'The ship was sinking and we were on our own' – Cdr Tom Sharpe | The Sailing Podcast Episode 13

In this gripping episode, host Theo Stocker sits down with Tom Sharpe, a retired Royal Navy Commander, to recount one of the most harrowing maritime incidents in recent history.

While Tom's career spanned 27 years—commanding everything from fishery protection vessels to advanced Type 23 frigates—it was his time aboard the Navy's only icebreaker, HMS Endurance, that provided his ultimate test of leadership and resilience.

What’s in this episode:

• The Incident: How a routine maintenance task in the Chilean inland waterways led to 1,200 tonnes of water flooding the ship in just 30 minutes.
• Command Under Pressure: Tom explains the "Chain of Events" that leads to disaster and why a leader must step back from the "knees-on-the-deck" technical work to see the bigger picture.
• Survival in the Magellan Strait: The terrifying reality of drifting towards the rocks of "Desolation Island" in 60-knot winds with no propulsion, no power, and failing communication systems.
• Lessons for Every Sailor: Whether you're on a Royal Navy warship or a family yacht, the principles of drills, muscle memory, and "pre-programming" your responses are what save lives when the "lemons line up".

About Our Guest

Tom Sharpe is a retired Royal Navy Commander who now runs a strategic communications consultancy. He specialises in managing complex and contested situations for global organisations, applying the high-stakes leadership lessons learned at sea to the corporate world.

Sponsored by His Majesty’s Coast Guard

This episode is made possible by HM Coast Guard. Safety at sea starts with preparation. Whether it’s refreshing your navigation skills or conducting pre-season maintenance, don't leave it to chance.

Boost your skills and reduce the risk: Order your free waterproof boating safety checklist at hmcoastguard.uk/checklist.

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