The South African adventurer opens up about risk, resilience and why making an impact matters more than breaking records.
Cape Town, South Africa (03 June 2026) – For most people, sailing thousands of kilometres across the Pacific Ocean alone on a small catamaran sounds like a crazy idea.
For Chris Bertish, it’s simply another opportunity to test what’s possible and to make a difference while doing it.
The South African ocean adventurer is preparing for another attempt at a world-first expedition after being forced to abandon a previous Pacific crossing due to safety concerns. But if you’re expecting Chris to view that decision as a failure, you’d be mistaken.
“There are moments where turning back becomes the bravest decision of all.”
Chris had hoped to become the first person to sail solo and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean on a modified catamaran. However, after identifying several critical issues early in the journey, he made the difficult call to return before reaching a point where rescue would become virtually impossible.
“Once you’re more than 150 miles offshore, the ability to return becomes non-existent,” he said. “You’ve got to make the right decisions at the right time.”
It’s a philosophy that has defined his career.
While many people view him as a fearless adventurer, Chris sees himself differently.
“A risk taker is somebody who does all the planning and testing, realises the risk is too high, and still goes ahead,” he said. “A risk technician looks at the data and says, ‘No, this isn’t safe,’ and changes the plan.”
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Despite his remarkable achievements, Chris insists fear is still part of the process.
“I’m a human being, so I have fear. It’s just about how you manage it.”
For him, adventure has never been about chasing records alone. Every expedition is tied to a bigger purpose.
This latest challenge aims to raise funds for education and environmental projects, including building a classroom in northern Kenya and supporting conservation initiatives.
“Impact is everything. How you show up in the world, how you’re a role model for others and how you help lift up other people in life, that’s all that matters.”
It is a message he hopes extends beyond extreme adventure.
Chris believes everyone can benefit from stepping outside their comfort zone, whether that’s crossing an ocean or simply trying something new.
“We learn the most about ourselves when we push ourselves beyond our comfort zone because that’s where the magic happens.”
For now, Chris and his team continue to assess the safest route for the expedition, with no intention of pushing forward unless the risks are acceptable.
The goal is to come home, inspire others and create a lasting impact along the way.
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