An exciting new crossing in the rich paddle culture of French Polynesia.
In the next weeks I will have regular updates with the gear I am using. Below here are some details about this crossing.
WHEN : May
10-24, 2014, start will be depending on the
Weather conditions.
WHERE: Tahiti
– Bora Bora, French Polynesia , +/- 180 miles
THE CROSSING
Start of the
trade wind season, May 2014
A first ever
3-4 day Crossing. This expedition will bring
many challenges; sleeping, eating navigating on the board in wet, windy
and wavy conditions .
Again this
French Polynesian crossing will be:
- Solo,
- Non
Stop, I will be sleeping, eating and navigate on Board for the entire
time.
- Unsupported,
I will be doing this trip without any support from outside.
I have been
planning this trip the last months. It will be in similar conditions as the
2011 Hawaiian Crossing but with a new expedition board from Starboard and this time with a dry suit from SUPSKIN for
the nights which were wet and very cold on the Hawaiian crossing.
BOARD
For many
years now, STARBOARD has been an amazing supporting sponsor. This year again
they will supply me with a special board. A prototype for the 2015 Expedition,
outfitted wit special adaptations you need on an expedition like this, extra
safety lines, front steering system for side wind conditions , water
compartments and many other details.
Dry suit
SUPSKIN
developed a dry suit with the latest
materials. This suit is salt water proof and still breathes and
specially developed for expeditions like this. This very valuable during the
nights and essential to stay warm.
Patagonia
Is helping me out with their incredible clothing. Some warm layers under my Dry suit will be all the difference at night.
Sun glasses
Being in the
sun for 4 full days it is extremely important to protect your eyes. MAUI JIM provides polarized sunglasses with super
clear view. I Love them
TRACKER
You can
follow the whole crossing with a live tracker. This device made by Leodorme
sends a signal every 3 hrs of my position and speed. I can even send text
messages to send reports and receive weather up dates.
SAFETY on
Board
Epirb,
(personal Satellite beacon), VHF radio, GPS, back up GPS, maps, Tri color
Navigation lights, Life vest, Water maker, 5 gallons of water, food for 7 days,
2nd paddle, solar panel
CAMERAS
With 3
cameras I will be documenting this crossing on film and photo.
