The Raid is principally a small boat sailing/rowing expedition. The fleet consists of small craft supported by larger vessels and fast safety boats. Sailing craft must be seaworthy and capable - slow and steady is more suitable than a sprightly, thoroughbred day-racer. The ability to reef sails quickly is essential for when the inevitable squall comes through. Rowing boats have ranged from a 6-oar whale boat, several 4-oar St Ayles Skiffs to single-person expedition skiffs.

To be accepted for the Raid boats must be assessed to be suitable by the tn17 Raid Safety Committee. You will be required to carry some safety equipment - final details to be advised but the tn15 gear list accessible from the tn17 web site provides some guidance. If you can demonstrate your boat meets a recognised standard, such as one of the Yachting Australia categories for racing boats, this will assist the Safety Committee in their decision.

If the Safety Committee decides your craft is not suitable or your boating experience not sufficient to do the more exposed legs at the start you may be invited to join the tn17 fleet at Dover on Sunday 5^th February.