He'll Attempt to Cross the Atlantic in a 46-Inch Boat

A British sailor is betting big on a very small boat. Andrew Bedwell, 52, is preparing to attempt to cross the Atlantic in what would be the smallest vessel ever to make the journey: a 3-foot-10-inch aluminum "micro-yacht" he has dubbed the Big C Atlantic Challenge. In a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for the boat's equipment and for cancer research, he describes it as "a space probably smaller than under your desk." As UPI reports, it's his second such vessel. His first try at this record in 2023 ended before launch, when his original boat was accidentally dropped onto concrete and shattered. That version was made of fiberglass; this one is aluminum, and carries solar panels, satellite communications, and other tech to help him manage the rough seas.

Bedwell plans to start from Argentia, Newfoundland, where the boat will be delivered as early as Friday, and sail roughly 1,900 miles to Southampton, England. He's anticipating it'll take about three months to get there. Bedwell is aiming to beat the current Guinness World Record, set in 1993 by American Hugo Vihlen in a 5-foot-4-inch boat. The BBC notes the 6-foot-tall Bedwell won't be able to lie flat during his journey. He explains: "When the conditions are bad I'm seated, and what I'll be doing is I'll be fully harnessed into the boat with my hands, my elbows, everything harnessed. When the conditions are good, I can stand up, open the hatch and stand up." Followers can track his progress here.