Ever since being pushed out in a dinghy from a young age Andy has spent most of his time in, on or around water.  At 16 years of age Andy competed in the Tall Ships Race and throughout his time at University he crewed at any opportunity.  Whilst studying for his degree in Biological Sciences at Plymouth University, Andy was a member of the university sailing teams and taught windsurfing. 

His studies led him to an MSc in Oceanography from the National Oceanography Centre at Southampton University before his professional sailing career really took off.

The 70,000 Nautical Miles that Andy has sailed has seen him work alongside Mike Golding on board the Challenge 67, working as First Mate and then skippering Farr 65’s and a stint as a freelance skipper completing offshore biological / chemical surveys and inshore research programmes. 

Latterly Andy worked alongside Alex Thomson in the build up to the Velux 5 Oceans which included working on physical and sleep depravation training with Alex in preparation for the race.

Before joining Artemis Ocean Racing, Andy was taken on as skipper / boat captain of Hugo Boss II, Volvo 60 responsible for all aspects of the project from acquisition of the boat through to a 10 week re-fit in preparation for a world tour.

Andy brings a strong personality and a competitive streak to Artemis Ocean Racing, locking horns at any opportunity with his older brother Graham ‘Gringo’ Tourell.