Availability dot

Available to book

Circular economy pioneer & sailor

Ellen MacArthur

Transform organisations through circular economy principles with Dame Ellen MacArthur, speaker, record-breaking yachtswoman. Ellen works with business leaders to drive sustainability innovation and peak performance leadership, delivering insights backed by her world sailing records and royal honours.

Trusted by InvolveTransform

Dame Ellen MacArthur, Speaker | Yachtswoman, Leader
Ellen MacArthur

Ellen MacArthur

London, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

Contact PepTalk for fees

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

Get Dame Ellen's availability

Availability dot
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Book Dame Ellen

London, United Kingdom

Starting from

Contact PepTalk for fees

Send an email

loading@getapeptalk.com

Give us a call

+44 203 835 2929

Enquire Dame Ellen Now

Availability dot for speakers
Instant quote
No upfront fee
Vetted speaker

Ellen MacArthur's biography

At a glance

  • Record-breaking solo circumnavigation sailor
  • Founder of Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, youth cancer support
  • Founder of Ellen MacArthur Foundation, circular economy advocacy
Dame Ellen MacArthur, a renowned yachtswoman and inspirational speaker, has significantly impacted society through her remarkable achievements. From sailing solo around-the-world to becoming a leader in peak performance, she is a favourite choice for engaging and motivating audiences. Ellen's passion for the ocean began at a young age, and by the time she was 11, she had saved enough money to buy her own dinghy. At 18, she owned a 21-foot yacht named Idune, which she sailed around the UK. Her accomplishments made her the British Young Sailor of the Year and the youngest recipient of the Yachtmaster Offshore Qualification. At 24, Ellen entered the Vendee Globe and completed a 94-day journey around the globe, coming in second place. She broke records, becoming the fastest solo voyager to reach the equator in 2005. Her circumnavigation of the globe in 71 days, 14 hours, and 18 minutes surpassed the previous record set by Francis Joyon. In addition to her sailing career, Ellen has published two autobiographies and founded her charity, the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, which helps young people with cancer regain their confidence and ambition through sailing. She also established the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, which promotes a circular economy. Recognised for her contributions, Ellen has been awarded an MBE and a damehood. Her speaking topics include goal setting, leadership, circular economy, risk management, business management, innovation, and creativity.

Why we recommend booking Dame Ellen

Dame Ellen's captivating stories and motivational insights make her an ideal choice as a speaker. Her speeches have been described as humbling and thought-provoking, leaving a lasting impact on audiences.

Check Dame Ellen's availability

Trusted by InvolveTransform

Testimonials

Truly humbling and human, really moved everyone and made them hold up a mirror to themselves.

Involve

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Ellen MacArthur for my next event?
Email ellen.macarthur@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Dame Ellen's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.
What is Ellen MacArthur's speaking style like?
Ellen MacArthur draws on her record-breaking solo sailing expeditions as a framework for exploring themes of goal setting, risk management, and resilience, translating the logistical and psychological demands of long-distance ocean racing into lessons applicable to business and leadership contexts.
What topics does Ellen MacArthur specialise in?
Dame Ellen MacArthur speaks on the circular economy, goal setting, leadership, risk management, and innovation. She holds the world record for the fastest solo circumnavigation of the globe, completing the journey in 71 days, 14 hours, and 18 minutes in 2005, surpassing the record previously set by Francis Joyon.
Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

What logistics should I prepare before my speakers arrive?

Before your speakers arrive, confirm AV is tested, a green room is ready, and printed schedules are on hand. Prepare warm introductions for each speaker and brief your team on timings. PepTalk speakers come fully briefed, making event-day logistics smoother and stress-free from the start.

What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule a speaker booking?

Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

Have all the speakers on the website previously worked with PepTalk?

Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

What information do I need to provide when booking a comedian?

When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

Can I request autographs, personal greetings, signed merchandise, or fan mail from the speakers?

Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

How can I report an issue or make changes to an expert profile?

If you notice something that needs attention or have any queries regarding an expert speaker profile, please email us at experts@getapeptalk.com, and we’ll be happy to assist.

How far in advance should I book a motivational speaker?

Book a motivational speaker at least 3–6 months in advance, especially for popular speakers or large events. Top speakers get booked quickly, so earlier is always better. For major conferences or peak seasons, booking 12 months ahead ensures you secure your first choice.

Help, I need a last-minute speaker for my event!

No problem! We often handle last-minute requests and can secure or replace a speaker, comedian, awards or event host quickly — almost anywhere in the world. However, speaker availability might be limited as the event date approaches. Email hello@getapeptalk.com with your requirements.