The first ever solo, open ocean, SUP trans-Atlantic crossing
An undertaking so unique, so out-of-the-box, and of such an immense feat that most would believe it to be… Impossible!
About the project
Chris began the first ever, solo, SUP Trans-Atlantic Crossing on December 6, 2016. It will consist of paddling a marathon every day for 120 days, over 4500 miles (7500 km) to show the world what’s possible, one stroke at a time.
Beginning on the northwest coast of Africa in Morocco, the voyage has taken Chris past the Canary Islands, and he is now well into crossing the Atlantic Ocean, moving towards the Caribbean Leeward Island of Antigua, and if the weather permits, he hopes to end the journey in Florida. Chris will battle the currents, weather, creatures of the deep, fatigue, exhaustion and the unknown.
What does it take to redefine impossible? When Chris Bertish set out to cross the Atlantic Ocean with just a stand-up paddleboard, he was certain he’d face unimaginable terrors. But having planned this challenge for five years, the adventurer was relentless. His greater purpose – to transform the lives of children – pushed him forward.
In December 2016, Bertish began his voyage from the coast of Morocco to the Caribbean island of Antigua. His custom-built stand-up paddleboard, the ImpiFish, included shelter, navigation, and communication technology inside the hull. Travelling at an average of
69 kilometers per day, Bertish paddled at night to avoid excessive sun exposure. But two weeks into his journey, disaster struck. Bertish hit stormy weather, dangerous waves and technical trouble. He persevered, completing his mission 93 days and 7 500 kilometers later.
The ocean pioneer, author and inspirational speaker set a Guinness World Record with his feat. But Bertish takes pride in the impact of his actions. The journey raised enough money to fund close to 1 000 surgeries for children with cleft palates through Operation Smile.
“I’ve always believed in giving back and being a better human being,”
Bertish says. His intrepid spirit ripples throughout South Africa.
“Through these adventures, I’d like kids to be encouraged, inspired, and never give up on whatever they set their mind to achieve, even the seemingly Impossible!”
