed and made to smash world records.

There’s a big difference between the 28 knots a racing trimaran will make and the 9 knots a cruising catamaran will.

What Type of Sailboat Do You Need To Cross The Atlantic?

Crossing the Atlantic can be done in almost any sailboat or ship. As a matter of fact, it has already been done in small rowboats and open catamarans, so everything is possible.

If your question is what boat should I use to get a somewhat comfortable and safe trip, well, then we have something to talk about.

Choosing between a monohull or a multihull has more to do with personal preferences. Some people really like the stable platform of a catamaran, and others dont think it’s a real way of sailing and wants to be heeling over to its side to fully get that true sailing experience.

For me? Catamaran every day, speed, and comfort, but I’m also not a purist sailor in any way. I’m an adventurist, and the boat is merely a way to experience adventures.

The size I would say matters, bigger usually means it’s safer and can handle bigger waves, although it might be harder to handle on your own I something happens to you or your crew mid-sea.

Most people seem to cross the Atlantic with a boat in the 35 -45 ft spectrum, which fulfills both requirements!

If you are interested in digging deeper into what sized boat you should get, check out my article on Best Sized Catamaran for Ocean Sailin g

Other aspects you might consider are the  size in terms of space onboard , how many people are you doing the passage with, the more people, the easier operating the boat will be. This assumes you have a well-trained crew that you know well.

And what are you going to do once you get there, is it the end of your trip or is the beginning. If you’re doing everything just to cross the ocean and then get someone else to bring it back, that’s one thing. But if its the start of a long adventure, the requirements are different. You are going to want more space for scuba gear, and other toys.

I do think the most important aspect is that you have a seaworthy boat that it’s capable of withstanding weeks on end with sailing in many times rough conditions.

This means that your equipment spent has to be the most expensive and handy, but it needs to be in good condition, and you need to be able to handle your great in every weather.

What Gear Do You Need to Cross the Atlantic?

Not including your average stuff when sailing, such as life vests, etc. There are some great that you might not be on your everyday say m still that could be of high importance during such a formidable sail as this.

• Emergency food
• Satellite coms
• Storm drogue (want to know what it is and how it works,  read  this)
• Spare parts(tiller, sails, etc.)
• Entertainment

Different Routes to Cross the Atlantic

Westward route: europe to the caribbean.

According to Jimmy Cornell, a well-known sailor and circumnavigator that has made his own research on the subject, Las Palmas is one of the biggest ports of departure for sailboats crossing the Atlantic.

Around 75’% of the sailboats that arrive in Las Palmas on the Canary Islands will depart for an Ocean crossing.

Getting to The Canary Islands, you should not be in a hurry; there are many very beautiful places en route. No matter where you are coming from this is a good stop well worth a visit.

Coming from the north of Europe, you have France, Spain, and Portugal. Entering from the Mediterranean, you have Italy, Croatia, Greece, and so many other interesting places that you shouldn’t miss unless you’re on a very tight schedule.

Once you reach Las Palmas, you can either go straight towards the Caribbean island of Barbados, or you can do a stop along the way at Cap Verde.

Planing a Stop on Cape Verde

A stop at cap Verde makes sense in many ways; for one, it makes the transatlantic trip more manageable by dividing it into two sections.

The second reason is that it gives you the possibility to stock up on fuel and water that you might have used more than you thought. Since Cap Verde is well developed when it comes to receiving boats doing this type of passage, there is no technical expertise on the island.

From Cap Verde, you can also take a direct flight to Portugal and onwards if the need arises.

Even though you might not plan to stop here, the recommendation is to at least  plan your sailing, so you pass close to the islands,  so if something happens, you can head to Mindelo port and fix it.

Another good reason why you would go close is that the further south you go, the  better chance you will have of catching those sweet tradewinds  that will take you safely and enjoyably to the warm waters of the Caribbean.

Westbound Route On a Catamaran

Sailing west is the preferred option for any sailor and especially if you are on a boat that doesn’t sail perfectly upwind, such as a catamaran.

Sailin g west and using the tradewinds is perfect on a catamaran, the sail will be faster and more comfortable than a monohull of the same size.

Looking at the 2019 ARC (Atlantic Rally for Cruisers), a 55ft french catamaran outclassed the 65 ft professionally sailed monohull with a 10-hour lead. All this while doing yoga on board, something that I can promise was not happening on the monohull.

The stable platform of a catamaran with the wind on your stern makes sailing west on a transatlantic passage perfect for Catamaran.

Eastbound Route: The Caribbean to Europe

Coming back to Europe, I would argue that the same principles are still valid: to stop at or pass by islands close enough to have the option of going into port if need, and using the tradewinds to your advantage.

Considering this, most people leave the Caribbean from Tortola, Britsh virgin islands, or St Marteen. These make great starting points for the eastward journey since they are the last point where there is plenty of fuel, spare parts, and food for the long and sometimes arduous trip back to Europe.

