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Record-setting sailor & speaker

Craig Wood

Build unstoppable resilience with Craig Wood, speaker and record-setting triple amputee sailor. Craig works with organisations to develop leadership under pressure, overcome adversity, and challenge disability assumptions, delivering insights from his world-first Pacific Ocean crossing achievement.
Craig Wood

Book Craig

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Starting from

£2k–5k

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loading@getapeptalk.com

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+44 203 835 2929

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Craig Wood's biography

At a glance

  • First triple amputee to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean
  • Military veteran with over 20,000 nautical miles at sea
  • Double Guiness World Record holder
Craig Wood is a record-setting sailor and British Army veteran known for redefining what is possible after a life-changing injury. His achievements at sea and his grounded, open approach to resilience have made him a compelling voice on overcoming adversity, navigating change, and challenging assumptions about disability. At the age of 18, Craig lost both legs and a hand in an IED explosion while stationed in Afghanistan. He spent years rebuilding his physical strength, confidence, and identity. Sailing became his outlet and, ultimately, his purpose. He has since covered more than 20,000 nautical miles, captaining a custom-built aluminium catamaran adapted for one-arm handling. In 2025, Craig became the first triple amputee to complete a solo, non-stop, unsupported crossing of the Pacific Ocean. This world-first achievement followed earlier recognition as Yorkshire Man of the Year and Inspirational Sailor of the Year from the Young Cruisers Association. Craig shares his experiences with audiences ranging from corporate teams to veteran organisations, schools, and public events. His work focuses on resilience, mindset, and the practical skills needed to keep moving through uncertainty. He also supports fellow veterans through sailing-based programmes, and has introduced many people to the therapeutic potential of being on the water. Craig’s presentations offer direct, lived insight into perseverance, problem-solving, and leadership under pressure. Audiences gain a clearer understanding of how inner strength is built through action, not theory, and how reframing limitations can open new paths forward for individuals and teams. Book Craig to bring a perspective shaped by experience, honesty, and a determination to help others navigate their own challenges.

Craig's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Redefining Limits: Lessons In Resilience & Adaptability
Craig Wood charts a journey that begins with an IED blast on his first deployment and leads to a world-first solo sailing attempt across the Pacific. Craig shows how determination, adaptability, and a refusal to be limited by circumstance can transform even the hardest setbacks. His open, live-free style encourages audiences to challenge assumptions, rethink capability, and confront obstacles with greater confidence. Participants gain practical insight into resilience, perspective, and sustained commitment under pressure.

Why we recommend booking Craig

Book Craig Wood to inspire your team with real-world lessons on resilience, leadership, and overcoming adversity, drawn from his record-setting achievements as a sailor and veteran. Bring Craig in to help your group discover new ways to navigate change and unlock their full potential.

Testimonials

Craig's story is truly inspirational. He doesn't dwell on what he's lost, but focuses on what he can achieve. He embodies the spirit of adaptability, constantly innovating and finding solutions to the hurdles life throws his way. Craig has embraced difficult challenges, found love, and continues to seek adventure and, whilst listening to him speak, you come to realise that disability is often just a matter of perspective. His experiences serve as a reminder that limitations are often self-imposed and that with determination, adaptation, and the right mindset, anything is possible. Craig's journey is a powerful lesson in resilience, reminding us all to embrace challenge and to never underestimate the power of the human spirit.

Maj Gen Lamont Kirkland CBE

CEO

Veteran Craig Wood’s story is a powerful testament to grit, courage, and resilience. His story is nothing short of remarkable and is inspiring to all who hear it. With his candour, humour, and captivating storytelling, Craig has an incredible ability to connect with others, while showcasing his remarkable ability to thrive.

Sally Terry

CEO, Turn To Starboard

Featured Projects

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frequently asked questions

Something not covered here?

What topics does Craig Wood specialise in?
Craig Wood specialises in discussing resilience, adaptability, mindset and more.
What is Craig Wood's speaking style like?
Previous bookers say Craig Wood connects well with audiences and speaks with clarity, confidence, and ease.
How can I book Craig Wood for my next event?
Email craig.wood@getapeptalk.com or call us on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience. As speaker agents, PepTalk can secure Craig Wood for commercial and corporate events, conference keynotes, leadership talks, celebrity brand endorsements & partnerships, personal appearances, and motivational speaking engagements. We can assist with enquiries about Craig Wood's speaking fees, availability, and booking process for private business functions, industry conferences, and team events. Please note, for media interviews, autographs, charity appearances, or personal matters, we recommend contacting Craig Wood directly.
Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. We work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, feel free to email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

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Yes. PepTalk books commercial podcast guests every week of the year. A high-profile voice can boost your podcast's reach and deliver ideas to your audience at scale. Fees typically start from £1,200 / $1,500, depending on the expert. Our network includes bestselling authors, industry leaders, and cultural figures who have appeared on leading global podcasts — and many host their own. Whether you want bold insights, candid stories, or deep expertise, we'll help you find the right guest to elevate your show. Contact us today to book your next podcast guest.

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Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

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