When world-record adventurer Chris Bertish set out alone across the Atlantic Ocean, there was no rescue crew waiting nearby, no support vessel and no opportunity to step away when conditions became overwhelming. For 93 days, every decision mattered.
Now, the internationally acclaimed big-wave surfer and adventurer is bringing the lessons from one of the world’s most remarkable endurance achievements to Cape Town, offering business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals a rare opportunity to learn how resilience, preparation and decisive leadership can make the difference between success and failure.
On Wednesday, 26 August 2026, Workshop17 Watershed at the V&A Waterfront will host “Maverick Waves to Atlantic Crossings”, a live Workshop Wednesday conversation exploring how the mindset required to survive one of the planet’s toughest challenges can help people navigate uncertainty in business and life.
From the Atlantic Ocean to the Boardroom
Chris Bertish’s story is extraordinary by any measure.
His 7,500km solo, unsupported and unassisted stand-up paddleboard crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, completed over 93 days, demanded relentless planning, physical endurance and mental resilience.
With no support crew and no margin for error, every decision carried real consequences.
Rather than simply sharing stories of adventure, Bertish will take audiences behind the scenes of the expedition, revealing the preparation, research, contingency planning and disciplined decision-making that allowed him to complete one of the most demanding ocean crossings ever attempted.
Lessons That Go Beyond Sport
Although Bertish’s achievements were forged in some of the world’s most extreme environments, the principles behind them extend far beyond adventure.
Leadership under pressure, calculated risk-taking, adaptability, preparation and resilience are qualities equally valuable to business executives, entrepreneurs, managers and anyone pursuing ambitious personal or professional goals.
The conversation will explore questions many leaders face every day:
- How do you prepare for situations you cannot control?
- How do you continue making sound decisions under sustained pressure?
- How do you adapt when plans change without losing sight of your destination?
According to Penelope Meniere, Marketing Manager at Workshop17, these are lessons with practical relevance.
“Chris had to study the risks, prepare for multiple scenarios and understand exactly how he would respond when conditions changed. Those principles have direct relevance for people making difficult decisions in business and life.”
Beyond the Highlight Reel
Bertish has built an international reputation through achievements few people would willingly attempt.
From conquering giant waves to winning the prestigious Mavericks big-wave surfing competition and completing record-setting ocean expeditions, his career has consistently tested the limits of human endurance.
At Workshop Wednesday, however, the focus shifts away from the headline moments.
Instead, attendees will gain insight into what happens long before success is visible—the disciplined preparation, self-management, contingency planning and consistent daily choices that make extraordinary achievements possible.
Celebrating One Year of Workshop Wednesday
The August event also marks an important milestone for Workshop Wednesday, which celebrates its first anniversary this year.
The monthly conversation series began at Workshop17 Ballito following a chance discussion with filmmaker Calvin Thompson, eventually evolving into an intimate platform where accomplished individuals share practical insights drawn from their personal experiences.
Over the past year, audiences have heard from:
- Greg Lomas, director of Chasing the Sun, discussing the human stories behind one of South Africa’s most celebrated rugby documentaries.
- Angela Yeung, who shared her experiences climbing Mount Everest.
- Rudger van Wyk, winemaker at Doolhof, exploring the craft and business of wine.
Each session has been hosted by Craig Leppan, with the series now expanding to Workshop17 venues in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Rather than traditional keynote presentations, Workshop Wednesday encourages open conversations where guests can ask questions, exchange ideas and leave with practical lessons they can apply in their own careers and lives.
Every Ticket Supports a Greater Purpose
The evening also carries a charitable impact beyond the event itself.
All proceeds from ticket sales will support projects undertaken by the Chris Bertish Foundation, including building a sustainable circular-economy classroom for children in Northern Kenya and contributing to global reforestation initiatives through the planting of thousands of trees.
As Meniere explains, every attendee becomes part of that broader mission.
A single ticket not only provides access to Bertish’s remarkable story but also contributes to education and environmental sustainability.
Event Details
Event: Workshop Wednesday – Maverick Waves to Atlantic Crossings with Chris Bertish
Date: Wednesday, 26 August 2026
Time: 17:00 – 19:00
Venue: Seminar Room, Workshop17 Watershed, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Tickets:
- Workshop17 Members: R50
- Non-members: R100
Wine and snacks will be served, while seating is limited.
All ticket proceeds will support projects undertaken by the Chris Bertish Foundation.
