The French authorities have ruled that we cannot cross the Channel (see Unorthodox Crossingsv1.4 ). We wrote them a polite letter in French explaining how seaworthy our pedal powered catamaran is and they have said ‘Non’, or to be completely factual they have not replied.
Initially we decided just to go for it anyway but have been advised that the chances of being caught are high; the boat would be impounded and we would receive a £7k fine which would wipe out our fundraising to date. Very sadly we have reached the conclusion that the Channel is unlikely to happen. Big apologies to those of you who feel let down, hopefully you will feel the back up plan is challenging enough!
So we started searching for an alternative route – and the best option we have found is Scotland to Ireland. It is slightly further and more tidal but we can handle it. The plan is to cross from Portpatrick to Donaghadee (or vice-versa dependant on weather) – the Irish are looking forward to seeing us!
Due to the change of route and having to re-plan all our logistics we have set a range of new dates in August and September, giving us more time to reach our £16k target. Help us by sponsoring now on Just Giving.
The Pedalo Challenge 
Looks like a worthy replacement challenge, think we passed your route on our overnight race. I think giving the sea a bit longer to warm up is also a wise move 🙂
Thanks. It is a bit disappointing as the channel has a certain prestige but this is an amazing challenge! Am pretty excited!
Rupert
Well done chaps, looks to be a worthy new route indeed!