Though it is not necessary, many sailors make a halt at Bermuda; this is a good start to fix anything broken or wait for the right weather before your head on to the next part of your trip.

The Azores, the same goes here, you can skip it, but staying close to it adds safety and comfort if needed, and I would also stop by just to enjoy the islands. It’s a beautiful place and good for a few days of low-intensity cruising.

If you still have some energy left after the trip from Bermuda, one option is to head for a place called Horta. The place is well remembered for its hospitality towards sailors heading towards Europe.

Once you have refueled on diesel and energy, it is time to head for northern Europe. This is usually done by sailing north until the 45th latitude and then heading east.

When is The Best Time to Cross The Atlantic

Choosing a route has a lot to do with your intended purpose of the trip, are you going for a speed record, then going more north might be an option, and accepting the risk might be ok for you and your crew.

If you are going west but more interested in doing it safely and are able to spend a little more time out at sea, then the southern routes mentioned above with a departure date around November and December.

Going west on your way to the Caribbean, you’ll notice the days are getting warmer and longer; this is because going west, you also travel south towards the equator where the days and nights are equally as long be it summer or winter.

This weather window is to avoid the hurricane season in the Caribbean that ends in late November, these are the main risk and must be considered in your plan.

What Is The Best Route For an Atlantic Crossing

Taking into consideration the information above with trade winds, the possibility of breakdowns, and the collective knowledge of the area.

The best route for a westbound Atlantic crossing is from Las Palmas (on the Island of Gran Canarias) to Barbados Via Cap Verde. The best route going east is from St Marteen to the Azores Via Bermuda.

This is, of course, based on the assumptions we have discussed above, and it might not apply to your skillset or aim of the crossing.

Can You Cross the Atlantic Single Handed?

You can definitely cross the Atlantic on your own (short-handed). As a matter of fact, many do every year. Of course, this demands more of the sailor since there is nobody to ask for advice or to help while underway.

Neither is there anyone that will help you with handling sails or maintenance while underway; because of this, it is more dangerous and more difficult to solo sailor sail short-handed as it is also called.

The usual way is to either bring a crew of your own, recruit a crew from the port of exit, or find one online via crewseeker.net.

Is Transatlantic Passages Dangerous?

Sailing in big oceans is never a hundred percent safe. This is why it is an adventure if it was absolutely safe, where would the attractiveness and the excitement lie?

Looking at the data, there aren’t many accidents happening, and of those, there are even fewer that are deadly or leave the crew injured for life.

There are also ways to make it safer; we have discussed boat size and crew skills; other route selection factors are vital. It might not be the quickest to cross the Atlantic, but the southern route seems to be a safer bet.

Prepare yourself, your crew, and the boat, and the chances for accidents will still be there, but they will be small and manageable.

How Lonely Is Crossing The Atlantic?

Spending two to three weeks in the middle of the ocean can definitely be lonely, but it can also be the absolute opposite. If you’re sailing with a crew, you will share the same small space with everyone else, always bumping your elbow. If the weather is rough, you may all be a little tired, which also adds to the group dynamics.

But even if you would get sick and tired of your crew, there are ways to call back home. You might have a Satellite phone, which is expensive by the minute but a lovely way to hear the voice of a loved one back at land. Much better than a text message through Email.

Sending emails has been a pretty straightforward process since the SSB radio started to be utilized.  This type of radio is very simplistic and has good reception up to thousands of miles .

The nice thing with this radio is that it allows for data traffic, which means not only are you able to receive weather updates, but you can also contact your family through Email.

Can You Get Rescued If Something Goes Wrong?

Yes, there might not be a coast guard or anything nearby, and you might be way out to sea, but there is help to get. Since every ship is listening to some set of frequencies, usually, the first step is to call for a Mayday on that channel.

If you’re not getting anyone’s attention, then they might still see you on the AIS, Automatic Identification System, which makes anyone around you know where you are.

Many times the crossing is done together with a lot of other vessels; this gives comfort as they might also be able to help in case of emergency.

If all this fails, you probably also will have your EPIRB,  Emergency  Position Indicating Radio  Beacon , which is a gadget that can be activated through certain triggers such as water, tilt angle, or manually activated.

Once activated, it sends an emergency signal at different frequencies and relays the information back to shore for someone to come help you.

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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The fastest ocean liner to cross the Atlantic faces eviction from a pier

Matt Guilhem

In 1952, the SS United States won the famed Blue Riband, the prize given to the fastest ship to cross the Atlantic. On the record-setting maiden voyage, the ship went so fast some of the paint on the hull was sheared off by the sea. Courtesy SS United States Conservancy hide caption

In 1952, the SS United States won the famed Blue Riband, the prize given to the fastest ship to cross the Atlantic. On the record-setting maiden voyage, the ship went so fast some of the paint on the hull was sheared off by the sea.

