Sir Robin Knox Johnson Sailing Legend

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston — The Man Who Sailed Alone Around the World

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston’s lifelong relationship with the sea began early. Educated at Berkhamsted School, he joined the Merchant Navy at just 17, serving as a deck officer with the British India Steam Navigation Company.

In 1968, he entered the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race — the first ever non-stop, single-handed, round-the-world yacht race. Sailing his 32-foot ketch Suhaili, built by hand in India, he endured isolation, equipment failures, and brutal weather for 312 days at sea. When he returned to Falmouth on 22 April 1969, he became the first person in history to sail solo and non-stop around the world. Of the nine who started, only one finished — Sir Robin. In a gesture of deep integrity, he donated his prize money to the family of fellow sailor Donald Crowhurst.

🎙️ This conversation is particularly special to me. It marks 40 years since I first went to sea, and there’s no one I’d rather celebrate that milestone with than the man whose courage and seamanship inspired my own journey.

Tune in to hear us discuss life at sea, resilience, and the enduring spirit of adventure that continues to define maritime professionals today.