Maltese Rower Steve Chetcuti Takes On Solo Atlantic Challenge In World’s Toughest Row
Malta is about to make history on the high seas. Steve Chetcuti, a 55-year-old rower from Siggiewi, is set to become the first Maltese ever to row solo and unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean in the legendary World’s Toughest Row.
Starting from La Gomera in the Canary Islands and finishing in Antigua, Chetcuti will face a staggering 3,000-mile (4,800km) journey alone, battling waves up to five metres high, sleep deprivation, extreme fatigue, and even hallucinations.
As a solo competitor, he’ll not only row up to 16 hours a day, but also manage navigation, boat maintenance, food preparation, personal hygiene, and safety, all without a support boat trailing behind him.
“It’s a mammoth trip that will test every fibre of my physical and mental capabilities,” Chetcuti said. “My goal is to complete the race in 50 days, but a lot depends on weather and sea conditions.” Despite the challenge, he’s determined to make history for Malta and inspire others with his perseverance.
This isn’t Chetcuti’s first Atlantic adventure, in 2021, he rowed the ocean as part of a five-person team.
This time, however, it’s all on him. His boat, Kamila, is self-righting in case of capsizes, and he’ll occasionally jump into the sea to clean barnacles from the hull, ensuring he doesn’t lose precious speed. Storms are still a possibility even after hurricane season, and Chetcuti will rely on a sea anchor to stay on course if the weather turns.
But there’s more to this row than the extreme challenge. Chetcuti is raising awareness about loneliness, a problem affecting one in two people in Malta. His message is simple but powerful: reach out, even with a simple ‘hello,’ because someone might be suffering in silence. He’s also supporting Margarita, a musical theatre group whose shows raise funds for charitable causes.
The race is expected to start on 12th December at 11.30am, though timing may shift depending on weather conditions. Fans can follow Chetcuti’s progress via the World’s Toughest Row website, the YB Races app, or his Instagram account, where he’ll post updates whenever possible. Supporters can also contribute through his GoFundMe page and follow the Margarita group on Facebook and Instagram.
Steve Chetcuti’s solo Atlantic row is more than a sporting feat, it’s a story of endurance, courage, and a reminder that even the most solitary journeys can have a powerful message for the world.
Ready to follow Steve Chetcuti as he takes on the Atlantic solo and supports a cause close to every Maltese heart?
Photo credits to World’s Toughest Row
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