The fastest ocean liner to ever cross the Atlantic — in both directions — has been languishing at a pier in south Philadelphia for more than twenty-five years. However, the days of the rusting SS United States calling at Pier 82 in the City of Brotherly Love are likely numbered. The 990 ft. ship that's bigger than the Titanic is facing eviction.

On her maiden voyage in 1952, the SS United States won the coveted Blue Riband from Great Britain. What came to be called "America's Flagship" crossed the Atlantic in 3 days, 10 hours, and 40 minutes — besting the time set by the RMS Queen Mary by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the record.

That speed is no accident; the U.S. government helped pay for the ship. If the Cold War had heated up, the vessel could've quickly been converted to a troopship that could carry some 14,000 soldiers 10,000 miles without refueling.

Some of the biggest celebrities of the 1950s and 60s sailed aboard the SS United States, including film icon Marlon Brando and surrealist artist Salvador Dali. Courtesy SS United States Conservancy hide caption

Some of the biggest celebrities of the 1950s and 60s sailed aboard the SS United States, including film icon Marlon Brando and surrealist artist Salvador Dali.

In spite of the once classified design elements that went into the ship and a who's who of glamorous passengers that included stars and presidents, the vessel's retirement has seen it stare down scrapping a few times.

The latest threat, and potentially most dire, is a lawsuit from Pier 82's landlord.

"The lawsuit was brought by Penn Warehousing to evict the ship and to collect some $700,000 — $800,000 worth of what they allege was back rent," says Warren Jones.

He's a board member of the SS United States Conservancy , the nonprofit that's owned and overseen the vessel since 2011. He also sailed on the ship when he was 7 years old in 1961.

The SS United States has been at Pier 82 in south Philadelphia for more than 25 years The elements have taken a toll on the vessel. The giant ship looms large over south Philly and can be seen from nearby I-95. Matt Guilham hide caption

The SS United States has been at Pier 82 in south Philadelphia for more than 25 years The elements have taken a toll on the vessel. The giant ship looms large over south Philly and can be seen from nearby I-95.

The conservancy claims Penn Warehousing unjustly doubled the rent during the pandemic for keeping the huge ship at Pier 82. The daily cost of mooring the vessel along the Delaware River jumped from $850 to $1,700.

"The rental agreement that they wrote and presented to us had no provision in it for escalating the rent and it even had no time limit on the lease as well," says Jones.

The ship was already at Pier 82 when the conservancy bought the vessel and entered into the agreement more than a decade ago.

Neither Penn Warehousing nor their attorneys responded to requests for comment.

Both sides argued their case before a federal judge, and the fate of the ship now rests in the hands of the court. Even if the conservancy prevails and the vessel can remain at Pier 82, the writing is on the wall.

"The ship needs a new home," says Susan Gibbs, the head of the SS United States Conservancy and the granddaughter of its designer, famed naval architect William Francis Gibbs.

Susan Gibbs is the head of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of the ship's designer William Francis Gibbs. She views the ship as a powerful and unifying symbol. Gibbs fears if the ship is evicted it could be lost forever. Matt Guilham for NPR hide caption

Susan Gibbs is the head of the SS United States Conservancy and granddaughter of the ship's designer William Francis Gibbs. She views the ship as a powerful and unifying symbol. Gibbs fears if the ship is evicted it could be lost forever.

Standing on the bridge of the mothballed ocean liner, taking in the view of the ship's sleek lines and sharp bow, Gibbs says the vessel's moment has come.

"She's ready to bust a move," Gibbs says. "She's been here long enough; she's ready to go to the next port of call."

While the conservancy has a multi-million dollar redevelopment plan for the ship that would see it return to the base of its transatlantic operations in Manhattan, that next port of call is a big question mark.

"There are a number of different possibilities, and we are open to any of them at this point," says Gibbs. "Time is of the essence."

New York, Florida, even staying in Philly have all been floated as possible options for where the ship may go. The conservancy said it would be open to the prospect of the West Coast if a space that could accommodate the liner could be found.

After decades of exposure to the elements, the SS United States looks every day of her 72 years. Rust has tinted vast swaths of the ship a ruddy hue, and the hull looks scaly and reptilian because of the flaking black paint. The vessel may be lacking cosmetically, but she's still got it where it counts.

"What's encouraging is that despite the peeling paint and the rust that we see as we are walking down the halls of the ship, she is still structurally sound," Gibbs says.

Her fellow conservancy member, Warren Jones, also says that while the ship could use more than a nip and a tuck on the outside, the bones are solid.

"The hull of the ship has been inspected over and over and over again at various points, and all the reports come back and it's in remarkable good shape," says Jones. "You just feel the solid structure of the ship as you walk these decks."

While the interior of the ship was essentially gutted during asbestos removal in the 1990s, the curvy original bar that served up countless martinis and old fashioneds remains intact. Matt Guilham for NPR hide caption

While the interior of the ship was essentially gutted during asbestos removal in the 1990s, the curvy original bar that served up countless martinis and old fashioneds remains intact.

