Chinese sailor takes on the challenge of crossing the Strait of Gibraltar on an electric surfboard

02/12/2021
    Recently, Chinese sailor Han Xiao took on the challenge of crossing the Strait of Gibraltar on an electric surfboard.
    This was a recent scene at sea. Han Xiao, who had crossed the Gulf of Aden wearing a bulletproof vest, had been preparing for more than three months before and after this time, with the goal of crossing the Strait of Gibraltar on an electric surfboard.
    Compared to traditional surfing, electric surfing is becoming popular worldwide as it is largely free from the requirements of wind and wave conditions and allows people to enjoy the challenges and pleasures of surfing over a wider range of time and water. The Strait of Gibraltar is the gateway between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic, at its narrowest point it is only 13km and the surrounding area has a Mediterranean climate with frequent storms in the summer and autumn.
    Han Xiao's chosen crossing option is from the port of Algeciras in southern Spain to the port of Ceuta, a straight line distance of approximately 30 km. Taking into account the complex wave conditions, the course of the boat and the effect of the currents on the crossing, the actual distance traveled was much more. It was certainly an adventurous and extreme journey.
    Han Xiao says he is confident that his WaveShark electric hydrofoil board, which has a top speed of 45 km/h and a maximum range of 180 minutes, and a sturdy and reliable body made of ultra-light carbon fiber, will make him feel confident for the trip.
    Through the challenge, he also hopes to raise awareness of the African refugees who have died after being smuggled across the route to Europe.
    During the first half of the challenge, Han and Niels set off at the same time and were challenged by the dense and chaotic waves. As observed on site, the waves were frequently pounding against the bottom of the board, leaving Han Xiao and his team to move at a slow pace. But the aforementioned scene occurred just as the African continent was in sight.
    Fortunately, Niels reached the African coast despite being yawed and successfully crossed the Strait of Gibraltar on his WaveShark electric hydrofoil. Although he regretted that he had abandoned the challenge when success was within his grasp, Han also graciously congratulated Niels. In his opinion, whoever completed the challenge on a Chinese "smart" electric surfboard was a victory for China.
    Han said he will be taking on the challenge again at some point and is looking forward to undisputed success. "It's my dream to travel back home through many different seas and countries. I hope to pass on the dream of sailing to more people."
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