Sailing Around the UK for Parkinson’s: Richard’s Story

This May, Richard Brocklesby is embarking on an extraordinary journey, a full circumnavigation of the UK by yacht, all in aid of raising funds and awareness for Parkinson’s UK.

This is no ordinary sailing challenge. Covering around 2,100 nautical miles, navigating complex tides, and facing the ever-changing conditions of the British coastline, Richard’s journey will test both his seamanship and resilience, all for a cause that means a great deal to him.

We’re proud to be supporting Richard as he prepares for this ambitious undertaking and following his progress every step of the way.

About Richard

Richard is a passionate sailor whose journey into life on the water began unexpectedly as a teenager, when a chance opportunity introduced him to sailing, something that would go on to shape his life. After learning to sail at 14 thanks to a school friend, this led to owning a boat, getting qualified, and becoming a sailing instructor. Now, based in Plymouth, he has turned that lifelong passion into a powerful purpose. After restoring his own boat, Richard has set himself an extraordinary challenge: to sail solo around the UK.

Inspired by the recent Parkinson’s diagnosis of a loved one, along with personal connections to the condition, he is using this adventure to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s UK.

“The support from across the marine community has just been incredible.”

Supporting ambitions sailors with our specialist insurance

Taking on a challenge like this requires more than preparation on the water, it also means having the right insurance in place.

Richard approached the Haven Knox‑Johnston Specialist team to see if his boat and journey could be backed by a policy tailored to the unique demands of long-distance sailing. With extended time at sea, varied cruising areas, and the unpredictable nature of UK waters, standard cover doesn’t always reflect the realities of a voyage like this.

Our Specialist team works closely with boat owners to understand their plans, experience, and ambitions, whether that’s coastal cruising, offshore passages, or major challenges like this, and helps arrange cover that reflects those needs.

For sailors considering their own adventures, having the right insurance in place is an important part of preparation. It provides confidence to focus on the journey ahead.

“Make sure you’ve got safety covered, understand the tides, and always have a backup plan.”