21 SEPTEMBER 2026 - DAWSON EDWARDS & ASSOCIATES SUPPORTS ZIRK BOTHA’S HISTORIC PROJECT OCX EXPEDITION

Zirk Botha with a handheld paddle ahead of Project OCX.

Dawson Edwards & Associates is proud to support South African adventurer and world-record-holding ocean rower Zirk Botha as he prepares for Project OCX—an ambitious solo and unsupported expedition across the South Atlantic Ocean.

Zirk plans to depart from Cape Town in December 2026 and paddle approximately 7,200 kilometres to Brazil in a purpose-built ocean-going outrigger canoe. Project OCX is intended to be the first solo attempt to paddle across the South Atlantic in this type of vessel.

The expedition will bring together ancient seafaring principles, modern technology, renewable energy and exceptional human endurance.

From a record-breaking row to a world-first paddle

Project OCX will be fundamentally different from Zirk’s previous Atlantic crossing.

On 19 December 2020, Zirk departed Cape Town aboard Ratel, an ocean rowing boat that he had largely built himself. He completed the crossing at Cabo Frio, Brazil, on 28 February 2021, after approximately 7,200 kilometres and 69 days alone at sea.

The solo and unsupported voyage set a world record, improving on the previous 92-day record held by a two-person crew. It also made Zirk the first South African to complete this South Atlantic route alone.

This time, however, Zirk will not be rowing. In ocean rowing, the oars are fixed to the boat and the rower generally faces backwards while pulling them through the water. The outward journey from Cape Town to Brazil will instead be undertaken in a specially designed outrigger canoe called OCX. Zirk will face forwards and propel OCX with a handheld paddle. The broader expedition envisages a return voyage to Cape Town using kite power, completing the journey through human effort and natural forces rather than conventional propulsion.

Design rendering of the purpose-built Project OCX outrigger canoe.

A modern interpretation of an ancient vessel

Outrigger canoes have transported people across extensive stretches of open ocean for centuries. Project OCX draws inspiration from that seafaring heritage while adapting the concept for a modern transatlantic expedition.

The craft combines a main hull with an outrigger float to provide stability. Its modern construction has been designed to reduce weight while providing the strength and resilience required for an extended ocean crossing.

Zirk recently completed the first launch and stability testing of OCX at the False Bay Yacht Club in Simon’s Town. Following the initial test, he reported that the craft moved well once it had gained momentum. Further adjustments and extensive training will form part of the preparations before departure.

OCX during its first launch and stability testing at False Bay Yacht Club in Simon’s Town.

Although Zirk’s paddle will provide the propulsion during the outward crossing, solar energy will play an essential supporting role. Solar-charged batteries will power equipment including the water desalinator, navigation and safety systems, radio and satellite communications.

The distinction is important: OCX is human-powered, while renewable energy enables Zirk to produce drinking water, navigate safely and remain in communication during the crossing.

An expedition with a wider purpose

For Zirk, Project OCX is about more than completing another endurance challenge or establishing a record.

His 2020–2021 Atlantic crossing was intended to promote awareness of sustainability, responsible consumption and the importance of renewable energy. Because it took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zirk felt that the environmental message did not receive the reach or attention he had hoped to achieve.

Rather than accepting that outcome, he decided to undertake something even more ambitious.

Project OCX will provide a new platform from which to demonstrate how traditional knowledge, renewable energy and modern innovation can work together. It also carries a message about perseverance and the ability to pursue an important objective despite previous obstacles.

As Zirk explains, passion is central to achieving an ambitious goal: when people feel strongly about something and are prepared to commit themselves fully to it, extraordinary achievements can come within their grasp.

Why Dawson Edwards & Associates is supporting Project OCX

Dawson Edwards & Associates has a strong focus on maritime, commercial and environmental law. Project OCX therefore has a particular relevance for our firm.

The expedition brings together the ocean, sustainability, renewable-energy technology, innovation and individual determination. It also provides an opportunity to encourage a wider conversation about responsible interaction with the marine environment and the role that sustainable technology can play in future ocean endeavours.

We are pleased to support Zirk as he prepares for this remarkable challenge. We look forward to following his training, the continuing development of OCX and his eventual progress across the South Atlantic.