Although the public hasn't had access to the vessel for ages, the conservancy is hoping the ship's next chapter has it full of life once again. Initially drawn up with New York City in mind, Jones says the redevelopment plan of the ship could be made to fit any port that'll have her. Along with a specialized dock for the old liner, the plan would transform the SS United States itself.

"It includes a refurbishment of the ship, entertainment venues, dining, a thousand-key hotel onboard," says Jones.

All of that, however, is up in the air. If the ship gets evicted, the conservancy believes the vessel could be lost forever. Berths for thousand-foot ocean liners that can't power themselves and have been out of operation since the Nixon administration aren't readily available. So, the conservancy has taken an unprecedented step.

"We have issued an appeal to the president and a number of congressional leaders," says Gibbs. "The time has come. This ship is imperiled, and it's all hands on deck."

The three-page letter addressed to President Biden succinctly lays out the vessel's storied history and the potential for repurposing it. The conservancy is so concerned the end may be near, it would be open to gifting the ship to the government: "The Conservancy is even willing to donate the ship to the National Park Service, the state of Pennsylvania, or other entities in exchange for a viable pier location."

The vessel's champions are clear-eyed that "America's Flagship" doesn't have much time left in Philly. If it's evicted, there's no telling if the next port of call is a safe haven or the scrap heap.

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A new dawn may be coming to the SS United States , the fastest ocean liner ever, which has been tied up at a pier in Philadelphia since 1996. The ship is 990 feet long, more than a hundred feet longer than the Titanic.

The World’s Fastest Ocean Liner May Be Restored to Sail Again

Tied to a pier in Philadelphia for 20 years, the rusted, stripped, but still majestic S.S. United States could return to service as a luxury cruise ship.

In July 1952, on its maiden voyage, the S.S. United States shattered the record for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic by a passenger ship, steaming from New York to Le Havre in less than four days. In 1969, when it went into dry dock in Newport News, Virginia, and its crew members left their belongings in their cabins, not knowing they’d never sail on it again, it still held the record. And it still does today—though it’s been retired for nearly 47 years, and motionless at a pier in Philadelphia for nearly 20.

On the enclosed promenade deck, first-class passengers once strolled and lounged in deck chairs. First class was at the center of the ship, where the motion was gentlest; cabin class was at the stern and tourist class at the bow.

“The ship is a little worse for wear,” Susan Gibbs said not long ago as we toured the rusting hulk. She is the granddaughter of the ship’s designer, William Francis Gibbs. “But it’s important to keep in mind that she was so overbuilt, she’s still structurally sound. The bones are solid. So it’s not a pipe dream to imagine she could be resurrected.”

On February 4, Crystal Cruises announced that it had signed an option to purchase the ship from the S.S. United States Conservancy , the nonprofit that Gibbs directs. Crystal—a subsidiary of a cruise-and-resort company called Genting Hong Kong —plans to spend this year studying the feasibility of restoring the United States as a luxury cruise vessel, which could cost as much as $700 million. In the meantime it will pay the $60,000 or so a month it costs to maintain the ship.

In the first-class dining room you can still see the stanchions that fixed the tables to the floors. On the back wall there was a sculpture of nymph-like figures representing the Four Freedoms.

Last fall those monthly costs were threatening to doom the great ship to a sad fate: hauled out by its anchor chains onto some Texas beach and scrapped. “I thought she was going down,” said Gibbs. But the Conservancy launched a last-ditch appeal that brought new interest and enough cash from the ship’s many fans to allow it to hang on a few more months. Against all odds, it now has a chance to return to sea. The ship’s age will make that a challenge; all sorts of standards have changed.

Among the Conservancy’s FAQ on the ship, I found this entry: “How do I research whether one of my ancestors traveled on the S.S. United States ?” Since I myself crossed the Atlantic three times on the ship, that shivered my timbers a bit.

Paint is peeling in great shards all over the ship, but at the stern, the railing is also bashed in. An accident happened when a crane was removing one of the propellers some years back.

If the United States were a building, it would be a National Historical Landmark. If it were an airplane, it would be in the Smithsonian. Because it’s an ocean liner—and surely one of the most beautiful, with its gracile lines and stacks swept back as if by the wind—it’s tied up at a pier on the Delaware River, between freighters offloading fruit and cocoa. When you stand on its bow today, you gaze not at foaming Atlantic breakers but across Christopher Columbus Boulevard at a Longhorn Steakhouse and a Lowe’s home improvement store.

“Why does this nation forget its historical accomplishments?” Gibbs mused as we took refuge in the Longhorn restaurant from a blustery January day. “Why is this ship languishing in obscurity?”

In the first-class ballroom, imagine cocktail tables and red barrel chairs surrounding the linoleum dance floor, which is still there. The bar isn’t original; it was brought in a few years ago for a movie shoot.

