Geoff Holt’s Remarkable 1,445-Mile Atlantic Voyage: Triumph of a Paralyzed Sailor

Geoff Holt MBE Podcast

SEASON 1 EPISODE 7 – SUMMARY

In this podcast conversation, Chris Watson sits down with Geoff Holt.

Geoff Holt, MBE, shares his remarkable journey as a disabled sailor and adventurer.

From his early passion for sailing to his life-changing accident that left him paralyzed, Holt’s love for the sea never wavered.

Geoff Holt Is Guest on Adventure Diaries Podcast Episode 7
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He recounts his first sailing experiences, his career in the yachting industry, and his decision to get back on the water after his accident. Geoff Holt’s accomplishments include sailing solo around Britain and crossing the Atlantic Ocean.


He emphasizes the importance of adaptability and planning in overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
In this conversation, Geoff Holt and Chris Watson discuss Geoff’s sailing adventures and his work with Wet Wheels, a foundation that provides accessible boating experiences for disabled individuals.


Geoff shares his experiences sailing around Britain and crossing the Atlantic Ocean, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.

Geoff Holt also talks about the recognition he has received for his sailing achievements and his commitment to using his platform to inspire and support disabled people.

Geoff discusses the founding and expansion of Wet Wheels, emphasizing the importance of getting disabled individuals on the water and the unique experiences they can have.

He encourages listeners to get out and experience the beauty of the water and to pay it forward by supporting causes that make a positive impact.

Episode Takeaways

  • Passion for sailing can be a lifelong pursuit, even in the face of disability.
  • Adaptability and planning are key to overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
  • Sailing provides a sense of freedom and connection with nature.
  • The support and camaraderie of a team are crucial in undertaking ambitious adventures.
  • Exploring blue spaces, such as the ocean, can have a positive impact on mental well-being. Geoff Holt’s sailing adventures include sailing around Britain and crossing the Atlantic Ocean, showcasing his determination and love for the water.
  • His work with Wet Wheels has provided accessible boating experiences for disabled individuals, allowing them to enjoy the beauty and freedom of the water.
  • Geoff emphasizes the importance of getting disabled people on the water and using his platform to inspire and support them.
  • Geoff Holt encourages listeners to experience the joy of being on the water and to support causes that make a positive impact.

Call To Adventure

Get yourself near some Blue Space.

Each of us have our own different, what we want to achieve out of life, but I would strongly encourage, particularly those that haven’t experienced it before, to somehow get on or by the water.

Now, even if it means going to sit on the beach on your own and throw pebbles in the sea, if you’re lucky enough to get on a boat, or, you know, local ferry across the river or something, just look at the world differently.

Be inspired in awe of Mother Nature.

And if that inspires you to do it again more often, and to a greater extent, then that’s brilliant.

But get yourself near some blue space

Pay It Forward

There’s no question that I have got more fun and enjoyment and fulfilment out of my life for the things that I have done and not charged for and not even considered charging for, that I’ve been involved with, you know, and helping often those less fortunate.

That seems a mad thing for me to say, you know, someone who paralyzed my chest down, but trust me, there are a lot of profoundly disabled, profoundly complex disabilities who, you know, I am very lucky to have the movement and the independence I have.


So I take great pleasure in trying to do a little bit.

Give back and so not necessarily asking anyone to support Wet Wheels directly you know we always need your money but sometimes it’s more than that it’s about going to see you can just go on the website and take a look and think actually do you know what I’ve got a friend or relative with a disabled child who might benefit from that you’ve done your bit you know we all know don’t we when we’ve done something during the day it could be you know.

I’m not saying help little ladies across the road all the time or even if we’re allowed to do that anymore..

When you do something good, and you don’t need to come back and tell everyone about it, but you’ve just done something out of the ordinary that day, you know, that night you pull the quilt up and you just think, I did something good today, and it just gives you that warm fuzzy feeling.

And the more we can all do that, I think the better the world will be.

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More Season 1 Episodes

Jan Bakker Podcast Episode 6

Terry Virts Podcast Episode 8

Geoff Holt: A Journey of Resilience and Adventure on the Water

Sailing is more than just a sport or hobby; for many, it’s a profound expression of freedom and adventure. But for Geoff Holt, it represents a lifeline of hope, resilience, and unparalleled achievement. Holt, a celebrated figure in the sailing world, has not only overcome unimaginable challenges but has also transformed them into a source of inspiration for countless others.

Geoff’s life took a dramatic turn at the age of 18 when a diving accident left him paralyzed from the chest down. While many might see such an injury as a full stop, for Geoff, it was merely a comma in his life’s story. This transformative event set him on a path not just to sail again, but to conquer waters that many able-bodied sailors would hesitate to navigate.

From Injury to Inspirational Yachtsman

Geoff’s early days were spent near the waters of Portsmouth and Southampton, where he developed a keen interest in sailing. Despite his family’s lack of nautical heritage, his stepfather introduced him to the joys of sailing, a passion that would shape the course of his life. However, after his accident, sailing seemed like a distant dream.

Undeterred by his physical limitations, Geoff redefined what it means to be a sailor. His journey back into sailing began with the “Impossible Dream,” a specially designed dinghy that accommodated his disability. The moment he felt the sea breeze and the tug of the sail once more, he knew he had rediscovered his passion—a moment of exhilaration and profound liberation.

Achievements that Inspire

Geoff Holt became the first quadriplegic to sail solo around Great Britain, a feat he describes as his “Personal Everest.” This journey was not just about setting records but about proving to himself and the world that the human spirit is boundless. His adventures continued as he crossed the Atlantic Ocean, further solidifying his reputation as an indomitable spirit in the face of adversity.

His accolades, including being named “Yachtsman of the Year,” resonate with a deeper message of perseverance and courage. Geoff’s story is a testament to the fact that physical limitations are not barriers to achieving monumental goals—they are merely challenges to be navigated.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Beyond his sailing achievements, Geoff is a fervent advocate for accessibility in sailing. His initiative, Wet Wheels, provides the disabled community with the opportunity to experience sailing firsthand, empowering them through active participation and engagement with the sea. This initiative not only opens up new horizons for participants but also challenges societal perceptions about disability.

Conclusion: The Unstoppable Spirit of Geoff Holt

Geoff Holt’s life and career are shining examples of how adversity can fuel a quest for achievement and meaning. His story encourages us all to look beyond our limitations and to pursue our passions with vigor and determination. Whether you are a sailor, an adventurer, or someone facing your own personal challenges, Geoff’s journey underscores the power of resilience and the unyielding human spirit.

To explore more about Geoff Holt’s adventures and his advocacy work, visit his official website or follow the Wet Wheels foundation to see how they are making the joys of sailing accessible to all.