The effective planning of an ocean rowing crossing is paramount to the project success. This is expecially important at the start of a row and towards the end. Some would say that in between these points - the routing and weather are just a matter of what comes along. It is true that it is difficult to change course in the same way that you could do in sailing - however it is still pretty good to have some warning of what might come your way.

All the ocean rowing routes are different and need different consideration. The weather window for leaving La Gomera is pretty established based on the trade winds. However localised conditions should be monitored just to make sure you leave land safely.

On the Mid-Atlantic rowing race, Woodvale Challenge employs a weather router that will provide weather information to all teams. Independent teams often employ their own weather expert. Woodvale Challenge have all the tracks from previous races and advice can be given based on average courses and speeds achieved.

North Atlantic

The North Atlantic is far more changeable. Weather routing is important to give teams the benefit of knowing just what they are to expect. On the North Atlantic Rowing Race, we will employ a weather expert to give information to all the teams. If you are an independent team, then we can pass these contact details onto individuals that request them.

Indian Ocean

Woodvale Challenge has undertaken a great deal of work to investigate and analyse weather conditions and routing for the Indian Ocean. This ocean is far more complex than the Mid-Atlantic route in terms of both getting clear from Australia and the crossing all the way across. We are happy to pass on any information to support race rowers and independent rowers that plan to attempt the Indian Ocean.

North Pacific

There are two or three "experts" in the field of North Pacific weather and routing for ocean rowing boats. If you have specific questions in regard to this route, we can pass your enquiries forward to the best people to answer your questions.

South Pacific

The same applies to the South Pacific as with the North. Woodvale Challenge has concluded a complete port investigation in Peru. The pitfalls of port clearances, passage planning and weather analysis has been completed over this route. If you are interested in completing this route then please contact our office and we can put you in contact with the best individuals to help your project succeed.