Together with Ronja, we traveled to Wassenaar, Holland, where she was once again put through her paces by our boat builder, Mark Slats, and his team at the Ocean Rowing Company. Ronja received her finishing touches before being shipped to La Gomera, along with all the necessary supplies—food, safety equipment, medication, and more.

This was another exciting milestone for our team!

In a couple months, we’ll head to La Gomera to join the other 39 racing teams. Once there, we’ll stay busy with briefings and check-ins from the race organizers, Atlantic Campaigns, before setting sail on December 12th to begin our long-awaited adventure.

Carla & Katrin

"A huge thank you to Berner Mandelbärli AG for their delicious support! Their Mandelbärli treats will not only sweeten our days but will also give us that extra boost we need as we take on this incredible challenge."

Carla and Katrin

The Berner Mandelbärli are sweet ambassadors of Bern, inspired by the city’s heraldic animal. Created for the 125th anniversary of Beck Glatz Confiserie AG, these delightful almond bears are a beloved symbol, inspired by the figures on Bern's Zytglogge tower, which parade around every hour as watchmen of the city.

Famous across Switzerland, the Mandelbärli now come in three sizes and an array of 21 exciting flavors, varying with the seasons. Loved by young and old alike, these light, delicious treats continue to surprise and delight with new flavor creations year after year.

Safety is our top priority, and we’re beyond excited to welcome Securitas Direct as our Gold Partner! Their trust in us and the Atlantic Arrow project means the world, and we’re incredibly grateful for their generous support. The stunning branding they’ve created for our boat, Ronja, is absolutely fantastic, and we couldn’t be prouder to have them by our side as we embark on this journey.

Carla & Katrin

Securitas Direct is Switzerland’s leader in intelligent alarm and security systems. For over 30 years, they’ve been delivering custom security solutions to private individuals and small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), using the latest technology. Their services go beyond burglary protection, covering threats like water and fire damage, ensuring peace of mind for their customers. With a vision that everyone in Switzerland should feel safe and protected, Securitas Direct is available around the clock, seven days a week, so their customers can live and work worry-free.

On Saturday, August 24, 2024, under the bright summer sun, we had the pleasure of welcoming our invited guests—including sponsors, family, and friends—to the Faul shipyard in Erlach.

During a relaxed and friendly gathering, we shared updates on the work we've completed for the Atlantic Arrow project and outlined the next steps leading up to our launch in La Gomera.

The highlight of the day was the christening of our newly branded boat, Ronja, led by the legendary harbor master and proud godfather, Fredy Faul. It was an unforgettable moment that truly marked the occasion.

After the ceremony, we enjoyed delicious fish crispies, generously prepared by Martin Marcel from Ligerz. We are so grateful for his contribution.

We also extend special thanks to:

• Securitas Direct, FH Solution, and SECO Seco Publicité for their exceptional and creative branding of Ronja.
• Werft Faul for hosting the event and providing the perfect venue.
• Berner Mandelbärli for the sweet treats and the lovely gift basket.
• Old Crow for the smoky-flavored whisky made in-house.
• Fleurop Switzerland and Blumen Chopard for the vibrant floral table decorations.
• André Brun, who graced us with a spontaneous and festive alphorn performance, adding a beautiful musical touch to the celebration.

A huge thanks to our dedicated crew of helpers for their support before, during, and after the event. And a special mention to Astrid Schmid, our communications officer, who will be keeping everyone updated with photos and stories during the Atlantic crossing.

Finally, thank you to everyone who joined us for this important moment in our journey.

With gratitude,
Carla & Katrin

"Partners not only in daily business but also across the Atlantic - many thanks to MHZ, whom we welcome on board as a bronze partner.”

Carla & Katrin

For over 90 years, MHZ has been synonymous with custom-made privacy, sun, and insect protection. Their products are distinguished by their high quality, elegant design, and cutting-edge technology. From interior and exterior privacy and sun protection to insect screens for windows, doors, and skylights, our portfolio has it all.

Perfection and individuality are the hallmarks of their work. Each system is crafted to measure in their industrial factory. As a traditional family business, now in its third generation, they continue to be led by the descendants of their founder. With approximately 1,600 dedicated employees, MHZ serves serve customers worldwide, and has products available through their network of dealers.

"We'd like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Noberasco for helping us enjoy the goodness of fruit even while we're far from the mainland. Their dried fruit, nuts, and bars will be giving us the extra energy and essential nutrients needed for our Atlantic crossing. Thank you for your support!" 

