The finish line of this epic maritime marathon was crossed on October 2, 2026, off the Kenyan coast near the town of Kilifi. Bell began his journey on November 9, 2025, pushing off from the shores of Peru. Throughout this time, his only home was an 8.3-meter (27-foot) carbon-fiber boat aptly named Billy No Mates. Under strict record-verification rules, the adventurer was strictly forbidden from setting foot on land or receiving any physical assistance from the outside.

The physical toll of this record was immense. Bell rowed for 12 hours a day, simultaneously fulfilling the roles of navigator, cook, and boat repairman. During the voyage, he had to single-handedly fix a broken rudder three times, battling the daily whims of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

Upon returning to solid ground, the exhausted but triumphant adventurer confessed that his greatest desires are now incredibly simple and down-to-earth:

«I’m so glad to get back to [my girlfriend] Georgie. I can’t wait to have a pint of beer, take the longest shower of my life, and sleep in a proper bed,» Bell shared.

The expedition pursued not only sporting but also noble goals. Thanks to his unprecedented crossing, Dave managed to raise over £112,000 in donations. The funds will be directed to a charitable foundation that supports military personnel, veterans, and emergency service workers facing psychological challenges.

The Brit’s triumph eclipsed the previous achievement of American Jacob Adoram. In 2019, Adoram crossed only the Pacific Ocean (from the US to Australia), covering 6,140 nautical miles (about 11,370 km) in 335 days and 22 hours. Bell more than doubled these figures, linking two great oceans into one continuous and grueling route.