N&J managing director to attempt 80-hour rowing marathon

The Europe managing director of yacht brokerage Northrop and Johnson, Patrick Coote, is attempting to row non-stop from Port Vell on the Spanish mainland to the island of Ibiza in the Balearics. The feat, which is part of an extreme endurance race, is expected to take around 80 hours, depending on the wind and weather.

Coote is no stranger to extreme rowing: in 2022, he completed a 12-day, 650km row around Scotland. This race of a ‘mere’ 330km may seem like a walk in the park in comparison; until you factor in the high temperatures of the blistering Mediterranean sun as well as the rashes, sea-sickness, aches and pains, all compounded by extreme exhaustion and severe sleep deprivation.

Coote will be part of a four-man team raising awareness, and seeking donations, to help fund the education and advocacy programs of the Noman charity, which aims to eliminate the devastation caused by HPV, the agent of five per cent of cancers.

The 24ft (7.3m) ocean rowing boat has been designed to self-right if they capsize and withstand the worst weather the open sea can throw at them. The boat has a water-tight cabin, solar panels to power the onboard navigation system, and a water-maker to convert seawater into drinking water.

“The pain and discomfort aboard will be in stark contrast to life on the superyachts we normally work with, but it will all be worthwhile if we can complete the challenge and raise money to help prevent future suffering by cancer patients,” says Coote. “We’re extremely grateful to Northrop & Johnson, IGY Port Ibiza and Port Vell for their support”.

Those who wish to support Noman can donate via Coote and the team, who have launched a JustGiving page to accept donatons.