The boat
Złotoryjanka – an ocean rowing boat with a history of world records
Złotoryjanka is an exceptional ocean rowing boat designed for the toughest challenges on the open waters of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Built in 2012 as an ocean-rowing-class craft, it is a fast, light and extremely durable construction created for record crossings and extreme ocean conditions.
The boat was built by Simon Chalk – one of the most experienced ocean rowers in the world, a multiple Guinness record-holder and a pioneer of modern ocean rowing. Simon Chalk has ten oceans rowed by human muscle to his name, including eight Atlantic crossings and two crossings of the Indian Ocean.
A record-breaking history
A boat built for great challenges
Złotoryjanka is made of carbon fibre using sandwich technology – two layers of composite separated by a buoyant core create an exceptionally stiff, light and durable structure. The hull walls are about 10 mm thick, providing high strength while keeping weight to a minimum.
The hull shape was designed specifically with safety in mind during ocean storms. The construction allows the boat to self-right after capsizing, which is one of the most important features of professional ocean boats.
In the bow there is a watertight compartment for equipment and expedition gear. The deck is fitted with lockers that double as buoyancy bulkheads, while the living quarters are located in the stern cabin. It is there that the crew rests, sleeps and shelters from water and wind during crossings lasting many weeks.
Złotoryjanka is one of only seven boats in the world built to the same mould and construction parameters – a design created for crossing oceans quickly and safely.
A record-breaking history
Just a year after it was built, the boat was used on an exceptional Atlantic expedition. In 2013 it set the world record for the youngest crew ever to row an ocean. The event resonated widely within the ocean rowing community and became a symbol of the determination and courage of young people taking on extreme challenges.
In 2015 the boat made history again – it was used to set the world record for the youngest person to row any ocean. The feat was reported by the BBC and other British national media.
Proven in extreme conditions
The ocean does not forgive mistakes. Złotoryjanka was designed and tested precisely for the most demanding weather conditions – high waves, strong winds and weeks of use far from land. The boat’s construction combines speed with safety, so it can be used for sporting expeditions, record ocean crossings and expedition projects alike.
A film showing how the boat behaves in difficult sea conditions:
Watch the video on YouTube
The heritage of ocean rowing
Ocean rowing boats of this type are among the most advanced craft powered solely by human muscle. The boats built by Simon Chalk have been used in numerous record Atlantic crossings, including speed-record attempts and Guinness World Records expeditions.
Złotoryjanka is more than just a boat. It is part of the history of world ocean rowing – a symbol of courage, endurance and pushing the limits of human ability.