Ex-Royal Marine Sets World Record for Longest Solo Ocean Row

An ex-Royal Marine has shattered the world record for the longest solo, unsupported ocean row by distance, completing a staggering 17,500-mile journey from Peru to Kenya in 327 days. David Bell, 54, landed in Mombasa, Kenya, on Friday, having navigated both the Pacific and Indian Oceans without setting foot on land.

Bell's epic voyage, undertaken in his 24-foot boat named Billy No Mates, saw him battle extreme weather, navigate treacherous waters, and confront his own fear of open water. He rowed for an average of 12 hours each day, carrying 750kg of non-perishable food to sustain him throughout the expedition.

During his journey, Bell encountered numerous challenges, including weeks of being followed by oceanic white tip sharks, which he described as unnerving due to their reputation as man-eaters. "It was quite unnerving to begin with as Oceanic white tips are known to be man eaters so it focused me not to fall over the side," he told The Telegraph.

He also had to contend with storms and crocodiles, and at one point had to repair his boat's rudder three times due to strong waves. To manage the expedition, Bell became an "electrician, mechanic, navigator, chef and nurse" in addition to being a rower.

The fundraiser was inspired by personal loss and a desire to support veterans. Bell raised more than £110,000 for the PTSD charity Rock2Recovery, motivated by the deaths of two close friends and the struggles of others who experienced PTSD following active service.

Bell's previous record for the longest solo, unsupported ocean row by distance was set in September 2021, when he became the first person to row unsupported across the Atlantic via the northern route. That journey, from New York to Cornwall, covered 3,000 miles and took 119 days. He has described that experience as an "epic mix of emotions," facing conditions that left him "physically trembling and sick" at the outset.

His latest achievement surpasses the previous record held by Jacob Adoram Hendrickson, who rowed 7,145 miles across the Pacific in 2019. Adventurer Ben Fogle has lauded Bell's feat, calling him a "legend."

Upon his arrival in Kenya, Bell expressed his anticipation for simple comforts. "I can't wait to have a beer, take the longest shower of my life and sleep in a proper bed," he stated.