The Viking Princess

The Viking Princess

This is it. This is the Viking Princess. This is the boat that will escort us across the Channel next year.

It looks like a fishing trawler because that's exactly what it is - it's a fishing trawler! It will be our home for 36 hours. It does have all the latest high-tech navigation equipment. But, more importantly, it has a cabin below deck that's capable of sleeping 10 people, it has a kettle and a microwave, and a flushing toilet.

The boat belongs to Reg Brickell. Reg is our pilot. In 2010, Reg and his crew and his boat were awarded a place in the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame. The International Marathon Hall of Fame quotes "Their knowledge of Channel elements of weather, water and likely conditions has earned them a place in English Channel history as the most successful team to 'Lead the Way' in helping Channel crossers succeed. They are usually 'right-on' for picking the day and time to start a swim."

Reg and his crew have a reputation for escorting winners. Some of the winners include the fastest man, the fastest lady 2-ways, the fastest butterfly, the fastest backstroke, and the fastest ladies relay 3-ways(!).

Whilst we might not be the fastest anything, I think we'll be in good hands.