Through the venetian blinds we could see its blade-like bow, ready to slice across traffic into our booth. The shape of the hull below the water line was one of the secrets of the ship’s tremendous speed—and it was a military secret, as the United States was designed to be converted into a troopship in time of war (though it never was).

Classified too, until the 1970s, were the ship’s four, 18-foot bronze propellers. They were designed by an engineer named Elaine Kaplan. According to A Man and His Ship , a biography by Steven Ujifusa , William Francis Gibbs couldn’t quite comprehend that an attractive woman could be an excellent engineer—but he prized excellence above all else, and so he lived with that paradox.

Looking straight at the bow highlights the ship’s slender lines, which were made possible in part by the light-weight aluminum superstructure.

Gibbs himself, though he designed one of the greatest ships of the 20th century, as well as 2,700 Liberty ships during World War II, had no formal training in his craft. After getting a law degree from Columbia University, he’d lasted only a year as a lawyer. But he’d been drawing ships since 1894 when, as an eight-year-old boy, he’d watched the launch of a 550-foot steamship, the S.S. St. Louis, in the Delaware River, a few miles upriver from where the United States now floats.

In 1913, in his father’s attic, he began drawing what nearly four decades later would become the United States —a 990-foot ship intended, Ujifusa writes, “to be the fastest and best ever built, intended to surpass the ill-fated Titanic in every respect.” It was the year after the iceberg incident.

This way to tourist class (just kidding). A service ladder descends into the bowels of the ship near the stern.

Decades later, when Gibbs finally got the chance to design his ship in reality, he divided it into 20 watertight-compartments so a mere iceberg couldn’t sink it. He made it close to fireproof—he’d watched the Normandie burn and capsize at the pier in Manhattan—in part by using no wood on board except in the Steinway grand pianos. And he made it lightweight by building almost the entire superstructure of aluminum, giving it a power-to-weight ratio the seas had never seen.

In sea trials the United States broke 38 knots. On its record-setting maiden voyage, operating at two-thirds of full steam, it averaged more than 35 knots, four knots faster than the Queen Mary ’s record. As it was breaking the speed record, passengers were dancing conga lines down the promenade deck.

The swimming pool had large gutters to catch sloshing water as the ship rolled. First and cabin classes had access at different times; tourist class was out of luck.

Into the Depths

From that enclosed, sun-striped gallery, 400 feet long on each side of the ship, Susan Gibbs and I penetrated with flashlights into the engine room, to the edge of the swimming pool—back in its water-filled days you would slosh back and forth as the ship rolled—and even into the morgue, where the occasional unfortunate traveler was chilled until landfall.

All the furnishings, from the ship’s wheel to the silverware, were ripped out and auctioned off in the 1980s by a real estate developer. The next owner had the ship towed to Ukraine to rip out the interior walls: They were filled with that miraculous fire-retardant, asbestos. Today only the outlines of the cabins remain on bare floors; the toilet holes are the most recognizable feature. I was unable to locate the cabin where I had discovered seasickness.

On the United States, eight boilers made steam to drive four turbines that could generate more than 240,000 horsepower. It shattered the transatlantic speed record without ever running at full steam.

After the maiden voyage, William Francis Gibbs never sailed on his masterpiece again—and yet “he was obsessively devoted to the ship,” said Susan Gibbs. When the United States was at sea he would call on the ship-to-shore radio every day for a status report. Every two weeks when she returned to New York, he would rise at dawn and have his chauffeur drive him out to Brooklyn so he could watch her steam through the Narrows—then race over to Pier 82 on the west side of Manhattan to be there when she docked. His wife Vera claimed he took pictures of the ship to bed. Vera had a separate bedroom.

In its storage room below deck the chain of one of the ship’s anchors disappears into the shaft that leads to the sea.

Susan Gibbs never sailed on the United States . Her grandfather died when she was five and she barely knew him, or of him. Her own father, Frank Gibbs, never spoke of the great man.

When Frank died, she went through his belongings hoping to learn more about him. But she mostly found memorabilia about her grandfather. There were profiles in Fortune and The New Yorker. There was his portrait on the cover of Time, which dubbed him a “technological revolutionist.” Something clicked; a diluted version of the obsession that had animated that strange aloof man passed to his granddaughter. She went to Philadelphia to meet the ship.

Tourist class had its own theater toward the bow, flanked on either side by the first-class observation lounge—which you can now see into because the asbestos-laden walls have been removed. The three passenger classes were rigorously separated.

Gibbs anthropomorphizes the vessel now, she said—sees her as a woman, strong, tough, enduring, but in serious need of a little sisterly aid. The Queen Mary has become a hotel in Long Beach, California, the Rotterdam a hotel and museum in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. For a long time something of the kind was Gibbs’s dream for the United States . A return to sea seemed too much to hope for. And it’s far from a done deal.

