Ocean Crusaders was launched in 2010 off the back of a sailing campaign when founder Ian Thomson, set a new world record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of Australia. He took in excess of 26 days off the standing record. This record still stands today.
In 2019 founders Ian & Annika purchased TP52 Hull #2 and spent nearly 3 years converting it to a very fast Racer/Cruiser. She was also converted to be an ‘electric’ yacht powered entirely by renewables like solar, wind and hydrogeneration. When motoring we use an electric drive to get in and out of marinas powered off a Lithium Battery Bank.
For it’s inaugural race, J-Bird III competed in the 2022 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race taking the two handed line honors victory, whilst Annika won the Jane Tate Memorial Trophy for first female skipper home.
J-Bird will continue to push the cause of Ocean Crusaders with a message of creating a cleaner way to go yachting.
Living at Rivergate Marina in the Brisbane River, J-Bird will next race in the 75th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race at Easter before the August running of the Brisbane to Hamilton Island Yacht Race, Airlie Beach Race Week and Magnetic Island Race Week. She is also available for corporate sponsors of Ocean Crusaders to enjoy an afternoon of sailing.
To follow our program visit www.Facebook.com/JBirdIII
CURRENT SUPPORTERS
Where are we now?
NB: J-Bird III will promote Ocean Crusaders, however is funded by Ian & Annika and sponsorships directly related to the yacht and it’s programs. No donations to Ocean Crusaders are being used to fund the yacht.