Watkins, 46, left New Zealand more than 20 years ago and has since spent much of his life on the ocean, first in the navy and for the past 15 years as skipper of a French-based super yacht.
However, he has no rowing experience and is one of two novices in the otherwise experienced crew.
"I've been spending a lot of time on the rowing machine," he said.
Watkins had been wanting to row the Atlantic since he and a friend first saw the ocean race two years ago.
They planned to compete in a pairs race in December 2011 but had to pull out at the last minute because of a lack of sponsorship.
While considering a solo attempt Watkins heard about the Woodvale Challenge-organised record attempt and immediately signed up.
He knows the journey, in a lightweight rowing boat, without a support vessel and with supplies for only 30 days, has its risks.
"There's a healthy nervousness there," he admitted.
"I know what it can be like out there on the ocean. It's a scary thing."
However, he said he was really excited to get under way after poor weather delayed yesterday's scheduled start.
The crew is skippered by the UK's Simon Chalk, the youngest person to row across the Indian Ocean single-handedly.
It also includes an American ex-army officer and a one-legged French amputee.
Despite only meeting in Gran Canaria this week, Watkins is confident the group will handle the demands of rowing more than 100 miles a day in close proximity.
"They're a great bunch of people and we are all getting on well," he said. '
Watkins hopes to raise $30,000 for @Heart, a New Zealand charity for children with heart conditions.
- To follow the boat's progress during the next month go to www.titanrow.com.
