'Earthrace' docks at Cochin port

Kochi, May 13 (UNI) Earthrace, a 100 per cent bio-diesel powered boat on its quest to break the world record for the circum navigation of the earth, today called at the Cochin Port for repair and refuelling purposes.

The power boat captained by New Zealander Pete Bethone, which started its voyage on March 10 from Barbados, aims to break the current record of 75 days set by UK-based Cable and Wireless in 1988 to circumnavigate the globe.

The tour would also aim to promote eco-friendly fuels like biodiesel and raise awareness about sustainable use of resources, he added.

The boat, manned by seven crew members, had so far travelled 14,000 nautical miles and would be proceeding to Salalah in Oman from here tomorrrow.

''The boat engine was damaged as it negotiated choppy waters in its journey from Singapore to Kochi and some repair work had to be undertaken to mend the engine,'' Mr Bethone added.

He said the voyage was generally smooth until now, except a collision with a fishing boat in Gautemala waters which damaged the boat's bow.

''After the accident the boat was impounded by the authorities concerned and we lost precious 18 days,'' he added.

To compensate for the lost time, the boat would be finishing its 24,500 nautical mile voyage at San Diego, he said.

When asked whether he was opitmistic in breaking the world record, Mr Bethone answered in the affirmative.

The boat, powered by a 1080 horse power engine, costs three million US Dollars and a further 1.5 million dollars for the project was made of carbon and kevlar and designed to pierce the waves during its voyage.

UNI