Oceans Unplugged
This is a podcast about the sea and the people who answer its call.
Hosted by a mariner with over 30 years of experience across search and rescue, yacht racing, coastguard, and maritime enforcement, this show dives deep into the real stories of life at sea.
These are not polished tales or manufactured drama. They’re honest, human conversations with sailors, lifeboat crews, adventurers, and everyday people who’ve lived extraordinary moments on the water.
Stories of resilience, humour, loss, camaraderie, and the quiet truths the ocean teaches, told by someone who understands the weight of it.
Each episode is a slow-burn conversation, less interview, more shared watch.
Alongside these deep dives, you’ll hear personal reflections, listener stories, and glimpses into the bond between people and the vessels they trust with their lives.
Whether you’ve spent your life at sea or never left shore, this is a place to listen, reflect, and connect.
Real stories. Told with heart. The kind you carry with you.
Oceans Unplugged
Episode 01 - From Coast Guard to Racing Against Royalty: A Sailor's Remarkable Journey
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
Discover the extraordinary life of a professional sailor whose adventures span coast guard rescues, yacht deliveries, racing against the King of Spain, and navigating the highs and lows of the ocean.
This episode dives into the raw stories behind the maritime profession and the lessons learned along the way.
A huge thank you to our core sponsor YB Tracking - None of this would be possible without your help and the service you provide to thousands of people every day.
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.facebook.com/oceansunplugged/
https://www.instagram.com/oceansunpluggedpodcast/
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to the host and episode overview
00:30 - Exploring the host's background and unique sailing journey
01:29 - Growing up without a traditional maritime family background
02:53 - Transition from surfing and South African roots to competitive sailing
03:51 - The role and significance of yacht delivery trips
05:17 - How qualification and experience in offshore sailing evolved
06:16 - Funny and intense delivery stories from the Caribbean and Mediterranean
07:42 - Risks and safety considerations in yacht deliveries
09:09 - Best experiences from different sailing regions
10:34 - Tech focus: The YB3 tracker and its applications in racing and safety
11:57 - Demonstration of the tracking device and its operational details
13:28 - The role of safety and tracking devices in rescue situations
15:24 - Sharing stories of capsizing and rescue, including the story of Tony Bullenmol
16:50 - The challenge of round-the-world racing against prevailing currents
17:17 - Details of the BT Global Challenge and its tough routes
18:42 - Personal decisions around racing, family, and life lessons
20:10 - Insights into the resilience of the sailor’s father and overcoming personal setbacks
21:11 - Achievements in competitive sailing, including sailing with top sailors and the Admiral’s Cup
22:08 - Reflecting on racing in the Admiral’s Cup and racing against international teams
23:35 - Transition into working as a harbor master, pilot, and in the superyacht industry
24:34 - The impact of COVID on maritime work and the sailor’s adaptation
25:04 - Managing health challenges and the physical toll of sailing
26:01 - A shift to coast guard work, rescue missions, and the emotional side of maritime safety
27:29 - How tracking technology supports crisis management at sea
28:28 - Future projects, collaborations, and engaging with the sailing community
29:28 - Preview of upcoming guests and topics
30:22 - Closing remarks and call for audience engagement