The past few winters have gotten under the ship’s skin; the red-white-and-black paint is coming off in enormous flakes. “Every year I come, the funnels are a little lighter, there’s a little more wear and tear,” Gibbs said. “In 2016, it’s going to be a make or break year.”

The ship was divided into 20 compartments that extended 40 feet above the water-line and was designed to remain afloat if as many as five of them were flooded. Water-tight doors separated the compartments.

Mind Your Wake

“When individual memory fails, we need reminders to help maintain our connections with the past,” the author David Macaulay has written on the web site of the Conservancy . Macaulay emigrated to America from Britain on the United States as a boy in 1957. It was the year before the first passenger jet crossed the Atlantic, sounding the death knell for ocean liners. My own first voyage on the ship was in 1964, and since then some member of my family—a sibling, a parent, a child—has always been on the opposite side of the Atlantic. That’s made me a big fan of jets.

But not of the experience of jet travel—of being sealed in a can in one world and poured out into another hours later. On the United States, during the days in between, you felt space passing as you stepped onto the deck and the wind caught your body like a sail; felt it as you watched the foam part at the bow and rush along the sides. You watched the broad roiling wake disappear to the horizon, and it was as if the medium of life had been rendered visible, as if time had become a tangible ether. I admit I wasn’t actually thinking that when I was seven or nine or even 12.

“The last winter really beat it up,” says Ray Griffiths, a caretaker of the ship. In winter, water seeping under the peeling paint freezes and expands, accelerating the peeling.

Still, it’s one of my older brother’s first memories, from one of the first crossings of the United States , in 1952 (at least he thinks it was the United States) . He’s four years old and standing on the fantail with our father and our sister, then two. Each kid is holding onto Dad with one hand and has a balloon in the other. My brother lets his go and watches it veer and bank like a swallow into the distance, skipping off the winds, and what amazes him is how long he can watch it fly.

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Fastest Atlantic crossing by powerboat

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

15 things you should know when planning an Atlantic crossing

• Elaine Bunting
• June 19, 2017

Our ultimate guide on things to consider if you're planning to sail across the Atlantic

Photo: Tor Johnson

The Atlantic crossing season occurs every winter. In the months leading up to Christmas, some 4-5,000 sailors will cross from Europe to the Caribbean on one of the biggest sailing adventures of their lives.

In most cases, the crossing is the culmination of years of planning and preparation. But if it’s your first time, are you missing something? You might be.

Here is a list of my top 15 tips for an Atlantic crossing, which I’ve drawn up both from my own ocean passages in the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian Oceans, and from talking to hundreds of transatlantic sailors over the years. So what do you really need to consider when planning your Atlantic crossing…

1. You don’t need a special boat

Time was when a proper offshore cruising yacht had chines, a ketch rig and self-steering gear at the stern. That was a perception, and perceptions change. Numerically, the most common transatlantic yachts these days are ordinary production cruisers with standard kit.

As for a watermaker, generator, SSB radio, etc: they’re all useful, but every additional item adds complication and service cost/time. Apart from a sound boat, all you really need is water, food, fuel and a (paper) copy of ‘North Atlantic, Southern Part’.

2. Keep it simple

A smart crossing is all about consistent speed, 24 hours a day. The key is not to have downtime.

There’s no need to fiddle around with twin headsails, Twistlerig or expensive new asymmetric spinnaker; a main and poled-out genoa ‘barn doors’ set-up will do fine. In fact, me and my other half won the ARC rally overall one year after sailing wing-and-wing almost the entire way.

Just keep an eye out for chafe, and be sure to set up a preventer on the boom and a foreguy topping lift and downhaul when poling out the headsail so you can furl in quickly when that night-time squall hits (which it will).

3. Revise your energy equation

Whatever power you think you’ll use on an ocean crossing, add on another third. Nav lights, radar, radio scheds, autopilot, watermaker, fridge, freezer, computer, fans – you name it, they all add up.

Increase the means of generating electricity with a diesel generator, larger alternator, solar panels and/or a towed turbine and look at means of making savings, such as fitting LED lights.

• 1. 1. You don't need a special boat
• 2. 4. Get some extra training
• 3. 7. Go the long way round
• 4. 10. Costs
• 5. 13. Be smart with your provisioning

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SD-1021 arrived in the United Kingdom from Bermuda in August 2019 after 75 days at sea, setting a record for the fastest Atlantic crossing by an uncrewed vehicle. On its return trip, SD-1021 took the direct northern route, sailing predominantly upwind and against the current, completing the 3,402-nautical mile passage in just 68 days and becoming the first unmanned technology to transit in both directions across the Atlantic.

