British Couple Tragically Found Dead in Lifeboat During Atlantic Crossing

British Couple Tragically Found Dead in Lifeboat During Atlantic Crossing

4 minute read
Published: 7/22/2024

British-Canadian couple Brett Clibbery, 70, and Sarah Packwood, 60, were found dead in a lifeboat on Sable Island, Nova Scotia, after a failed attempt to sail across the Atlantic without fossil fuels.

'The Green Odyssey' was an ambitious eco-friendly voyage undertaken by British-Canadian couple Brett Clibbery, 70, and Sarah Packwood, 60, who set sail on June 11 from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to the Azores aboard their solar-powered yacht, SV Theros. Despite their careful planning and eco-conscious mission, their journey tragically ended in mystery when they were found lifeless on July 10, after being reported missing on June 18. The circumstances leading to their abandonment of the yacht remain unclear as investigations continue into their ill-fated endeavor.

Their bodies were discovered on Sable Island, known as 'the graveyard of the Atlantic' due to its treacherous conditions and over 350 recorded shipwrecks since 1583. The couple's yacht, the SV Theros, was powered by solar panels as part of their mission to sail across the Atlantic without using fossil fuels, which they named 'The Green Odyssey.' This innovative approach reflected their commitment to sustainability and reducing their environmental impact.

The couple began their journey on June 11, departing from Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia. Their intended destination was the Azores, an archipelago in the mid-Atlantic. However, they were reported missing just a week later on June 18. After an extensive search, their lifeless bodies were discovered nearly a month later, on July 10, in a lifeboat on Sable Island.

The reason why Brett and Sarah abandoned their yacht and took to the lifeboat remains unknown. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the sequence of events that led to this tragedy. The couple had been documenting their journey on their YouTube channel, Theros Adventures, where they shared their preparations and experiences during the trip.

James Clibbery, Brett’s son, confirmed the tragic news in a Facebook post. He expressed profound sadness over the loss and mentioned the lasting impact of their unexplained deaths on their loved ones. He also paid tribute to their adventurous spirit and dedication to living a life that aligned with their environmental values.

Formal identification of the deceased is yet to take place, but the confirmation from Brett's son has provided some closure to their identities. Sarah Packwood hailed from the UK, while Brett Clibbery was from Canada. The couple had an inspiring love story, having met in 2015 at a bus stop in London and subsequently marrying after overcoming various health challenges together.

Sable Island’s harsh and isolated environment underscores the gravity of the couple's ill-fated end. Stretching 27 miles long, the island's treacherous sandbars and unpredictable weather conditions have been a perilous site for many maritime ventures over the centuries.

The eco-friendly journey undertaken by Brett and Sarah was a testament to their belief in sustainable living and the potential of renewable energy sources. The SV Theros, equipped with solar panels, represented their dedication to sailing without leaving a carbon footprint. Their initiative was part of a broader trend among sailors and adventurers who aim to combine innovation with traditional seafaring methods to reduce environmental damage.

The community that followed their journey on 'Theros Adventures' has been left in shock and mourning. Many had admired the couple for their adventurous spirits and their commitment to raising awareness about sustainable travel. Their story resonated with individuals inspired by their efforts to undertake such a significant journey in an environmentally responsible manner.

While the investigation continues, maritime experts will scrutinize several factors that could have contributed to the couple's decision to leave the yacht. Potential elements include mechanical failure, adverse weather conditions, or health emergencies. Comprehensive reports and findings will be crucial in understanding the full scope of the calamity that befell Brett and Sarah.

In reflecting on this tragedy, it is essential to recognize the risks inherent in ocean voyages, particularly those undertaken with alternative power sources. These ventures require meticulous planning, thorough testing of equipment, and contingency plans for emergencies. The maritime community often learns valuable lessons from such incidents, which are used to improve safety and preparedness for future expeditions.

The tragic end of Brett Clibbery and Sarah Packwood on their 'Green Odyssey' stands as a stark reminder of the uncertainties of sea voyages. Their journey, characterized by a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and sailing, will be remembered by followers of their YouTube channel, Theros Adventures.