About Us

Meet Harry Besley, our Skipper. His vision for the Challenge began in 2021 when he was 14. Four years later, he is a world record holder! But a lot happened in between.

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Harry attended Wellington School in Somerset, a small town where everyone knew everyone. He took every opportunity, becoming House Captain, Coxswain (head) of the Royal Navy Combined Cadet Force, Lifeguard, and Medical First Responder.

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Growing up, Harry’s summers were spent on, in, and under the water. The family had a small RIB that had a habit of breaking down. Harry quickly learned some basic emergency repairs (as well as the process for requesting a tow!).

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Harry's enthusiasm for boats grew each summer, until it outgrew the little boat at Lyme Regis. The desire to explore and push himself resulted in a dream of circumnavigating Britain. Several months later, after persuading his mum to help with the business side of the challenge, there was a plan: a world record attempt, with the goal of raising awareness about the damage caused by fossil fuel-powered boats.

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The training and preparations began—intermediate powerboat, advanced powerboat, VHF, sea survival, and many, many hours on the water. With help from RNLI helm and powerboat instructor Jim Thomas, Harry was as prepared as he could be for what was to come.

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After lots and lots of preparation and organizing, they crossed the start line on boat Electra, with cousin Henry Cietak as crew. After a very long month, they made it back. Harry and mum, Jaqui, were exhausted from the countless sleepless nights and hours spent driving or on the water.

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After some much-needed rest and recovery, Harry set his sights on superyachts. After a bit of 'job hunting' (or maybe more like holidaying!), Harry ended up on a boat in Italy. And the rest was smooth sailing...

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You can keep up to date on Harry's adventures on his socials below.