Planning an ocean voyage around Africa in a human powered pedal boat is no small feat. It requires a great amount of preparation, dedication, and careful consideration. This type of journey is not for the faint of heart, and no detail can be overlooked.
The first step in planning a journey like this is to consider the type of boat you will use. Obviously, a human powered pedal boat is a must. However, not all pedal boats are created equal. You will need to find one that is durable enough to withstand the high seas, and that can accommodate all of your supplies. Additionally, it will need to be outfitted with safety equipment and navigation tools.
After obtaining the right boat, the next step is to plan your route. It is important to note that not all oceans are created equal. The Atlantic and Indian Oceans, which border Africa, can be particularly rough, and you will need to be prepared for strong winds and high waves. This type of journey requires a great deal of ocean navigation expertise, which will help you avoid treacherous conditions and help you get the best route.
It is also important to have a clear understanding of the various ports of entry along your journey. Packing necessary supplies will take a lot of space. You will need to pack food, water, and other essentials in such a way that they will last for the duration of your journey. As you plan your route, you will also need to consider where you will be able to restock your supplies and recharge your devices. Careful planning is necessary since it will be difficult to access to the internet and GPS signal in remote areas.
Another important element to consider in planning an ocean voyage around Africa is the time of year. Weather conditions vary from season to season, and it is common for the weather to be unpredictable in many areas. Thus, it would be better to learn and understanding of weather patterns around the region.
In addition to planning the basic elements of the voyage and the route, it is crucial to have a solid contingency plan in place. Even with the most careful planning, things can still go awry during such a journey. Plan B options include changing the route, heading for a different port, and the whole process process of the journey may be time-consuming when this happens. Therefore, one should be willing to put in the extra time and resources necessary when encountering issues like these.
Lastly, it is important to consider the various legal requirements for the journey. There may be different permits and licenses that are needed depending on the countries that will be traversed during the journey. Regulations related to customs, port entry, and vessel requirements will differ for each country. And as a foreigner, one may face different restrictions and requirements as well. Having a detailed plan for the legal aspects of the journey is an important part of the preparation process.
In conclusion, planning an ocean voyage around Africa in a human powered pedal boat requires immense preparation and careful planning. Ensuring that the boat is durable enough, packing the necessary supplies, mapping out your route, and knowing how to deal with adverse weather conditions will go a long way toward ensuring success during this journey. Having a solid contingency plan and understanding the legal requirements for each country that will be traversed is also vital. Make plenty of time in preparation, get some advice from expert sailors who are familiar with the region and then embark on this remarkable African ocean voyage.