World Record-Holding British Caver Awarded The Pride of Britain Award For Playing a Crucial Role in The 2018 Thai Cave Rescue
John Volanthen is a world record–holding British cave diver, rescuer and explorer best known for his heroic role in the 2018 Thai cave rescue. A specialist in extreme environments, he has spent over two decades at the forefront of cave exploration and underwater rescue missions worldwide. In recognition of his courage and technical expertise, John has received numerous honours, including the George Medal, PADI’s Medal of Valour and the Pride of Britain Award. His remarkable story was later depicted in the acclaimed Disney+ documentary The Rescue.
John’s career as a cave explorer began in the UK, where his passion for adventure and precision led him to become one of the world’s leading technical divers. Over the years, he has explored and mapped complex cave systems in the UK, Europe and Malaysia, often working alongside his dive partner, Rick Stanton. His achievements include setting a world record in 2004 for the greatest depth reached in a British cave, completing a 76-metre dive at Wookey Hole, and in 2010 establishing a new world record for the longest cave penetration dive in Spain’s Pozo Azul system, reaching 8,800 metres.
John’s expertise has also been vital in rescue and recovery operations, including the Gliesion Colliery flooding and the recovery of diver Paul Esser. His exceptional composure under pressure and commitment to safety have earned him awards such as the Royal Humane Society’s Bronze Medal and international recognition as one of the finest rescue divers of his generation.
John is the author of ‘Thirteen Lessons That Saved Thirteen Lives: The Inside Story of the Thai Cave Rescue’, an inspiring account that combines technical insight with powerful lessons on teamwork, resilience and courage. His experiences were also featured in ‘The Rescue’, the 2021 Disney+ documentary that followed the events of the Thai cave mission and the extraordinary collaboration that saved the trapped football team.
Why Hire John Volanthen?
Audiences book John as a speaker for his extraordinary story of leadership, problem-solving and calm under pressure. Through gripping storytelling, he takes audiences inside one of the most challenging rescue operations in modern history, sharing the mindset and teamwork that made the impossible possible. His talks explore how preparation, humility and focus are key to success in high-stakes environments, whether underwater or in business.
Known for his modesty and authenticity, John connects deeply with listeners, translating lessons from his record-breaking expeditions and life-saving missions into practical insights on resilience, risk management and decision-making. His ability to inspire and motivate through real-world experience makes him one of the most compelling and respected speakers on leadership and performance today.
To book John to speak at your event, call SpeakOut on +44 (0) 20 8914 8966. Alternatively, complete our contact form to begin your enquiry.
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- TESTIMONIALS
- SPEAKING TOPICS
- COSTS
“Please say a huge thank you to John for a fantastic speech last night at our event in Cardiff. It was very well received and has given everyone some real food for thought. John worked really hard to weave our messaging into the speech and took on board our brief from the call we had with him.” – Jo, Communications & Engagement Specialist, Viridor
“The session with Jonathan was excellent. The feedback was super positive from everyone, his story really is genuinely inspiring… you can very much see how he would have a level head under pressure!” – Louis, Head of UK, IG
“John’s keynote was great! You could have heard a pin drop and literally nobody was on their phone which (unfortunately) is not always the case.” – Richmond Events
- Working together
- Pioneering and innovation
- Resilience and mental strength
- Influencing and leading
The cost of hiring John Volanthen depends on your event format, location, duration and any travel requirements. For an accurate and tailored quote, please contact a SpeakOut booking agent for expert guidance.