A. Training is the responsiblity of the team with a minimum of physical and mental preparation, sea survival drills, navigation and a first aid course.
A. All teams must carry the minimum designated equipment, which includes safety items such as life jackets, liferaft, EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon), VHF Radio (line of sight) and a medical kit.
A. As these races can take anything up to three months to complete, most of the food taken will be freeze dried or boil in the bag. Treats such as chocolate, dried fruit and energy bars are essential and also help tp boost morale.
A. All boats must carry a water desalinator, which turns salt water into drinking water.
A. Each team must be completely self-sufficient for the entire duration of the crossing. Therefore, all supplies including food must be carried on board the boat, stored in watertight containers below the main deck or in the fore and aft cabins.
A. The forward cabin has been designed so that all members of the crew can rest/sleep at the same if necessary. However, it is envisaged the most crews will not sleep at the same time, but run a watch system of, for example, two hours on, two hours off.
A. Teams use a GPS (Global Positioning System) to navigate their way across the Atlantic. They also carry a sextant as a backup.
A. Electrical equipment is powered by a series of solar panels fixed to the cabin roofs and gunwales. This is the only source of producing energy onboard the boats so some electrical items are fitted with their own power supply.
A. The racing fleet will be followed by support vessel(s) that will provide cover in emergencies. A medic will also form part of the safety vessel crew, trained to provide medical assistance either VHF radio or onboard.
A. The number one question asked. Bucket and chuck it!!
