British adventurer James Ketchell has made history by becoming the first person to circumnavigate the globe by land, air, and sea, while simultaneously contributing to vital ocean science projects through The International SeaKeepers Society’s DISCOVERY Programme.
On June 13, 2026, British adventurer James Ketchell returned to Gosport, UK, aboard his sailing vessel Mindset, completing an extraordinary global challenge that has already seen him cycle around the world in 2013 and fly a gyrocopter around the globe in 2019. His latest achievement marks a significant milestone as the first individual to complete a circumnavigation by land, air, and sea while actively contributing to ocean science.
Ketchell’s recent endeavor involved an impressive 30,000-nautical-mile sailing journey that commenced in July 2025. His route spanned vibrant destinations including Lanzarote, Cape Verde, Brazil, Cape Town, Hobart, and Cape Horn, culminating in his return to the UK. Throughout this adventure, Ketchell seamlessly blended exploration with environmental stewardship, supporting several critical scientific initiatives aimed at enhancing our understanding of the world’s oceans.
Supporting Ocean Science Through SeaKeepers
As an Ambassador for the UK’s National Oceanography Centre (NOC), Ketchell leveraged his voyage to contribute to three significant marine research missions through the SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Programme. His scientific contributions were varied and impactful. He deployed an Argo float in the Indian Ocean, adding vital data to a global network of over 4,000 autonomous ocean-monitoring devices. These devices are crucial for collecting and transmitting real-time information utilized by researchers around the world.
Moreover, Ketchell gathered microplastic samples for a collaborative research project between NOC and The International SeaKeepers Society. This work is instrumental in helping scientists gain a clearer picture of marine pollution levels across the world’s oceans. Additionally, he contributed valuable bathymetric data to the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project, an ambitious international initiative dedicated to creating the first complete map of the ocean floor.
Gill Rodrigues, Director of International Relations at SeaKeepers, expressed admiration for Ketchell’s remarkable achievement:
“James has shown how adventure and science can sail side by side. We couldn’t be prouder to welcome him home.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Ketchell’s voyage also aimed to inspire young people around the globe. Throughout his expedition, he engaged with schools via live virtual link-ups, delivering educational content, worksheets, and interactive classroom sessions in various ports along his route. His commitment extended beyond scientific research; he also supported fundraising efforts for organizations focused on social issues, such as the Baton of Hope, which promotes suicide awareness and prevention, and Kindled Spirit, a charity aiding victims of human trafficking.
Reflecting on his remarkable accomplishment, Ketchell shared:
“I am extremely grateful to all my partners that have supported me over so many years and continue to do so for this challenge. After rowing oceans, climbing Everest, cycling, flying, and sailing around the world, I’m not sure what challenge is left on this planet.”
CharterWorld Proudly Supports SeaKeepers’ Mission
At CharterWorld, we proudly partner with The International SeaKeepers Society, supporting its mission to advance ocean conservation, scientific research, and marine education through the global yachting community. Projects like James Ketchell’s groundbreaking circumnavigation illustrate the unique role that vessels and ocean travelers play in collecting invaluable scientific data while raising awareness of the myriad challenges facing our oceans.
As SeaKeepers expands its global network of vessel owners, captains, and researchers, initiatives like Ketchell’s journey highlight the potential for collaboration among adventurers, scientists, and the yachting community. This teamwork is vital for driving positive change and ensuring a better future for our oceans.