[COMPLETED] MASSIVE thank you to EVERYONE! ❤️

Our travel vehicle needs a new engine. Our Next Meridian Expedition is facing a hard stop. Last week, on Friday the 3rd May, our Land Rover Defender broke down just as we were exiting Geraldton, Western Australia.

We are Nick & Mathilde, together with our Land Rover Defender “Albatross”, we embarked on a world tour expedition in 2022. Our plan involves crossing all 7 continents and 88 countries, focusing on the roads less traveled, meeting locals, making new friends and exploring cultures & traditions. After covering 87,000km across Europe, North America, South America, Antarctica, and making it to Australia, the fifth continent on our expedition, the worst that could happen mechanically: happened...

We broke down on our way to northern Australia. With the kind help of mechanics specialised in Defenders, we ran several tests over three days. The result was clear: we have to replace the engine.

We've spent the last few days looking for the most cost-effective ways to get back on the road. Our focus is ensuring a reliable engine swap that will get us through the rest of our expedition that still needs to cover Australia, Asia and Africa.

We've created this GoFundMe to appeal to friends, supporters, fellow explorers and yourself who may be able to help us continue our mission. Any contribution, no matter the amount, can make a big difference.

We want to be transparent about how the funds will be used. An engine replacement of this magnitude is off our normal budget and puts in question the completion of our expedition. The total cost of the engine swap is 9000 EUR. Here is the breakdown (no pun intended):

- 2.2 liters Ford engine long from South Africa (new): 4010 EUR

- 4 genuine injectors: 1220 EUR

- Gaskets and spare parts for engine reinstallation: 980 EUR

- Freight cost: 400 EUR

- Michael the Mechanic’s labor (Michael kindly agreed to reduce his hourly fee in exchange for Nick's help and a few photos & videos from Mathilde): 2200 EUR

- Oils & Coolant: 180 EUR

We have been taking care of all the part sourcing, freight organisation and some of the mechanical work to reduce to the maximum the cost of this engine swap and to make sure all the money collected is used to its highest value.

In return for your support, we promise to continue sharing the wonders and insights we discover along our journey, providing you with a glimpse into the world's hidden gems.

If you're still reading, thank you for your interest and the consideration of supporting us during this challenging time. Your support means the world to us, and we are incredibly grateful for any help you can provide. Together, we can continue this journey, uncover the wonders of our planet, and share them with the world.

Thank you for being a part of our adventure!

Nick & Mathilde