Triple amputee Craig Wood completes his mission to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean

Imagine spending 90 days at sea, entirely alone, crossing one of the largest oceans on Earth. Now imagine doing that as a triple amputee.

That's precisely what 33-year-old British veteran Craig Wood has accomplished. After losing both legs above the knee and his left arm below the elbow in a bomb attack in Afghanistan in 2009, Craig has spent years rebuilding his life. During rehabilitation, he discovered sailing – today he lives mainly on a boat with his family. Now, he has made history as the first triple amputee to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean.

Craig set off solo from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and arrived at his final destination in Hiroshima, Japan, navigating approximately 7,500 nautical miles (approximately 14,000 kilometres) aboard his 41-foot catamaran, Sirius II.

Weathering the Storm

Craig's journey was far from smooth. Along the way, he encountered torn sails, a broken rudder, engine failure, and frustrating stretches of calm in the doldrums — an equatorial zone known for its lack of wind and notorious challenges for sailors. Initially destined for Osaka, Craig had to reroute at the last moment due to engine issues.

"With only one working engine, I couldn't take the risk of calling into a busy harbour," he explained.

Despite these setbacks, Craig persevered. "I would be surprised if a boat could sail over 3,000 nautical miles without suffering any damage. I had a lot to do, but that's part of life on board," he stated.

Yet there were also moments of peace and beauty during the voyage.

"I've seen many rainbows, countless flying fish, and a Booby that made my boat its home and kept me company. This connection helped restore my faith in what I'm doing and helped me appreciate my capabilities out in the vast Pacific Ocean."

Adapting at Sea

Surviving a solo crossing was one challenge; doing it as a triple amputee, managing every task alone, was an entirely different feat. Craig relied on his prosthetics daily to maintain mobility and safety on board. He wore his Genium X3 knee joints by Ottobock, complemented by everyday prosthetic feet for his daily life on the deck. For rougher seas or confined spaces, he switched to Challenger Sport feet for better grip and stability.

"My Genium X3s give me the freedom to live day to day on the sea and enable me to enjoy a full life on and off the water. I can't wait to take my kids for a walk now that I am home," he remarked.

This journey wasn't just about reaching a destination; it was about pushing boundaries — physical, emotional, and personal. Craig's strength, problem-solving skills, and calm resilience embody what it means to live fully, even in the face of life-altering challenges.

Sailing With Purpose

Craig undertook this challenge to raise money for two organizations close to his heart: Blesma and Turn 2 Starboard, which support wounded veterans. Over the 90 days at sea, averaging 3.6 knots, Craig reflected on life, family, and purpose.

After everything he experienced on his journey, one moment stood out above all: receiving the news that he was going to become a father again.

He described it as the "emotional highlight of the journey."

For Craig, this wasn't just a sailing trip; it was proof — to himself and others — that limits are often imagined, not real.

If Craig's story inspires you, let us know by commenting below. To follow Craig and keep up with his upcoming adventures, you can find him on Instagram: @craigwoodsails