Rowing Into the Impossible: Erden Eruc’s 5-Year Journey Around the World

What makes someone believe they can row across oceans, cycle across continents, and spend more than five years completing the first solo human-powered circumnavigation of the planet?

In this episode of Why’d You Think You Could Do That?, Sam Penny sits down with Erden Eruc—adventurer, mountaineer, ocean rower, and Guinness World Record holder. Erden’s story is one of resilience, tragedy, and extraordinary determination.

From the death of his climbing partner that pushed him to honour a promise, to 312 days alone at sea battling rogue waves and isolation, Erden’s life is proof that ordinary people can achieve the impossible when they refuse to quit.

You’ll discover:

• 🌍 The pivotal moment that sparked Erden’s five-year human-powered circumnavigation.
• 🚣 What it feels like to row across three oceans—alone.
• 💡 How he managed fear, boredom, and doubt on the open water.
• 🏔 Why discipline and routine are the keys to survival and success.
• ⛵ His preparation for the upcoming 2026 Golden Globe Race.

This is not a story about superhuman strength—it’s about choosing to keep going, stroke after stroke, when everything says stop.

🔗 Connect with Erden: erdeneeruc.com

👉 For coaching with Sam Penny: sampenny.com/action