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Crossing the Atlantic in a sailboat: the most famous crossings

Sailing the Atlantic in a sailboat is a feat that few dare to undertake. From meticulous planning to dealing with unpredictable sea conditions, we will discover what it takes to cross the Atlantic by sailboat and what are the best routes. Meteorology and weather is fundamental when planning a transatlantic voyage, it is also important to know what time of the year to go and what route to follow. If you would like to live the adventure of this oceanic navigation, but you have doubts about how this kind of voyages are, in this article we will try to solve all the questions as much as possible. To cross the Atlantic by sailboat, there are basically two routes available.

Route from East to West. Crossing Europe-America

This is the simplest route, as it is the usual route chosen by sailors to cross the Atlantic. It is easier to make this crossing, due to the distance among other things. This Europe-America crossing has a shorter distance so you will reach your destination sooner. Also, depending on the time of year you travel, it is much safer and you will enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey. The journey generally starts from Western Europe, being the most common departure from Spain or France , usually in the first days, most of the sailors make a stop in the Canary Islands, so you could also decide to leave from there. The destination when crossing the Atlantic by sailboat following this route is to end up in the Caribbean or in Central or South America . Another of the stops that is usually made would be in Cape Verde, African islands.

Th e weather conditions you encounter on this crossing are usually a bit more favorable than on the west-east route. However, you have to take into account the times of the year since there can be times of the year when hurricanes are quite common. That is why most expert sailors who make this trip do so in the winter months, between November and January. Despite being in December, the temperatures are very pleasant as we are in the Atlantic on our way to the other continent where at those times it would be "summer". Normally, the weather is usually exceptional , with an average of 26-27 degrees with constant sunshine and breeze, provided by the trade winds that blow strongly especially the first days of this voyage.

Route from West to East. America-Europe Crossing

This route is a priori, a little more complicated than the previous one. In principle the distance is a little longer and it can be a more difficult crossing due to the weather conditions that you can find. Normally, on this route the winds are usually quite strong. On the one hand, this can be beneficial since it has winds that favor navigation , but, on the other hand, in some seasons they can be detrimental due to the formation of anticyclones . This voyage can be longer, as there may be days with little wind, and they slow down the trip. It is therefore advisable to have sufficient supplies of food, water and gasoline in case the crossing takes longer than expected.

Due to the weather conditions that you can find when crossing the Atlantic by sailboat on this route, the most advisable to undertake your trip would be in the months of May to June. At that time the weather is quite pleasant and it is usually quite cool . The itinerary for this trip is usually as follows. Generally, the departure is usually from North America, New York or Newport would be good destinations. The route to follow would be to go to Bermuda , and then to the Azores , islands of Portugal. This route is usually taken because the conditions are usually more favorable than if you cross the Atlantic a little lower, closer to the equator, being cautious in case of hurricanes or tropical storms. In addition, you can stop to visit these spectacular destinations such as Bermuda and the Azores.

How long does it take to cross the Atlantic?

The duration of the voyage may vary according to different factors. First of all, as we have already mentioned several times, the weather , in particular the wind and sea conditions. A bad or good swell can slow down your trip, as can a lack of wind. On the other hand, a good wind (also favorable for sailing), plus a good swell can make the boat and your trip go more smoothly. Another factor that influences the duration of the voyage is the type of boat and its length. If the boat is larger, you will be able to sail faster. If you know the shortcuts, you could maximize the speed and if you also have the experience of sailing across the Atlantic, you could cross the Atlantic in less time. We are looking at a distance of between 3,500 and just over 4,000 nautical miles , depending on the route, departure and destination you choose to embark on such an adventure. In spite of these factors that we have just mentioned, generally sailing trips to cross the Atlantic can last between 15 and 30 days. It must be taken into account when planning the route and, above all, planning the weather, as the weather forecast is not usually so reliable with 1 or 2 weeks of difference.

It is necessary to be flexible in terms of dates and to have enough supplies to have sufficient safety margin. Also, remember to comply with all maritime safety regulations and requirements before embarking on a transatlantic crossing. Crossing the Atlantic by sailboat is a feat of courage, determination and passion for sailing. Whether you choose the majesty of the Azores Islands on the America-Europe Route or the lush tropical beauty on the other route.

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Fastest Atlantic Crossing....

Discussion in ' All Things Boats & Boating ' started by Bergalia , May 16, 2007 .

Bergalia Senior Member

It's a sort of adjunct to the 'Where is it' thread. (If you haven't discovered it yet...get to it. Great way of expanding your 'worldly' knowledge. But meanwhile - anyone like to hazard a guess at where it's possible to make the fastest Atlantic Crossing (any mode of transport) - and the average time taken. I'll supply the answer once forum boredom sets in.  

lazeyjack Guest

Bergalia said: ↑ It's a sort of adjunct to the 'Where is it' thread. (If you haven't discovered it yet...get to it. Great way of expanding your 'worldly' knowledge. But meanwhile - anyone like to hazard a guess at where it's possible to make the fastest Atlantic Crossing (any mode of transport) - and the average time taken. I'll supply the answer once forum boredom sets in. Click to expand...

