Geoff Holt

The First Quadriplegic Yachtsman to Sail Solo Around Great Britain

  • First Quadriplegic Yachtsman to Sail Unassisted Across the Atlantic
  • Recipient of the BBC South Sports Personality of the Year
  • YJA Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year

Discover Geoff Holt’s biography of published work below.

Walking on Water: A Voyage Around Britain & Through Life, book cover
Walking on Water: A Voyage Around Britain & Through Life

When Geoff Holt is booked for events, they are known to discuss the following speaking topics:

The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building a Business
Leadership
Motivation
Resilience
No Excuses: The Right Attitude Makes High Performance Possible
Overcoming Adversity & Facing a Challenge
Diversity & Inclusion

Geoff Holt is an internationally recognised motivational speaker and advocate for inclusivity. As a quadriplegic sailor, Geoff has broken barriers in sports and inspired countless individuals with his determination and resilience. Drawing from his extraordinary experiences on and off the water, he delivers captivating speeches that resonate with audiences of all backgrounds. Combining humour, insight, and powerful storytelling, Geoff’s talks challenge perceptions and empower individuals to overcome their own obstacles.

At the age of 18, Geoff’s life changed dramatically following a swimming accident that left him paralysed from the chest down. Undeterred, he pursued his passion for sailing, proving that limitations can be overcome with the right mindset. In 2007, he became the first quadriplegic yachtsman to sail solo around Great Britain, covering 1,500 miles and inspiring a generation of sailors. Three years later, in 2010, Geoff completed an unassisted 2,700-mile transatlantic crossing aboard the catamaran Impossible Dream, a feat that earned him the prestigious MBE for services to disabled sailing. His journey from adversity to accomplishment is at the heart of his talks, making him a compelling speaker for audiences seeking motivation and actionable insights.

More recently, Geoff has continued to achieve remarkable milestones while expanding his advocacy for inclusivity. In 2011, he founded Wetwheels, an organisation that provides accessible boating experiences for disabled individuals, which has since transformed thousands of lives. In 2024, he completed a 1,877-mile circumnavigation of the UK in a fully accessible power catamaran, raising significant funds and awareness for the Wetwheels Foundation. Geoff’s accolades include the Lifetime Achievement Award and Point of Light Award, highlighting his enduring impact both on and off the water.

Organisations hire Geoff not only for his incredible story but also for his ability to connect deeply with his audience. He inspires with a rare authenticity, challenging people to rethink what is possible in their own lives and organisations. Whether addressing corporate teams, sports groups, or educational institutions, Geoff’s message of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers leaves a lasting impression, making him a sought-after speaker across the globe.

Official Testimonials

Geoff Holt is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:

“Very many thanks indeed for your really excellent presentation yesterday. Glowing reports are even now rolling in with a lot of folk who come to our event every year saying it’s the best evening we’ve had for ages.  It was really good of you to give us such a brilliant talk with great slides.  I’m sure you could tell by the great ovation from the crowded theatre at the end of your talk.”

Sir Ranulph Fiennes

“My sincere thanks to Geoff for an incredible presentation at our event. His story is truly inspirational and really caught the imagination of the whole room. His drive, spirit and determination had the whole audience mesmerised for the whole session. The talk fitted in very well with the context of the day and please let Geoff know that the feedback was fantastic.”

M&S Money

“It was an excellent day and Geoff’s presentation was most definitely a highlight.  I looked around the room when he was presenting and there wasn’t one person who wasn’t transfixed and I know from speaking to delegates afterwards that many were not only holding back their emotions but incredibly inspired by his journey in life.  I’ve seen Geoff present twice now and would never tire of hearing from him – so humble yet humorous and so ordinary but incredible.”

CMG

“Thank you for delivering a fantastic talk. We have had some excellent feedback from dealers who have been using words such as “epic” and “inspirational” with regard to your talk, so I think we can safely say that it was very well received!”

Suzuki

To enquire about Geoff Holt for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@high-performance-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0203 0070 319.