Crossing for a Cause: Rufus Lewis Takes on the World’s Toughest Row

What would make someone swap a superyacht for a seven-meter carbon-fiber boat — and row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic completely alone?

For Rufus Lewis, the answer is simple: purpose. The former yacht crew member is preparing to take on the World’s Toughest Row, a 3,000-mile journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua — rowing solo, unsupported, and with a mission to raise awareness for Caudwell Youth, a UK-based charity empowering disadvantaged and neurodiverse young people aged 11–24.

The World’s Toughest Row: 1.5 Million Strokes for Change

Each December, competitors from around the globe launch from La Gomera and set their course across nearly 4,800 kilometers of open ocean. Facing relentless waves, isolation, and exhaustion, Rufus will row up to 16 hours a day, taking roughly 1.5 million strokes to reach Antigua.

“I’ll be rowing when the weather’s with me — and resting when it isn’t,” Rufus shares. “But every stroke will count toward giving someone else a chance.”

Equipped with solar power, dehydrated food packs, and an unshakable determination, Rufus is about to trade the comfort of a yacht deck for the solitude of the sea.

From Superyachts to Solo Seas

Having worked aboard the busy charter yacht M/Y Titania, Rufus knows the sea’s extremes. He’s crossed the Atlantic six times on superyachts — but never like this.

“You lose between eight and twelve kilos during the row,” he says. “So I’ve spent months bulking up, training, and preparing mentally. It’s not just a test of fitness — it’s a test of resilience.”

He’s guided by an experienced ocean-rowing coach and backed by a remote safety team, but the journey itself is unsupported — meaning once he leaves the dock, no resupply, no outside help, and no turning back.

Rowing for Caudwell Youth

Through his campaign Rufus Rows, he’s raising awareness and funds for Caudwell Youth, whose programs give young people the tools to thrive beyond adversity.

“The World’s Toughest Row has helped raise over sixteen million euros for charities worldwide,” Rufus notes. “That’s the number that inspires me — people pushing their limits for something bigger than themselves.”

A Mindset Built at Sea

Years in yachting taught Rufus about pressure, endurance, and teamwork — qualities now essential for his solo crossing.

“Yachting prepared me for this in ways I didn’t expect,” he says. “You learn to stay calm in chaos, to problem-solve fast, and to keep going no matter how rough it gets.”

The row may last 40 to 60 days, depending on weather. Along the way, he’ll experience moments of deep isolation, awe, and reflection — the kind of introspection that only the open ocean allows.

Follow Rufus & Support the Cause

🌐 Website: rufusrows.com

📸 Instagram: @rufus.rows

💙 Charity: caudwellyouth.org

🌊 Learn more about M/Y Unbridled: yachtunbridled.com