Australian adventurer Don McIntyre is set to redefine ocean rowing with the launch of the Real Ocean Row (ROR), a unique competition that returns the sport to its purest form. At 73, McIntyre plans to cross the Atlantic in 2028 using only traditional navigation methods, inviting sailors and adventurers worldwide to take on this challenge.

A 3,200-Mile Human-Powered Challenge Across the Atlantic

The Real Ocean Row will cover approximately 3,200 nautical miles, starting from Rubicon Marina Lanzarote and finishing at the National Sailing Academy in Antigua. Unlike modern races, this event recreates the extreme conditions of early ocean crossings, where everything depends on physical endurance, seamanship, and mental strength.

Participants will rely solely on:

  • Sextant
  • Paper charts
  • Compass
  • Radio
  • Wind-up watches
  • Barometer

All modern technology is banned, including GPS, satellite phones, Starlink, autopilots, computers, and electric watermakers.

Inspired by the Legendary 1966 Atlantic Crossing

The race pays tribute to the historic 1966 crossing by Chay Blyth and John Ridgway, who rowed across the North Atlantic aboard the English Rose III, a small 20-foot modified fishing dory.

With no modern technology—just basic navigation tools, canned food, and limited water—they survived one of the most extreme maritime adventures ever recorded. The Real Ocean Row aims to revive that spirit and test whether modern rowers can endure the same level of hardship.

Modern Ocean Rowing vs True Human Effort

Today’s ocean rowing races include technologies that significantly reduce effort and increase performance:

  • Solar-powered desalination systems
  • GPS chart plotters
  • Electric autopilots
  • Shore-based weather routing
  • Satellite communications

According to McIntyre, this raises a key question: is it still truly “human powered”?

The ROR aims to answer this by eliminating all technological assistance.

Race Format, Entry and Classes

Entries for the Real Ocean Row open on June 1st, 2026, limited to 16 boats, either solo or pairs.

  • Start: December 8–14, 2028
  • Frequency: Every four years
  • Classes: ORSI Class 1 & 2, plus amateur and Woodvale categories
  • Senior class: Solo rowers aged 65+
  • Requirement: Yachtmaster Theory or equivalent ocean sailing experience

A manual Survivor 35 desalinator is allowed, balancing safety and authenticity.

The “Modern Class” Safety Option

For safety, sealed modern equipment can be carried onboard. If necessary, participants may break the seals and switch to the “Modern Class”.

This allows the use of GPS, autopilot, satellite communications, and electric watermakers, but removes eligibility for the official “Human Powered” classification.

A Return to True Ocean Adventure

Don McIntyre, known for organizing retro round-the-world yacht races, has dreamed of rowing an ocean for over 30 years. Now, he aims to revive the original spirit of endurance and exploration.

The Real Ocean Row is more than a race—it is an invitation to rediscover what it truly means to cross an ocean using only human power, traditional skills, and determination.

More information:
https://realoceanrow.com/