Wood arrived in Hiroshima on 24/6 to a warm welcome after almost three months at sea. He embarked on his unsupported journey from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
His voyage has been hailed as a remarkable feat for a person with disabilities by the international sailing community and media.
In 2009, Wood joined the British Army and was injured on patrol in Sangin, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He underwent more than 20 surgeries and eight months of rehabilitation.
During his recovery, Wood took sailing courses organized by Blesma, The Limbless Veterans, and Turn to Starboard. His father also encouraged him to return to his childhood passion for sailing to overcome his insecurities.
"Sailing makes me forget I'm disabled," Wood said. He gradually regained his skills and confidence, and began dreaming of a solo Pacific crossing.
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Craig Wood on his Pacific voyage. Photo: Independent |
Craig Wood on his Pacific voyage. Photo: Independent
In late 2/2025, he left Puerto Vallarta to the cheers of friends, family, and his support team.
The 12-meter aluminum boat, Sirius II, was specially modified by Wood and a technical team over several months. They installed rails, electric winches, and adapted the living space for one-handed operation. Throughout the journey, Wood handled all challenges, from storms to equipment failures.
Mid-ocean, Wood faced waves as high as two-story buildings. He narrowly avoided a submerged reef and once climbed the mast in a storm to replace a torn sail.
"The biggest challenge wasn't the weather or technical issues, but missing my wife and children," he said.
In calm weather, Wood rested, listened to music, exercised, cooked, and checked equipment. But most of the time, he remained vigilant, constantly monitoring the weather and steering system.
Beyond the crossing, Wood aimed to raise awareness of the abilities of people with disabilities and funds for charities. By the time he reached Hiroshima, donations had exceeded 60,000 USD.
Sociologist Alan Din Wai-bun, a lecturer at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said Wood's journey was truly inspirational. He noted that with societal support, people with disabilities can achieve extraordinary things.
Wood's voyage garnered widespread attention, with media outlets in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia providing regular updates. Upon arriving in Hiroshima, an emotional Wood embraced his wife, two children, and other family members who had traveled from the United Kingdom.
"My disability couldn't stop me," he said.
Ngoc Ngan (Independent)
