The Dream of Three Friends: A Historic Journey to Antarctica on Water Bikes
In March 2024, three childhood friends—Josep Rubau, Lluís Balasch, and Jesús Prieto—made history. Their bold dream of reaching the Antarctic coast on water bikes became a reality in a pioneering expedition that combined human strength, innovative design, and environmental respect.
After more than six years of engineering work and a full year of preparation, the team overcame one of the planet’s most extreme environments. Riding water bikes designed by Rubau himself and supported by Red Shark Bikes, the trio achieved what had never been done before: navigating the icy coastal waters of Antarctica with zero-emission, human-powered technology.
Despite the harsh weather conditions and physical challenges, the expedition was a total success. With the guidance and expertise of renowned adventurer Antonio de la Rosa, who served as technical advisor, the mission reached all its goals—both personal and environmental.
Their journey, which began in Tierra del Fuego and continued across the treacherous Drake Passage, symbolized not only personal achievement but also a new model for sustainable exploration. The expedition captured global attention and is now the subject of an upcoming documentary film, highlighting the team’s determination, courage, and commitment to adventure with purpose.
More than just a sporting feat, the challenge was an inspiring story of friendship, resilience, and innovation, proving that ordinary people can do extraordinary things when driven by a dream.
Thank you, Antarctica, for the experience of a lifetime.
After 3 years, he finally has another dream in his hands: he achieves his third official world record and reaches land in Sabaudia.
On Thursday, June 12, 2025, in the late afternoon, Cristian Nardecchia arrived in Sabaudia after covering a total of 375 kilometers.
He reached the Kufra oasis at 6:30 PM, welcomed by the press—but above all, by friends and family.
After three long years of training and setbacks, Nardecchia got his revenge and brought home his third official world record, earned through sacrifice on the pedals—this time at sea with the Red Shark bike.
He departed from the port of Toga Bastia, in Corsica, on June 7. After a day of delays due to rough seas and poor physical condition, the crossing resumed quickly: a change of course, more miles, more days, and finally the arrival.
Starting from Toga Bastia in Corsica on June 7, he passed near the island of Pianosa, touched the island of Giglio, then Porto Santo Stefano, Civitavecchia, Ostia, Santa Marinella, Nettuno, and finally Sabaudia.
Nardecchia was awarded on June 11 by the official world record judges directly on the bike, the day after achieving the record, since the official breaking point occurred in Santa Marinella—where he even surpassed the distance of the previous record set by Schincaglia in 2003.
David Ventura Aparicio and Sandra López Mayandia, official world record judges from Spain, departed from Barcelona after closely following the entire journey and presented Nardecchia with a medal and a plaque on the boat, along with a quick photo session—before he immediately set off again to finish his route.
We are thrilled—congratulations CRISTIAN NARDECCHIA, you are undoubtedly a champion and thank you so much for this world record together!
Red Shark Challenge in Bilbao: An Unforgettable Experience
In July 2023, Bilbao became the stage for an incredible on-water challenge featuring our Red Shark Bikes. A group of passionate riders took on the adventure of covering 30 km along the Bilbao estuary, from Getxo to the heart of the city… and back!
Despite the rainy weather, the excitement never faded. The event was a great success, with strong participation and a warm welcome from the Basque Country community.
The route took participants through a stunning setting, combining nature with urban landscapes. One of the most memorable moments was the stop in front of the Guggenheim Museum, where a large crowd gathered to witness the water bikes in action.
The start and finish point was in Getxo, an ideal location to begin a day full of sport, nature, and excitement on the water.
It was a day marked by effort, adventure, and a true passion for outdoor sports—leaving a lasting impression on both participants and spectators alike.
Eskerrik asko, Bilbao and Getxo, for welcoming us with such energy and making us feel at home. We’ll be back!