Carla & Katrin

Noberasco is an Italian family company founded in 1908 by Benedetto. Noberasco; now led by the third and fourth generation, it has become the leading Italian company in the dried and dehydrated fruit sector.

It is recognized all over the world thanks to the quality and naturalness of its products, the ability to innovate and a long history of internationalization.

"A big thank you to EVY Technology for the great product sponsorship to protect our skin!"

Carla & Katrin

Experience the future of sun care with EVY Technology, where Swedish innovation meets superior skin protection. They've developed a unique formula that not only deeply penetrates the skin but also enhances its natural defense against the harsh effects of the environment. Recommended by dermatologists and suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive, EVY Technology offers long-lasting, effective protection without compromising on environmental responsibility. With their commitment to quality, safety, and sustainability, they're not just protecting your skin—they're preserving the planet.

"There will be no shortage of water while crossing the Atlantic, and a desalination plant will turn it into safe drinking water for us during our row. However, it’s safe to say that when we arrive in Antigua – sparkling, chilled water will taste EXTRA delicious!  We’d like to thank Quooker for supporting us as bronze partner!’’

Carla & Katrin

Quooker is a family business built on enthusiasm and entrepreneurial spirit. The Quooker was the world's first boiling water tap. Inventions such as the high vacuum insulated reservoir, the all-in-one Fusion and Flex faucets and the black boiling water faucet series created a revolution in the kitchen. The Quooker brings convenience and efficiency to the kitchen, reducing energy consumption and promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

"Thanks Fleurop-Interflora AG for the trust and support as bronze partner – emotions are assured!!!’’

Carla & Katrin

Flowers and plants delivered around the world within just hours! This is the motto Fleurop has been living every day since founded in 1908.  

Fleurop-Interflora is the world’s largest international flower delivery network with talented florists located across the globe dedicated to upholding the brand values of quality, trust, and expertise.

Fleurop is delighted to accompany Carla and Katrin on their journey and are prepared to celebrate their success with the the world’s best florals!

Team Ocean's 4 from Thun was the first Swiss team to row across the Pacific from Monterey, California to Kauai, Hawaii in summer of 2023.

Their lucky charm, which accompanied them on the 4,444 km journey was the membership coin, made from scrap material from original ‘’Little SWISS LADY’’ aluminium plates. In December of 2022, this coin also crossed the Atlantic in a rowing boat with Tonya Müller and her team of 12.

This January, at Ocean's 4 showcase, the team honored us with this very special coin that will now join us on our upcoming adventure. We are so grateful for this gesture and to have this lucky talisman onboard! 

Thank you Ocean's 4 for your support,

Carla & Katrin

"Welcome RETRALOG AG on board as a strong bronze partner - thank you for your support!’’

Carla & Katrin

RETRALOG AG is your partner for national freight transport in Switzerland. Six days a week, our 170 employees use 110 low-emission lorries to transport freight for large companies – including Swiss Post, Migros, Emil Frey AG and Kuhne+Nagel AG. With our base in Solothurn, close to the Egerkingen transport hub, we are right in the logisitcal heart of Switzerland. If you are looking for an ecologically oriented freight carrier with decases of experience – look no further than RETRALOG AG!

"A big thank you to Betty Bossi for the daily moments of happiness and pleasure.’’

Carla & Katrin

Betty Bossi is Switzerland's leading culinary company. With a diverse range of products for cooking, baking, and savouring, Betty Bossi shapes the Swiss cuisine like no other. With the vision to provide everyone an easy way to enjoy food – Betty Bossi is passionate about devleoping products and services for every need and/or want.

"An incredibly challenging project and a great inspiration for us all, The World's Toughest Row challenge is definitely not the easiest way to enjoy food. We wish Carla and Katrin the best of luck on their journey!"

"Many thanks to Bolliger + Co AG for the great support! We are happy to be accompanied across the Atlantic by our bronze partner.’’

Carla & Katrin

Bolliger + Co AG offers professional pipe cleaning, sewer cleaning, street cleaning, and vacuuming services in the Mittelland region. Our experienced teams are ready to work efficiently and reliably to get the job done. You can rely on our expertise so you can focus on what's important to you.

As a partner of the Atlantic Row project, Bolliger + Co AG is proud to support the crew on their adventure, while sharing the values of teamwork, community and environmental. Contact us for world-class services and discover how we can support your endeavours as well!

