The fastest commercial vessel in Ireland has achieved the first part of its world record attempt – racing from Killybegs to Reykjavik in under 32 hours.
Thunder Child II and her crew left the south Donegal fishing port on Thursday on their World record attempt: ‘Ireland to Iceland’.
“Crossing the start line in Killybegs and the finish line in Rejkavik (Iceland) in just under 32hrs,” a spokesperson for the crew said.
“We traveled 866 nautical miles, averaging just over 30kts underway. The hardest leg was the North Atlantic where we were punching a head sea swell all the way. Tomorrow we continue on our voyage North.”
Thunder Child II and its crew taking a break in Vestmannaeyjar, on its way to Reykjavik. Pic: Safehaven Marine.
The crew is currently continuing its journey above the Arctic Circle and East Greenland, their ultimate destination, where the sea ice is now clear south of Scoresby Sund.
Built in Cork by Safehaven Marine, Thunder Child II is valued at over €1m and is designed for high speed, with minimal turbulence. The 23 metre long speedboat has four 650 bhp engines, can reach a maximum speed of 54 knots, has a fuel capacity of 8,000 litres and can travel up to 750 nautical miles (nm) before refueling.
Thunder Child II berthed in Killybegs Marina last week. Pic: of Safehaven Marine.