The French Polynesian Crossing, Tahiti - Bora Bora 3-4 days/ nights non-stop

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, 2^nd paddle, solar panel

CAMERAS

With 3 cameras I will be documenting this crossing on film and photo.