Support Vehicles

Pacific 22 Support RIB

Having a good strong and reliable support boat is critical for the on-water support that Hilary needs. Apart from acting as a safety boat should any problems arise at sea, it also enables the support crew to board Hilary's boat to provide food, drink, or medication or to reef the sails when required. This Pacific 22 is an ex-MOD model with an inboard diesel engine and was acquired from Ian Clover, Project Manager of Geoff Holt's successful sail around Britain in 2007, so it has a proven track record of supporting a challenge like ours. The boat is fully loaded with Raymarine electronics, and a range of sea safety equipment and accessories.

Land Rover Defender 110

Tows the RIB trailer and is used for hauling out and launching the boats on remote beaches and slipways. It is fitted with a winch and a bespoke crane/hoist which is used for lifting Hilary from her boat in harbours where there are no slipways. The vehicle was again acquired from Ian Clover, so it certainly knows the route!

Mercedes McLouis Motorhomes

The Mercedes McLouis, 'the boys' van', provides the living accommodation for the male members of the crew. The vehicle has been purchased for the project and will be re-sold at the end of the challenge. Thanks go to Paul Johnson of www.campervans4u.co.uk for making all the necessary arrangements.