Old Pangbournian Jess Rowe (Class of 2013) has made history after completing an extraordinary six-month row across the Pacific Ocean, becoming one half of the first duo ever to complete the journey nonstop and unsupported.

Rowe, from Hampshire, and her rowing partner Miriam Payne from East Yorkshire, arrived in Cairns, Australia, at 18:42 local time (09:42 BST) on Saturday 19 October 2025 - 165 days after setting off from Peru.

Their expedition, aptly named “Seas the Day”, covered more than 8,000 miles (13,000 km) across the world’s largest ocean, testing every ounce of their endurance, seamanship and resilience.

A Journey Defined by Grit and Determination

The pair rowed in two-hour shifts around the clock, surviving on freeze-dried rations, freshly caught fish, and a few small vegetables they managed to grow aboard their nine-metre boat, Velocity.

Their journey was not without drama. Only a few days into their first attempt in April, disaster struck when their rudder failed just 300 nautical miles off the coast of Peru, forcing them to return to port and restart in May.

Even after relaunching, the challenges mounted. “We were only on day six when we thought we might have to give up,” said Miriam Payne. “Our power was dropping, the water-maker pipes burst, but after nine repairs, we managed a bypass and just limped along with little power for the rest of the crossing.”

The pair faced isolation, exhaustion, and unpredictable weather - at times battling waves over nine metres high and 40-degree heat. But despite the odds, they pressed on.

The Final Push

As the duo approached the Queensland coast, fierce winds almost ended their bid at the last moment. “Those final few hours were brutal,” Rowe admitted. “The wind was pushing us off the channel, and we honestly thought we weren’t going to make it.”

But at sunset on Saturday, Seas the Day crossed the finish line to cheers from supporters and an emotional welcome at Cairns Marina, marking the end of one of the most demanding ocean rows ever completed by a two-woman crew.

Proudly Carrying the Pangbourne Spirit

For Pangbourne College, Jess Rowe’s achievement embodies the school’s enduring values of resilience, teamwork and adventure.

During her time at Pangbourne, Jess was known for her adventurous spirit and determination - traits that clearly carried her across 8,000 miles of open ocean. 

“Jess’s courage and perseverance are an inspiration to our entire community,” said Head, Mr Knight. “Her story reminds current students what can be achieved through teamwork, determination, and belief in oneself.”

A Mission With Purpose

The Seas the Day expedition wasn’t just about setting records, it also raised more than £80,000 for the Outward Bound Trust, supporting young people through outdoor education and adventure.

Reflecting on the journey, Rowe paid tribute to her crewmate: “I wouldn’t have done it with anyone else,” she said. “We’ve shared highs and lows, laughter and tears and now we’re excited to plan new adventures together.”

A Legacy of Adventure and Inspiration

From the classrooms and boathouses of Pangbourne to the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, Jess Rowe’s story is one of courage, commitment and character.

Her record-breaking voyage stands as a testament not only to her own endurance but also to the spirit of adventure that continues to define Pangbourne College and its alumni.

To find out more about their epic challenge visit https://www.seasthedayoceanrowing.com/

We are delighted that Jess will be sharing her extraordinary experience of rowing the Pacific with the Pangbournian Community in the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel at 5.45pm on Friday 27 February 2026. Book tickets here.

Jess Rowe will also be Guest of Honour at the Old Pangbournian Society Centenary Dinner on Saturday 28th February 2026. Book tickets here.