"Thank you to the KATADYN GROUP for a generous supply of a variety of outdoor food from TREK' N EAT.’’ 

Carla & Katrin

The KATADYN GROUP is a global group with a broad brand portfolio specialized in the area of self-sufficient nutrition and drinking water supply - Katadyn, Trek'n Eat, AlpineAire Foods, Optimus, Pharmavoyage, Micropur, Certisil, Steripen and Spectra. The Group provides products and solutions for the outdoor and marine industries as well as for industrial and municipal needs. The products range from freeze-dried speciality foods and outdoor kitchens to land-based water desalination systems and industrial disinfection systems. Humanitarian aid organizations and militaries have also been regular customers of the Swiss group for many years.

Atlantic Arrow will be enjoying Trek'n Eat products which are freeze-dried foods that just needs water to prepare – perfect for journeys, expeditions, boats and outdoor excursions. Preparation is simple: open the packet, add boiling water, stir, allow to stand for 8-10 minutes and the meal is ready.

"Thank you for the great trust you have placed in us. We are more than proud to have Schnider GmbH on board as a Bronze Partner.’’

Carla & Katrin

Schnider GmbH, based in Riedholz (SO), is a family-owned business with the aim of creating building technology installations while offering professional maintenance and upkeep for them. We plan and execute new buildings and conversions in residential and industrail construction in the areas of plumbing and heating systems.

Through innovative thinking in the field of renewable energy and the implementation of our systems, we can achieve the necessary holistic solutions.

Our mission is to offer people comfortable living and we do this by providing quality service and advice, while advocating for our customers. A well-developed infrastructure and a competent team allows us to exceed the expecations of our clients.

"Thanks to the support of Umwelthelden and their owner, Maria, we are able to meet our everyday hygienic needs in an environmentally friendly and responsible way!"

Carla & Katrin

Umwelthelden.ch is one of the most environmentally conscious online retailers showcasing a wide variety of sustainable and vegan lifestyle products. From the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond -  Umwelthelden offers solutions for every room, because for them, no area is exempt from environmental protection.
The mission of Umwelthelden is to prove that every individual can make a difference, and you don't have to be perfect or live completely plastic-free. Join the movement of #environmentalheroes who are making small changes every day to make our world a better place - together we can truly create a positive change!

"Many thanks to 32TODAY and especially to Jael for the varied article about our project!"

Carla & Katrin

"The great engagement of werk5 allows us to present ourselves professionally."

Carla & Katrin

Werk5 AG is a competent partner for complete solutions in textile finishing and advertising technology. In addition to the large range of workwear, sports and leisure textiles in their textile shop, they also offer all service areas such as textile printing, transfer printing, embroidery, digital printing, screen printing, lettering etc. from a single source. For 30 years, they have been the right place to go from the start when it comes to fully comprehensive advice with dedicated service.

We visited «THE OCEAN ROWING COMPANY» in Wassenaar, Holland in July. Mark Slats, the innovative boat builder as well as managing director and himself a two-time world record holder in ocean rowing, welcomed us for a first training on the D12-Boat.
The eight-hour trip on the canals and the Rhine around Wassenaar was a real challenge... The headwind (20 knots) as well as the waves and the rain that started later only gave us an idea of what to expect on the Atlantic. But true to our motto "everything is beautiful - everything hurts", we showed no weakness and accepted and mastered the challenge without a mumble.
The next day Daisy Peters , from «PAUW SPORT», gave us an intensive circuit training and showed us that we still had some sweaty hours ahead of us....
Last but not least, we helped Mark in his workshop with the production of carbon windows. In addition to the physical strain, it is vital to know the material and the equipment and instruments we carry by heart and to be able to repair them in an emergency.

We are incredibly proud to have Mark, an innovative boat builder and inspiring sportsman, on board. For us, the trip to the north was instructive, motivating and enjoyable at the same time - it can continue like this!

www.pauwsport.nl

“We gladly welcome Conower Snacks as an Equipment Partner that will help provide us with the necessary energy for this adventure.”

Carla & Katrin

Conower stands for a protein-rich diet, but also for sport and adventure!

Conower Snackers are the finest beef snacks with a hearty bite and an incomparable taste. High protein and low fat for the ultimate snacking experience. Conower is made from 100% lean meat from European cattle and is produced in Europe following the highest quality standards.

The natural taste of Conower Jerky is free of preservatives and any flavor enhancers – they provide a natural high-protein guarantee for athletes, adventurers, and all those who like to test their limits!

