With the 2026 Globe 580 TRANSAT on the horizon, preparations are already well underway. While the start line may still be many months away, successful solo sailing begins long before the boat leaves the dock. For Dean, this stage is all about meticulous planning, careful inspection, and making sure every element of the boat is ready to handle the demands of a 3,600-mile Atlantic crossing. In a race where there’s no support crew and no margin for oversight, preparation isn’t just important, it’s everything.
One of the key areas of focus is the boat’s electrical systems. From navigation instruments and communication equipment to battery management and charging systems, everything must be tested, backed up, and reliable. Out at sea, these systems are a lifeline, providing weather updates, route tracking, and the ability to stay in touch with the outside world. Alongside this, safety equipment is undergoing thorough checks and upgrades where needed. Life rafts, personal locator beacons, harnesses, and emergency supplies all need to meet strict standards and be easily accessible in high-pressure situations.
Rigging is another critical component receiving close attention. Every line, fitting, and connection point is being inspected for wear and strength. The mast and standing rigging must be capable of withstanding days, even weeks, of continuous stress from wind and waves, while the running rigging needs to function smoothly and efficiently to allow quick adjustments when sailing solo. Even small issues, if left unchecked, can escalate quickly offshore, so nothing is left to chance.
Beyond the technical elements, preparation also includes provisioning, weight management, and onboard organisation. Food, water, and essential supplies must be carefully planned to strike the right balance between endurance and performance. Space is limited, and every item onboard must earn its place.
There’s still plenty to do, but each step brings the challenge closer and builds the confidence needed to take it on. The road (or rather, the ocean) to the start line is as much a part of the adventure as the race itself, and it’s already well underway.