Introduction

When British adventurers Miriam Payne and Jess Rowe set out to become the first crew to row non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean, they knew the challenge would be immense. But just 350 miles into their 8,000-mile journey from Peru to Australia, disaster struck—the rudder of their rowing boat, Velocity, snapped in a storm. Stranded and unable to steer, their expedition was nearly over—until a Norfolk boatyard thousands of miles away heard their story.

1. Emergency in the Pacific: Rudder Snaps Mid-Journey

The duo had departed from Peru on 8 April aiming to row across the Pacific Ocean unsupported. But their plans were derailed by a violent storm that caused their rudder to fail. With no steering mechanism, they were left adrift for nearly a week before being towed back to Lima to assess repairs.

2. Southgates Boatyard Steps Up

When news reached Southgates Boatyard in Horning, Norfolk, the staff felt “compelled to help.” Working around the clock, the small rural boatbuilding team crafted replacement rudders to save the mission. These parts are now en route to Lima, where they will be fitted to Velocity, allowing the rowers to resume their journey.

3. Racing Against Cyclone Season

Time is critical. The Pacific cyclone season begins soon, and to avoid severe weather, Payne and Rowe hope to restart their expedition before 8 May. The swift response from Southgates may be the difference between history being made—or missed.

4. Supporting a Greater Cause

The adventure isn’t just for personal glory. The pair are raising funds for the Outward Bound Trust, an organization that promotes youth development through outdoor adventure. Their resilience and dedication embody the very values the charity represents.

5. Community Spirit in Action

Chris Bunn, manager of Southgates Boatyard, said, “It’s inspiring to support such an incredible challenge, especially when it’s tied to a cause like the Outward Bound Trust.” The effort demonstrates how local craftsmanship and global ambition can align, even across oceans.

The Seas the Day team challenge was set up by Ms Payne and Ms Rowe to raise money for the Outward Bound Trust – a UK charity to teach children about adventuring and life skills.

Ms Payne said they were “so thankful” to the boatbuilder for its help.

“To design and produce specialist rudders in such a short time and arrange for them to be flown out to us in Lima is nothing short of amazing,” she said.

“Without their help, we wouldn’t be able to continue our mission.”

The pair had been posting daily video diaries on social media, with their journey originally expected to take about six months.

Conclusion

From East Yorkshire and Hampshire to Peru and the Pacific, the story of Miriam Payne and Jess Rowe is one of grit, passion, and unexpected allies. Thanks to the heart and skill of a UK boatbuilder, their record-setting ocean row may still be on course. As they prepare to set off again, their journey continues to inspire not just fellow adventurers—but anyone who believes in second chances and global solidarity.

Related Reading: 10 Most Inspiring UK Adventure Stories of the Year