An all-female rowing team from Scotland is preparing to take on a 3,000-mile transatlantic journey as part of the World’s Toughest Row – the first certified carbon-neutral ocean expedition. The crew, known as Scotland the Wave, will depart from San Sebastian in La Gomera on 12 December, rowing unsupported to Antigua to raise funds for four charities.
Over nearly two months at sea, the team will row continuously in two-hour shifts, covering more than 1.5 million oar strokes and facing conditions ranging from 20-foot waves to tropical storms. Their crossing aims to raise awareness and funds for Breast Cancer UK, Scottish Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA), Simba and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).
Part of the world’s first carbon-neutral ocean race
The World’s Toughest Row was certified in 2024 as the world’s first carbon-neutral ocean expedition. All participating teams must track their carbon footprint and meet strict sustainability requirements, including responsible waste management and the use of renewable onboard systems.
Scotland the Wave’s boat has been equipped with solar panels to power essential equipment throughout the crossing. Every item of waste generated on board will be measured, recorded and accounted for as part of the race’s environmental framework. The initiative aligns with a wider push to encourage sustainable practices in adventure sports and expedition logistics.
Community support behind the challenge
The team has received support from a wide range of national and local businesses. Jo Dow, Chief Executive of Business Stream, said the organisation was pleased to support an endeavour that combines endurance, community fundraising and environmental awareness.
Industry figures have also backed the team’s efforts. Fergus Loudon, Operations Director at Tunnock’s, wished the crew “fair winds and following seas,” while Pete Rochford, owner of the Fishertown Inn in Cromarty, where the team has been training, highlighted the local community’s enthusiasm for the challenge.
“A life-changing achievement”
The four women have spent months preparing physically and mentally for the isolation, intense fatigue and unpredictable weather associated with an unsupported ocean crossing. Their vessel, measuring just seven metres by two metres, contains only the essential equipment required for survival.
Team member Andrena McShane-Kerr said the journey represents both a personal and collective milestone. “To have so many amazing companies supporting our challenge means so much. The challenge will be a positively life-changing achievement, that will never be forgotten, and all for causes close to our hearts.”
Following the journey
Once underway, the public will be able to track Scotland the Wave’s progress through a dedicated monitoring system, with links and daily updates available via the official World’s Toughest Row website and the team’s social media channels.
