Chris Bertish Begins Solo Wing Transpacific Crossing

HALF MOON BAY, California - Chris Bertish, internationally acclaimed speaker, author, big-wave surfer, Guinness SUP World Record holder and Conservationist, has embarked on the Transpacific Wing Project, a solo and unassisted 2,750-mile journey by wing foil across the Pacific Ocean from Half Moon Bay, California to Oahu, Hawaii on Tuesday, June 8, 2021. Bertish was towed out two miles from Mavericks Big Wave outer buoy to launch by 12 p.m. PST.

The TWP craft (Transpacific Wing Project) with hydrofoils, measuring 19 feet long and 3 feet 7 inches wide (5.8 by 1.1 meters), was custom built for Bertish’s 2017 solo paddle journey across the Atlantic and has been updated and significantly modified with the most advanced satellite communication systems, radar, GPS, hydrofoils, and powerful wings which he will use to harness the wind to power his adventure across the Pacific. The journey will require Bertish to wing a minimum of 10-15 hours per day, for over sixty days straight, unsupported and completely unassisted.

"We are stronger than we realize, and if we set our sights on a goal and overcome a challenge, we can get through anything,” says Bertish. “I want this voyage to highlight the ocean health challenges we face and be a visual reminder that together we can cross an ocean of challenges, change and uncertainty if we choose to work hard at it and never give up—no matter what.”

During the transpacific crossing, Bertish will collect key data for science by posting weekly captain’s logs documenting valuable ocean temperatures, PH and noise pollution data that he collects along the way. Chris will also give back to education during his expedition by providing live ocean classroom sessions—a world’s first from the middle of the ocean. The ocean-themed lessons will focus on ocean health and climate change challenges, giving students actionable tips on how they, too, can make a difference in this imperative race against time.

The Transpacific Wing Project will help raise awareness and funding for charitable organizations and global initiatives including Sea Shepherd, Conservation International, Ocean Unite and ocean education and sustainability programs, all through the Chris Bertish Foundation, a 501c3 organization established in 2020 with the goal of building awareness, giving back and being a beacon of inspiration and positive change for youth and the world.

To get involved and stay updated during Chris’ journey, join the adventure HERE.