Marine engine specialist makes waves as it backs round-the-world record attempt

Team Britannia aims to beat the current world-record holder Pete Bethune’s time of 60 days 23 hours 49 minutes for the 23,000 mile voyage.

The attempt will be made in a specially designed 80ft powerboat called Excalibur, which is being built in Portsmouth, ahead of the world-record attempt in 2018.

Maktec Marine, which is based in Whitby, North Yorkshire, has been appointed by Team Britannia to provide technical support for its engine fuel and oil performance.

Mark Cornforth, Maktec Marine’s founder, said the vessel will be powered by a new eco-fuel called Hydro Diesel.

“Maktec has developed its engine expertise working on all kinds of vessels and engines around the world over the last 20 years,” said Mr Cornforth. “And we are absolutely delighted to be chosen as technical engine support and fuel oil performance advisers for this incredible record attempt, and longer term, as the distributor of Hydro Diesel.”

Mr Cornforth said the challenge reflected Maktec’s passion to make engines greener, less harmful and more energy efficient.

He added: “At Maktec we know the diesel industry at sea and on land has to find urgent solutions to become greener.”

Mr Cornforth said the hydro diesel will be put to the ultimate test powering the Excalibur’s 800HP engines in “relentless and complex sea and weather conditions”.

He added:: “The engines and the fuel will be under huge pressure and in support I will be crewing on the Pacific leg of the journey to determine Hydro Diesel’s performance and monitor oil condition.”

Team Britannia plans to launch its record bid from Europa Point in Gibraltar next year.