– “HIRO’s CHOICE”: A solo non-stop crossing of the Pacific Ocean –
FUJISAWA, Japan, February 03, 2026–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Mitsuhiro Iwamoto, a Japanese sailor based in San Diego who is making the world’s first solo non-stop trans-Pacific crossing by a blind sailor as part of Project 2027: Blind Sailor Crosses the Pacific, held a press conference in San Diego, USA on January 28 (local time).
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On January 22 (local time), Iwamoto delivered a speech at the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF) under the theme “Sailing Through Barriers.” Speaking about the upcoming journey, he said: “Boundaries are not set by others. They are overcome by decisions.”
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During the press conference, he explained that all navigation information will be converted into audio and transmitted through an application called “Leena.” All sailing instruments, navigation systems, radars, AIS and various sensors on board are fully integrated via the ship’s WiFi network. When Hiro speaks to the system, it only provides the information necessary for real-time decision making at that moment.
In preparation for the voyage, a number of advanced support systems were put in place, including 24-hour uninterrupted connection via Starlink, a land-based support center monitoring the voyage, highly sensitive thermal imaging cameras and reliable power supply from lightweight, high-capacity lithium batteries and solar panels. The entire journey will be available to a global audience 24/7.
Hiro explained, “Technology is redrawing the boundaries between what is considered ‘possible’ and ‘impossible.’ The key question is not, ‘Can you see?’ The real question is, ‘Can you continually understand the situation?'” He concluded by saying, “I really want to convey a message to the next generation.” After returning to Japan, he plans to sail around the country and share his experiences directly with children.
At the end of the press conference, a surprise appearance was made by Malin Burnham, a San Diego-based entrepreneur and philanthropist and a leader in the international sailing community. He encouraged Iwamoto and announced a $5,000 donation to support the project.
