Branson backs powerboat record
Updated on 17 September 2007
Entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson is backing a bid to break the world record for circumnavigating the globe in a powerboat run on 100% renewable fuel.
Sir Richard, who is renowned for his social campaigning and financial golden touch, has yet to pledge cash to the Earthrace project. But his interest raises the profile of the attempt to shave 10 days off the 75-day record while increasing awareness of environmentally-friendly biofuels.
If the bid succeeds it will be the first time an official UIM Powerboat world record has been broken using only renewable fuel.
A crew of four will begin their 24,000 nautical mile journey from Malaga in Spain in March next year.
Sir Richard took a 45-minute trip on the extraordinary looking craft from St Catherine's Dock, on the Thames, to Chelsea Harbour.
As he stepped ashore, he said: "We're certainly looking at this as a possible project to get involved in and fund - it's extremely worthwhile. I'm a big supporter of biofuels and I think it's important to raise awareness of how efficient they are."
The sleek silver boat, skippered by New Zealander Pete Bethune, will make a net zero carbon footprint during its trip by purchasing carbon offset to balance CO2 emissions.
The B100 bio-diesel it uses emits around 20% of the CO2 given off by conventional diesel, but it is equally efficient, allowing the boat to reach speeds of up to 40 knots.
The Earthrace showcases a range of environmentally friendly technologies, such as a low-emissions engine, non-toxic underwater paint and an efficient hull design.
It is also the first boat in the world to use a hemp composite material in its interior, which is renewable unlike the carbon or kevlar normally used. The craft can also submarine through heavy seas and notch up a higher average speed than regular boats by going up to seven metres under water.
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