Atlantic rowers take on climate challenge – backed by Water Plus

Three adventurers have completed one of the toughest endurance challenges on the planet: rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

Their mission? Alongside row, they raised awareness about climate change, clearing ocean plastic and the importance of sustainable water use. And we’re very proud to have supported them all the way.

The Challenge

The Call to Earth crew – Stacey Rivers, John Hammond and Emma Wolstenholme – rowed in shifts, 24 hours a day, completely unsupported. They faced towering waves up to 32 feet high and completed a repair to a row lock, amidst relentless winds. They relied on solar panels for power and a water maker to convert seawater into drinking water for survival.

And every piece of waste they took onboard also returned to land, ensuring zero impact on the ocean. This gruelling event, known as the World’s Toughest Row, started in December, 2025.

Call to Earth conquered this ultimate test of endurance, resilience and commitment to the planet - and completed their row in 2026.

Why water matters

Fresh water is critical for their success – but in the middle of the Atlantic, it’s scarce. The team will depend on technology to convert sea water into drinking water to stay hydrated and prepare meals.

This challenge mirrors the global need, and our need in the UK, to value water, use it wisely, and protect this vital resource for future generations.

Tony McHardy, our Managing Director, says: “Water’s essential to businesses, communities, public services and to life, and we’re on a mission to team-up with others, including leading business and industry names, to deliver a significant increase in smarter water approaches in the UK to help the planet, people and future generations.

“Just like the awe-inspiring and intrepid Call to Earth team, we’re finding and highlighting innovative solutions to the challenges organisations face with natural resources. It’s great to combine our voices to raise awareness on the sustainable practices we can all take.”

Improving water efficiency doesn’t just help the planet it also cuts costs and reduces carbon for organisations across the UK. Our teams are already supporting more sites to closely track their water use, explore ways to reuse heated water, and make real progress towards sustainability goals.”

Their mission

“Climate change is accelerating, and while the challenges can appear overwhelming, solutions exist,” says Stacey Rivers, who developed the Call to Earth: Atlantic Row concept with John Hammond. “Our row is a call to action – to innovate, conserve, and protect our planet and having Water Plus onboard helps power our mission to drive more action.”

Emma adds: “This is one of the most extreme endurance feats on Earth. We’re combining our passion for the ocean with a mission to inspire sustainable practices.”

Positive Partnership Power

We joined forces with the Call to Earth team to amplify their message and encourage smarter water use across businesses and communities.

By reducing water waste, we can cut carbon emissions and help progress towards Net Zero goals.

 

Want to learn more about water-saving actions?

The results

The intrepid trio set a new World Record as the oldest mixed trio to cross an ocean, rowing (Ocean Rowing Stats, January 2026). Their crossing took 41 days, 1 hour and 57 minutes and the three even rescued a turtle, trapped in abandoned fishing net.

Stacey Rivers said: "As a team we rallied, digging in when it mattered most and adapting, as we know our Call to Earth was so much more than three of us in a small boat.

"Having Water Plus back our team all the way amplified our call for action and turned a wild adventure into a truly meaningful illustration of what we can achieve together, championing the benefits in taking climate actions."

Tony McHardy, our Managing Director, added: “Seeing Call to Earth complete this challenge has been nothing short of inspiring. We’re proud to back the crew and help amplify practical, sustainable solutions that can be adopted right now."

Share the cause

The Call to Earth team was also raising funds for marine conservation and climate initiatives, supporting the Blue Marine Foundation and The Ocean Cleanup. Donations help cover essential costs for the row, with any remaining funds going directly to these charities.

"We ask people to please share our story and the Call to Earth, to help reduce impacts of climate change, so together we can make a bigger positive difference for all," Stacey Rivers added, after completing the challenge.

Head over to the Call to Earth website to learn more about the team, their mission and ways to give give your support. 

Race details

The World’s Toughest Row spans 3,000 miles, from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, to Antigua & Barbuda. 43 teams from around the world took part in this epic challenge, crossing the finish line in January and February 2026.

A splash of information

News and industry updates

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience, these are broken down to essential and non-essential. Learn more