Over three years ago, when I rowed away from the tiny island of La Gomera I never actually expected to return. But it seems the island has a special draw. In 2009 I spent a happy week back in San Sebastian helping the Atlantic Rowing Race entrants prepare. Then last year I again found myself enjoying some winter sun, roadside cafes and traditional Spanish music, but on the other side of the island in Valle Gran Rey. And the reason? An ocean going raft called An-Tiki!Â
About 12 months ago, I received an email from a chap called Robin Batchelor. Robin is actually a balloon pilot, and one of his many claims to fame is having taught Richard Branson to fly balloons – as well as being mistaken for Sir B on a regular basis! If you’ve ever seen a movie with a balloon stunt in, then the chances are that you’ve seen Robin hard at work. But this request was nothing to do with flying. Instead, Robin is the project manager for his friend Anthony Smith and was hunting for information on how to cross the Atlantic on a raft  … Pictures & More