This month a team of eight people will be setting off on an endurance expedition from Ullapool with the aim of circumnavigating Scotland in an 11.8-metre rowing boat. The massive undertaking will be raising funds for the Monaco Red Cross' 'Action Ukraine' fund, that is working to help those being affected by the war. Patrick Coote, Managing Director for Northrop and Johnson yacht brokers in Europe, is participating in the event and the brokerage house has provided financial support for the expedition.
Typically dealing with boats at the opposite end of the luxury spectrum, Patrick wanted to embark on a physical and mental challenge that will take him completely out of his comfort zone, pitting him against the raw elements of sea, wind and tide, as well as facing the inevitable exhaustion and uncertainty that comes with such a journey. Patrick is aiming to raise over €25,000 to support the efforts of the Red Cross.
“Millions of people in Ukraine are now without their family, their homes, comfort or safety. Putting myself in the same position, albeit just for a few days, will hopefully help to highlight their plight and raise donations to support them”.
The expedition will set off past the beaches of Oldshoremore and then follow the coastal waters of the Inner and Outer Hebrides before heading towards the Orkney Islands, past John O’Groats and over the northern tip of Scotland before heading down the east coast. The team will then be traversing Scotland via the Caledonian Canal to Fort William where they will continue on to the Sound of Mull past the Isle of Skye. The Scottish coastline is stunningly beautiful in good weather with a rich abundance of wildlife and sea mammals but is also known to be particularly inhospitable with dangerous currents, confused fast-running tides, towering cliffs and rocky shores. This is believed to be only the second time such an expedition has ever been attempted and the first time with a Monaco resident as part of the team.
Further details can be found on the Red Cross website. Follow this link to learn more or to donate: https://www.croix-rouge.mc/en/i-donate/