Rowing Across the Mediterranean with NOMAN

May 16, 2025

Miles Away From your Comfort Zone

40 degree heat, sea swells, salt sores, blisters, dehydration, sea sickness… The decision to take on the adventure of rowing across the Mediterranean is not one that is taken lightly.

NOMAN’s Barcelona - Ibiza: Row to End HPV brings together like-minded individuals from all walks of life to leave their comfort zone and pursue adventure, all in the name of ending HPV cancers.

HPV is the causal agent of 5% of cancers and although the virus affects both males and females, frequently conversation and policy to solve this issue often excludes the former. NOMAN: Race to End HPV leads global advocacy efforts for gender-neutral HPV immunisation through a proven model of advocacy & education, coalition building, and generating data and evidence to support this intervention. Over 70 countries now undertake gender-neutral HPV immunisation, vs zero just over a decade ago. For over a decade, the Row to End HPV has served as a powerful vehicle to spread awareness of this important issue, whilst bringing together like-minded individuals from all walks of life to leave their comfort zone and pursue adventure in the name of a cause.

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Being out on an ocean rowing boat provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature. With nothing but the vast expanse of water surrounding them, rowers are able to truly disconnect from the distractions and stresses of everyday life and find a sense of peace and tranquility in the simplicity of the ocean. Whether it's the sound of the waves rippling across the bow as you pull yourself forward stroke-by-stroke, or the sight of the sun rising or setting over the water.

Wildlife in the Open Ocean

One of the most exciting and awe-inspiring experiences for rowers crossing the Mediterranean is encountering dolphins and whales in the open ocean. These majestic and intelligent creatures are known to swim alongside rowing boats, providing a thrilling and unforgettable experience for those on board. As they glide through the water, dolphins and whales seem to dance and play, offering a rare and up-close look at these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. In addition to the thrill of encountering dolphins and whales, rowers doing the crossing are also treated to the breathtaking sight of the stars overhead. With no light pollution to obscure the view, rowers are able to see the stars in all their glory. It is a perspective that few people ever have the chance to experience, and one that is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who do.

When crossing the Mediterranean on an ocean rowing boat, nutrition and eating habits are just as crucial as physical training and mental preparation. In fact, poor nutrition and meal planning can lead to decreased energy levels, sickness, and impaired recovery, making the already challenging task of rowing across the sea even more difficult.

Nobody ever gains weight when doing an ocean row!

Rowers should aim to consume upwards of 6000 calories per day, depending on their size, weight, and metabolism. This may seem like a lot, but it is necessary to compensate for the high level of physical activity and calorie burn experienced during a long ocean row.

Due to the physical demands of ocean rowing, athletes often struggle to maintain their weight, especially as it takes time to get used to the increased calorie intake. To combat this, rowers can aim to gain 5-10% of their body weight in the weeks leading up to the row, which can provide additional energy reserves and minimize the risk of muscle wasting and injury.

Rowers taking on the NOMAN Mediterranean races are advised to have one breakfast, 2 main meals (800 calories each - Expedition Foods) and a slightly lighter pudding in addition to snack bags throughout the day.