Octogenarians plan cross Channel trip

Marine veterans will use boat last used by James Bond

To the sound of the 007 theme tune, Geoff Tobert and his younger companion Ray Bulman are preparing for a mission: to cross the English Channel in a James Bond style powerboat.

But at 80 and 79 years old respectively, and with their eyesight not what it used to be, this could be easier said than done: Tobert said he struggles to undestand his TV digi box at home. The pair of seafaring friends are positive, however, that they will master the latest marine electronics to take-up the challenge.

The two men are due to retrace the route of the famous 1960s Putney to Calais powerboat races (which ended in the 1990s due to restrictions in place in the Thames) in their 17-foot restored 40-year-old classic Sovereign powerboat. The craft, built by the company now known as Sunseeker, famed for its luxury motor yachts that can cost in excess of £15m, was last used by actor Daniel Craig in the Quantum of Solace Bond movie.

Tobert, a marine industry veteran, and Bulman, a powerboating journalist, will set off on June 25th from London to Calais, but they are no strangers to risky liaisons. Forty-five years ago they motored 1,000 miles before their boat exploded while being refuelled during the return journey. This voyage is the first time that the men will be using state-of-the-art electronics to assist them.

"The Channel is one of the busiest shipping lanes in the world and therefore, we need as much assistance from the latest electronics as possible,” Bulman said.

Tobert has even entered a waypoint on his chart plotter which he's called 'Champagne at Calais' - something both men hope will be waiting for them when they arrive. Following in the footsteps of James Bond and his passion for the tipple, the gentlemen certainly have an ending planned with style.