Steve Chetcuti has made history as the first Maltese man ever to complete an unsupported solo crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, a monumental feat of endurance, resilience and determination that places him firmly in the annals of ocean rowing.
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The 55-year-old rower arrived in English Harbour, Antigua in the early hours of Saturday, completing the grueling 3,000-mile journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands after 54 days, 7 hours and 56 minutes alone at sea.
Chetcuti piloted his 25-foot rowing vessel, named in honour of his three daughters, entirely on his own as part of the World’s Toughest Row, one of the most demanding ocean challenges in endurance sport. Battling relentless waves, sleep deprivation and isolation, he accomplished a dream that few have dared to attempt and even fewer have completed.
On his final push to the finish line, Chetcuti rowed continuously for 16 hours to reach Antigua, where he was welcomed onshore by his Swiss wife, his mother and his sister.
This journey marked Chetcuti’s second Atlantic crossing, his first was as part of a team in 2021, but his first endeavour entirely alone and unsupported.
Reflecting on the challenge, Chetcuti spoke of the physical and mental toll of solitary ocean life, sharing that prolonged isolation and seasickness tested him to his limits. Yet his courage and perseverance saw him through, earning not just a personal triumph but a proud moment for Malta’s sporting community.
Chetcuti plans to take a short rest in Antigua before returning home, where his record-setting achievement will no doubt inspire others to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
