Ben Saunders is a British polar explorer, endurance athlete, and keynote speaker best known as one of only three people in history to ski solo to both the North and South Poles. He holds the Guinness World Record for the longest human-powered polar journey ever completed, and today splits his time between public speaking, climate-tech investing, and new “frontiers” beyond the ice. Here is everything verified about his life, career, and latest news.
Personal Information
| Full Name | Benjamin John Saunders |
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1977 |
| Age | 49 Years Old (as of 2026) |
| Nationality | British (English), born in Plymouth, Devon |
| Profession | Polar Explorer, Endurance Athlete, Keynote Speaker, Investor |
| Platforms | Instagram (@polarben), Threads (@polarben), bensaunders.com |
| Known For | Longest human-powered polar journey in history (The Scott Expedition); solo ski expeditions to the North and South Poles |
| Net Worth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Spouse | Married (reportedly since around 2018); spouse’s name not publicly confirmed |
| Children | Not publicly disclosed |
Body Measurements
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Body Measurements | Lean, athletic endurance build typical of long-distance polar athletes (exact measurements not publicly disclosed) |
| Body Type | Athletic / Lean |
| Eye Color | Not publicly disclosed |
| Hair Color | Reddish-Brown |
Bio & Career
- Born August 5, 1977, in Plymouth, Devon, England; educated at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
- In 2004, skied solo and unsupported to the North Pole, becoming (at the time) the youngest person to do so.
- Between 2013 and 2014, led The Scott Expedition, the first return journey to the South Pole on foot via the routes taken by Scott and Shackleton — a 2,888 km (1,801-mile), 108-day trek that set the Guinness World Record for the longest human-powered polar journey in history.
- Is one of only three people to have skied solo to both the North and South Poles.
- Has skied more than 4,500 miles across polar expeditions over two decades.
- Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and has given three TED Talks with a combined audience of several million views.
- Cofounder of Arctic Research and Development (@arctic_rd) and a partner at Park Vale Capital, investing in early-stage climate technology companies.
- Works internationally as a keynote speaker on resilience, leadership, and risk, having spoken in over 45 countries.
- Brand ambassador relationships have included Land Rover and Canada Goose.
Popularity
Latest News – Ben Saunders (2026)
- On March 18, 2026, Saunders spoke at the Yakima Town Hall series at the Capitol Theater in Yakima, Washington, discussing his record-breaking Antarctic expedition and lessons on resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
- He continues to build Arctic Research and Development (@arctic_rd) alongside his cofounders, focused on new polar and adventure research projects.
- Saunders remains active as a partner at Park Vale Capital, backing early-stage climate technology startups.
- He continues an international keynote-speaking schedule and is reported to be working on a new book project.
FAQs
Q: Who is Ben Saunders?
A: Ben Saunders is a British polar explorer, endurance athlete, and keynote speaker known for skiing solo to both the North and South Poles and for holding the world record for the longest human-powered polar journey in history.
Q: How old is Ben Saunders?
A: Ben Saunders was born on August 5, 1977, making him 49 years old as of 2026.
Q: What is Ben Saunders famous for?
A: He is famous for The Scott Expedition (2013–14), the first return journey to the South Pole on foot via Scott and Shackleton’s routes, and for being one of only three people to have skied solo to both poles.
Q: What is Ben Saunders’ net worth?
A: His exact net worth has not been publicly disclosed. His income sources include keynote speaking, brand partnerships, and his role as a partner at Park Vale Capital.
Q: Is Ben Saunders married?
A: Reports indicate Saunders has been married since around 2018, though his spouse’s name has not been widely publicized.
Q: What is Ben Saunders’ Instagram handle?
A: His verified Instagram handle is @polarben.
