Few events in sailing need an introduction quite like The Ocean Race.

First launched in 1973 as the Whitbread Round the World Race, it has evolved from a pioneering test of endurance and seamanship into one of the world's most iconic offshore sailing competitions. Today, The Ocean Race is not only pushing the limits of human performance, but also using its global platform to champion healthier oceans through science, education and advocacy.

In this episode, Holly sits down with Lucy Hunt, Ocean Impact Director at The Ocean Race. Lucy leads the race's sustainability and impact agenda, helping ensure that one of the world's most recognised sporting events creates a positive legacy long after the finish line.

Together, they explore how sailing can become a catalyst for environmental change, the responsibility of major sporting events in protecting our oceans, and why collaboration, education and storytelling are essential if we are to leave the marine environment healthier for future generations.

Whether you're a sailor, ocean advocate or simply passionate about the future of our planet, this conversation offers an inspiring insight into how sport can help drive meaningful change.

What happens to boats when they reach the end of their life?

As thousands of vessels across Europe (and indeed, the world) face retirement each year, the marine industry is confronting an important question: how do we rethink waste, materials and the future of boat building?

In this episode, we’re joined by Igor Kluin, Co-founder and Designer, and Nienke van t' Klooster, Co-founder of VAAN Yachts, a Dutch boat-builder taking a different approach to yacht design through circular thinking, recycled materials and a commitment to reducing environmental impact.

We talk about the challenge of end-of-life boats, the opportunities that come with designing differently, and what it means to build sailing catamarans with sustainability at their core. From recycled aluminium to changing perceptions around luxury and performance, this conversation explores how innovation and environmental responsibility can work hand in hand.

There’s a quiet contradiction at the heart of modern sailing.

We head out onto the water because we love the ocean - its freedom, its beauty, its power. And yet, in the most routine moments, whether washing down a deck or cleaning a hull, we may be contributing to the very damage we care about.

Not through negligence, but through habit and through products labelled “marine safe” or “eco-friendly” without really questioning what that means.

Because the reality is this: many everyday cleaning practices in leisure boating could already be non-compliant and most of us sailors have no idea.

This all comes back to International Maritime Organisation and MARPOL, the global convention designed to prevent pollution from ships - not just major spills, but the small, cumulative impacts of daily life on the water.

And that raises an uncomfortable question: are we cleaning our boats…or polluting our oceans?

Tune in to hear host Holly Manvell speak with Sarah Wallbank, CEO of August Race, a MARPOL-aligned marine cleaning brand.