Blind Sailor Mitsuhiro Iwamoto Redefines the Limits of Possibility Through Technology in a Historic Trans-Pacific Project
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Postmedia has not reviewed the content. by Business Wire Hiro Iwamoto / Global Keynote Speaker, First Totally Blind Sailor to Cross the Pacific Business WireArticle content– “HIRO’s CHOICE”: A Solo, Non-Stop Crossing of the Pacific Ocean –Sign In or Create an AccountEmail AddressContinueor View more offersArticle contentFUJISAWA, Japan — Mitsuhiro Iwamoto, a Japanese sailor based in San Diego, who is taking on the world’s first solo, non-stop trans-Pacific crossing by a blind sailor as part of the Blind Sailor Single-Handed Pacific Crossing Project 2027, held a press conference on January 28 (local time) in San Diego, USA.Article contentWe apologize, but this video has failed to load.Try refreshing your browser, ortap here to see other videos from our team.Article contentArticle contentProject URL: https://hiros-choice.com/ On January 22 (local time), Iwamoto delivered a speech at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2026 (WEF) under the theme “Sailing Through Barriers.” Speaking about the upcoming voyage, he said, “Boundaries are not decided by others. They are transcended by choice.”Article contentTop StoriesGet the latest headlines, breaking news and columns.There was an error, please provide a valid email address.Sign UpBy signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.Thanks for signing up!A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.The next issue of Top Stories will soon be in your inbox.We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try againInterested in more newsletters? Browse here.Article contentWEF URL: https://www.weforum.org/meetings/world-economic-forum-annual-meeting-2026/sessions/sailing-through-barriers/ During the press conference, he explained that all navigational information is converted into audio and delivered through an application called “Leena.” All onboard sailing instruments, navigation systems, radar, AIS, and various sensors are fully integrated via the vessel’s Wi-Fi network. When Hiro speaks to the system, it provides only the information necessary for real-time decision-making at that moment.Article contentIn preparation for the voyage, a range of advanced support systems has also been put in place, including uninterrupted 24-hour connectivity via Starlink, a shore-based support center monitoring the journey, high-sensitivity thermal cameras, and a reliable power supply secured through lightweight, high-capacity lithium batteries and solar panels. The entire voyage will be continuously shared with a global audience, 24 hours a day.Article contentHiro explained, “Through technology, it redraws the line between what is considered ‘possible’ and ‘impossible.’ The key question is not ‘Can you see?’ The real question is ‘Can you continuously understand the situation?’” He concluded by stating, “I truly want to convey a message to the next generation.” After returning to Japan, he plans to sail around the country and share his experience directly with children.Article contentAt the conclusion of the press conference, Malin Burnham, a San Diego–based entrepreneur and philanthropist and a leading figure in the international sailing community made a surprise appearance. He offered words of encouragement to Iwamoto and announced a donation of $5,000 in support of the project.Article contentArticle contentArticle contentArticle contentView source version on businesswire.com: Article content https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260128531637/en/Article contentArticle contentContactsArticle contentBlind Sailor Single-Handed Pacific Crossing Project 2027 Email: press@hiros-choice.com / awamura@hiros-choice.com Phone: +81-90-3100-3976 (Kaori Awamura)Article content#distroArticle contentTrending Despite 'elbows up,' Canada on track to be net lender to U.S. for the ninth straight year Economy FAA backs Trump’s attacks on Canada over airplane certifications Airlines Subscriber only. 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