Gunnar Christensen is a seasoned sailor, yacht captain, and adventurer preparing to compete in the legendary 2026 Golden Globe Race — one of the world’s toughest solo, non-stop sailing challenges. With decades of offshore experience, multiple Atlantic crossings, and a background as an RNLI volunteer, Gunnar combines old-school seamanship with an extraordinary passion for life at sea. In this episode, we explore his journey, the mindset required for extreme endurance sailing, and what it takes to navigate the world alone using only traditional methods.

A big thank you to our sponsors YB Tracking - This wouldn't be possible without your amazing help!

In this episode of Oceans Unplugged, the roles are reversed as host Lee Gallacher takes the guest seat to share his extensive experience and career at sea. Drawing on years of service as a sailor, volunteer lifeboat crew member, harbour authority patrol coxswain, pilot launch coxswain, and coast guard officer, Lee provides a unique insight into the realities of working in the maritime world.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• The responsibilities and challenges of serving as a volunteer lifeboat crew member
• Emergency callouts and real-life rescue operations at sea
• The demands, risks, and realities of search and rescue work
• The high-risk environment of pilot transfers to large commercial vessels
• The critical role of harbour patrol operations and maritime safety
• Mental resilience and decision-making under pressure
• Career pathways and opportunities within the maritime sector
• First-hand accounts of near misses, major incidents, and unforgettable experiences on the water

Whether you have an interest in maritime operations, rescue services, seafaring careers, or the experiences of those who work in demanding environments at sea, this episode offers valuable insight into a world few people ever see firsthand.

A huge thank you to our core sponsor YB Tracking. None of this would be possible without your help and the service you provide to thousands of people every day.

🌊 Oceans Unplugged – Dee Caffari Special 🌊

In this episode of Oceans Unplugged, Lee Gallacher sits down with legendary ocean racer Dee Caffari to dive deep into life beyond the horizon.

From seven laps around the world to record-breaking multi-hull campaigns, Dee shares incredible stories of survival, speed, teamwork, and pushing human limits at sea. Together they discuss racing around the world in just 57 days, navigating Cape Horn, surviving brutal 10-metre waves in the Bay of Biscay, and what it’s like sailing at the edge of control aboard some of the fastest boats on the planet.

The conversation also explores the evolution of offshore sailing technology, the rise of women in elite sailing, life at Point Nemo. The most remote place on Earth and the mindset needed to overcome fear, whether offshore or in everyday life.

A raw, honest and inspiring conversation about adventure, resilience, leadership, and chasing the next challenge.

🎧 Hosted by Lee Gallacher
🌍 Powered by YB Tracking
⚓ Real stories. Unfiltered. In-depth.

A huge thank you to our core sponsor YB Tracking - None of this would be possible without your help and the service you provide to thousands of people every day.