Fifteen years ago, I lost my best friend to Alzheimer’s. We shared many adventures together on the high seas, and I know he would have been proud to see this first voyage dedicated to his memory and in support of such a worthy charity.

Eight years ago, I bought a 21ft 1985 Corribee sailing boat, which I have been restoring ever since. After crossing the Severn Bridge countless times, I’ve always dreamed of taking on the challenge — despite the river’s notorious tidal dangers — of navigating my own boat down the River Severn.

The journey will begin at Stourport-on-Severn, the most inland port in the UK, before travelling downstream to Gloucester. From there, I will join the Gloucester & Sharpness Canal to catch the high tide at Sharpness on the Severn Estuary, before continuing on to Portishead Marina near Avonmouth.

Apart from the physical discomforts of spending three or four nights aboard a small boat, the route itself presents a demanding and unpredictable challenge. Nevertheless, despite the “mature age” of the crew, I intend to complete this voyage come hell or high water.

Challenge Details

Distance:Approximately 75 miles

Journey Time: 3–4 days (weather permitting)

Timing: Mid-May 2026

Donations: 100% of funds raised will go to charity.

At Alzheimer’s Society they are working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.

They do this by giving help to those living with dementia today, and providing hope for the future.