Ah Stu my friend...how silly of me. I of course meant what's the fastest crossing of the Atlantic by a human being (and temporarily I'll include Queenslanders in this group...) As to the designs...still struggling with the 'controls.' But I'll get there. Meanwhile, again thanks. Will return the flat round things early next week by next camel train.....  

Bergalia said: ↑ Ah Stu my friend...how silly of me. I of course meant what's the fastest crossing of the Atlantic by a human being (and temporarily I'll include Queenslanders in this group...) As to the designs...still struggling with the 'controls.' But I'll get there. Meanwhile, again thanks. Will return the flat round things early next week by next camel train..... Click to expand...

Raggi_Thor Nav.arch/Designer/Builder

You mean crossing the atlantic in aboat, like from America to Europe? Is Greenland Europe?  

Fastest Atlantic Crossing Raggi_Thor said: ↑ You mean crossing the atlantic in aboat, like from America to Europe? Is Greenland Europe? Click to expand...

PI Design Senior Member

Russia to Alaska - the Bering Strait? 24hrs?  

Fastest Atlantic Crossing PI Design said: ↑ Russia to Alaska - the Bering Strait? 24hrs? Click to expand...

timshwak Junior Member

Is it the Incat Cat Link-V @ 41.3kts?  

Fastest Atlantic Crossing timshwak said: ↑ Is it the Incat Cat Link-V @ 41.3kts? Click to expand...

Attached Files:

Atlantic-bridge.jpg.

Probably the shortest distance to cross is some where between Brazil and Sierra Leonne / Guinea / Liberia in Africa...~1700-1800nm. I remember reading a story about a very large plane in the early days of aviation that chose that route for crossing because it was the shortest overwater route. The plane flew very close to the surface to gain lift grom ground effect and conserve fuel. Of course I can't remember all of the details about speed... This is a good one Bergalia. I am interested to find out the answer...  

Fastest Atlantic Crossing timshwak said: ↑ This is a good one Bergalia. I am interested to find out the answer... Click to expand...

Good one... I was thinking about crossing the "pond" not a "stream". Very good pub trivia though. That will be a pint sometime...  

I reckon I could row that in less than a minute and a half. I might try for a new transatlantic record this summer.  

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Fastest Atlantic Crossing Trouble is PI there's a very strong tidal rip through the bridge....  

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‘Dream come true’ – Dublin man returns to Ireland after five decades away by crossing Atlantic in unique homemade boat

• Jodie McCormack
• Published : 20:14, 21 Aug 2024
• Updated : 20:14, 21 Aug 2024

A DUBLIN-born sailor has returned to Ireland after being away for five decades by crossing the Atlantic in a homemade boat.

Alan Mulholland sailed into Baltimore in West Cork on a 21-foot home-built and designed boat after spending 39 days at sea.

Alan's 21-foot junk-rigged sailboat, Wave Rover II, arrived on the Irish coast on July 16, after setting sail from Prince Edward Island on Canada's East Coast.

After setting sail from Canada he travelled down the Eastern Seaboard of the USA and through ports such as Halifax, New York City, Baltimore, and Virginia Beach before crossing the Atlantic to the Azores.

His homemade rig was uniquely designed for solo voyages and was inspired by the classic Chinese junk sail, which is uncommon in modern day sailing.

Kevin Cardiff, chair of the Junk Rig Association noted the design offers a range of benefits for a solo sailor like Alan including easy handling and adaptability to shifting winds.

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Alan's arrival on the Irish coast last month marks the Canadian man's first time back on Irish soil in 51 years, after leaving in 1973.

The sailor said the voyage was a "dream come true" for him.

He said the excursion was: "definitely something that has been on my radar for decades, having left Ireland by ship in 1973 and now to return 51 years later on a boat that I have built myself has been a dream come true.

"I've always believed that challenge, something that we have to reach for…something that we can barely reach with maximum effort is what brings us the greatest satisfaction in life.

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"This is what solo sailing, on a simple, small, home built boat continues to be for me, something where success is not automatically guaranteed."

During parts of the 39 day journey the sailor braved 83kph winds and 10- to 15-foot seas.

The Irish-born man documents his sailing expeditions on his YouTube channel @Roversadventures .

The popular channel has nearly 45,000 subscribers following along on Alan's adventures at sea.

In a series titled 'Solo Atlantic Crossing: Sailing the Atlantic Ocean Alone in a 21ft Home Built Sailboat' he documented the journey to Ireland.

The avid sailor shared a range of videos preparing for the voyage including designing and building the boat and adding the finishing touches just days before his departure.

Previous gruelling journeys

Prior to crossing the Atlantic to reach his birthplace, Alan had already set sail on some gruelling journeys.

He previously completed four solo ocean journeys, three across the Atlantic and one across the Pacific.

Now that he has touched down on Irish soil, he plans to spend some time exploring Ireland.

He will take part in the Cruising Association of Ireland’s Three Bridges Rally in Dublin .