Would You Ride a Sofa Across the Sea? Cornish Pair Launch Wild World Record Attempt

Two adventurous locals are preparing to ride an inflatable sofa across 69 miles of open water — all to raise money for Cornwall Air Ambulance.

From Pub Idea to Guinness World Record Attempt

Friends Alex and Charlie are aiming to become the first people to complete the farthest distance towed on a towable by Guinness World Records, by riding an inflatable three-seater sofa from Falmouth to the Isles of Scilly.

They’ll be towed behind a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) for the full distance, supported by two additional boats, and are expecting the journey to take around five hours — depending on sea conditions. The challenge is expected to take place in early June when the weather and tides align.

Training for the Ride of Their Lives

The pair have been training in all weathers, carefully planning their route and taking into account the tides, swells, and wind.

Charlie, who works as a Police Officer at Falmouth Docks, said:
“Being part of a great team is where this idea stemmed from. We had been out on the water on a nice sunny summer’s day and thought why not try it. All great ideas start in the pub, so that is where it started from, and we thought why not raise some money for Cornwall Air Ambulance. We work alongside them and see how vital they are, not just for the mainland but for the Scillies as well.”

Raising Money for a Vital Lifesaving Service

Alex, a recruitment consultant, added:
“We thought why not double it up and see if a record exists, there isn’t one, so we applied and thought we’d give it a crack. So we’re ready to take on the challenge and hopefully set a world record whilst raising vital funds.

“Growing up here you realise the air ambulance is such a vital part of the community and emergency infrastructure in Cornwall, time is everything in those situations and having a second helicopter will make a huge difference. If it’s not Rescue 924 helping out it’s Cornwall Air Ambulance and first-hand we can see how vital it is, how quick they are on scene and dealing with those really poorly people. It was always going to be our number one choice.”

How to Support the Scilly Challenge

Their challenge is raising money for Cornwall Air Ambulance Trust, with all funds going towards keeping the service flying and supporting the introduction of a second helicopter, known as Heli 2.

The challenge is being supported by Jobe Watersports.

To support Alex and Charlie and help them set a new world record while raising money for a vital Cornish cause, visit their fundraising page:
👉 Scilly Challenge JustGiving Page