The Conower brand was founded in Germany and has belonged to the Ospelt Group from Liechtenstein since 2018. The family-owned company has been active in the food industry for 65 years and today is an international group producing at five different locations. Its brands, Malbuner and le Parfait, are among Switzerlands’ best-known and enjoyed food products.

“We are incredibly excited to partner with Bucher + Walt who will be supporting us with not only their expertise, but also their quality water sport products.”

Carla & Katrin

Bucher + Walt distributors of your choice brands in sport, electronics, and nautical.

Bucher + Walt was founded in 1966 by Pierre Walt and Manfred Bucher. The successful racing sailors and friends turned their passion into a business. Success proved them right, as the company’s record shows.

The company started by importing nautical fittings, followed by action sport gear and finally electronic products, this company has continued to broaden its area of expertise and knowledge. Each integrated brand in their portfolio is seen as a journey towards improving internal processes, living new passions, and setting new trends. The family-owned company is committed to the long-term, which allows them to build healthy and respectful business relationships.

“We welcome the company Affolter Holzbau as our first bronze partner – from the bottom of our hearts, we are so grateful for their support!”

Carla & Katrin

Affolter Holzbau are timber construction experts – using wood to create exactly what their customers want – regardless of whether its just a rough idea, or a very specific vision. Affolter Holzbau also prides themselves on providing honest and reliable service.

“We’d like to thank SIGG for their generosity as an equipment sponsor.”

Carla & Katrin

With the goal of caring for the environment, Sigg has been offering sustainable alternatives to the disposable PET bottle for more than 100 years. Sigg is a Swiss manufacturing company with its headquarters in Frauenfeld. Sigg bottles are designed and manufactured in Switzerland from aluminum and polypropylene or in China from stainless steel and glass. The company is famous because of the iconic shape its classic bottle and numerous designs which have led to its addition to the permanent design collection of the New York Museum of Modern Art. Throughout Sigg’s long history, they have remained true to their values of quality, innovation, and environmental awareness.

With CHF 50 you buy as a donator one mile of our adventure and from CHF 100 your name finds a place on the boat and crosses the Atlantic together with us. The more miles you buy, the bigger your name becomes.

A big thank you to our outfitter ERIMA.

Carla & Katrin

ERIMA is a high-performance, service-oriented company with subsidiaries in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. For over a century they have been offering everything from a single source: textiles, bags, balls, and the necessary sports accessories for almost every type of sport in top quality, with a distinct design and maximum functionality.

To specifically highlight ERIMA’s extensive commitments in Switzerland, Rene Mattmann, ERIMA Switzerland’s Managing Director shared that “in 2021, we partnered with no less than 15 sports federations.” Partners include the Swiss Paralympic team, handball and volleyball players, and the Swiss Shooting Association – proving that ERIMA is a fixture in most areas of Swiss sports.

The company also has top-class teams under contract, such as HC KriensLuzern and Volley Amriswil who play in the top NLA handball and volleyball leagues. And Alligator Malans has been relying on ERIMA products for over 20 years now.

ERIMA is truly the brand for all team athletes, competitors, sports fans.

A crucial step in our preparation process has been accomplished with the completion of mandatory RYA courses, which include Marina Radio (SRC), Essential Navigation Seamanship Skills, Sea Survival, First Aid, and the Ocean Rowing Course from Atlantic Campaigns.

Atlantic Arrow would like to thank Tim, Sue, and Charlie from Seasports Southwest, who shared their extensive knowledge and passion with the team.

Thanks is also extended to Fraser from Atlantic Campaigns for the vast information on the race expectations, from the preparation phase to the arrival in Antigua, and everything in between.

The rowers of Atlantic Arrow are better prepared for the challenge ahead – let’s just hope the survival skills are never actually needed.

www.seasports-sw.com

“We are delighted to have AKROS on board as our first gold partner. True to their motto, “strong together, successful together,” we look forward to partaking in this adventure together.”

Carla & Katrin

AKROS (part of the Noser Group) is the leading Swiss service provider for customized IT solutions. AKROS combines technological expertise with industry knowledge to create sustainable digital solutions. Their services include business process integration, software solution development, and data management.

Since 1986, AKROS has been supporting their clients in the public sector, energy sector, finance sector, and healthcare sector. Because of their focus on clients, AKROS has successfully grown to a company of over 160 specialists located in Biel, Bern, Lucerne, and Zurich.