Sir Robin Knox-Johnston’s lifelong relationship with the sea began early. Educated at Berkhamsted School, he joined the Merchant Navy at the age of 17, serving as a deck officer with the British India Steam Navigation Company. His early years at sea gave him both the technical skills and seamanship that would later define his legendary status. 

In 1968, Knox-Johnston 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 faced enormous isolation, equipment failures, and brutal weather. After 312 days alone at sea, he returned to Falmouth on 22 April 1969, becoming the first person in history to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world. Of the nine competitors who set out, only Knox-Johnston finished. He donated his £5,000 prize money to the family of fellow competitor Donald Crowhurst, who had perished during the race.

This episode marks my 40th anniversary of being at sea, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate it then to talk with the man whose feat inspired me to not only take up sailing but eventually to go to sea myself. Enjoy the interview.

Come and Visit our Website

https://www.captainbarrysadler.com/

At Captain Barry Sadler Maritime Training & Consultancy we deliver industry-leading online courses, oral exam preparation, and professional resources for deck officers, cadets, and maritime professionals. Fully aligned with UK MCA standards, our training helps you build knowledge, confidence, and a successful career at sea.

Follow us

Linkedin

Instagram

X

Facebook