Dame Ellen MacArthur

Having achieved the extraordinary feat of sailing solo, non-stop, around the globe, Dame Ellen MacArthur has become a beacon of inspiration. Her remarkable journey and groundbreaking achievements now fuel her passion for empowering others as a sought-after speaker. A trailblazer in peak performance, an advocate for global change, and an inspiring female leader, she captivates audiences with her story of resilience and determination. Ellen’s love of the sea began at just eight years old, and by the age of 11, she had saved her pocket money to buy her first dinghy. Her determination only grew; by 18, she owned the 21-foot yacht Idune, in which she circumnavigated the UK. Recognised early for her talent, she was named British Young Sailor of the Year and achieved the Yachtmaster Offshore Qualification, becoming the youngest ever to do so.

At just 24, Ellen competed in the Vendée Globe, the gruelling single-handed, non-stop yacht race around the world. During her incredible 94-day journey, she secured second place, becoming the youngest competitor to ever complete the race. In 2005, she broke yet another record, completing her solo circumnavigation of the globe in just 71 days, 14 hours, and 18 minutes—a feat that made her the fastest solo sailor to do so at the time. This 27,354-mile voyage cemented her reputation as a global icon of endurance and precision.

Beyond her sailing triumphs, Dame Ellen has channelled her experiences into meaningful initiatives. She authored two autobiographies, Taking on the World and Full Circle and Race Against Time, and in 2003, she founded the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust. This charity uses sailing to help young people with cancer rebuild their confidence and communication skills. Over 1,500 young individuals have benefited from its programmes. In 2010, Ellen established the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which promotes the transition to a circular economy—creating a sustainable framework for businesses, schools, and governments. Her work has been widely recognised, earning her numerous accolades, including an MBE and a Damehood.

Dame Ellen MacArthur’s extraordinary achievements and her passion for inspiring change make her an ideal choice for events such as corporate gatherings or team-building workshops. Her compelling stories of leadership, risk management, and sustainability inspire audiences to embrace transformation and overcome challenges. She is now available for hire through the Inspirational Leadership Speakers Agency, ready to motivate and empower your audience.