Barrington Scott Sets Guinness World Record for Fastest Scuba Dive Across All Seven Continents

BJ Scott

Barrington Scott continues to push the limits. From his humble beginnings in the Bronx to becoming the youngest African American master scuba diving instructor, Barrington has continuously defied expectations.

Recently, he made history by setting a new Guinness World Record for the fastest time to scuba dive on all seven continents, completing the challenge in 19 days, 19 hours, and 40 minutes.

This feat demonstrates his passion for the underwater world but also his unwavering determination to pursue extraordinary goals.

In this exclusive Q&A, Scott shares insights into his incredible journey, what being a Guinness World Record holder means and more.

How does it feel to have your name in the record books?

It feels a bit surreal. It’s a mix of pride and gratitude—knowing my journey is now part of history feels incredible.

Tell us about the journey that led to this incredible achievement. What inspired you to attempt breaking this record?

It all started with my love for diving and a desire to push boundaries. Watching the documentary Nyad was a pivotal moment for me—it sparked something inside to want to go off on my own adventure. From there, I realized I wanted to take on a challenge that would not only test my limits but also inspire others, to see that adventure and exploration are for everyone. This journey became about more than just setting a record; it became a way to show others that we belong in these spaces too.

Scuba diving across all seven continents in just 19 days, 19 hours, and 40 minutes is a massive feat. How did you manage to plan such an ambitious journey? What were the logistical challenges?

Planning this journey was definitely a challenge! It involved creating an efficient itinerary that covered all seven continents, coordinating flights, securing dive centers, and ensuring I had the right gear for every climate—from tropical waters to freezing Antarctica. The biggest hurdle was staying flexible, especially with the unexpected delays.

I have to give a shoutout to ChatGPT for cutting some of the work during the planning process—it helped streamline ideas and organize details, making the logistics a bit more manageable

You traveled over 27,000 miles to dive in some of the most remote locations in the world. How did you balance the physical and mental challenges of diving in so many different environments?

I made sure to schedule about 3–4 days in each location to allow myself adequate time to rest, recover, and prepare for the next dive. This was crucial, especially when transitioning between drastically different environments and time zones.

A lot of my training, especially in freediving, revolves around breathwork, mindfulness, and being fully present. These skills played a huge role in keeping me grounded and focused. Whenever the journey felt overwhelming or fatigue set in, I returned to those practices to steady myself. Rest, hydration, and maintaining a solid mindset were non-negotiables.

Were there any moments during the dives or the trip that truly stood out to you?

There were so many unforgettable moments during this journey, but a few truly stood out. Diving in Antarctica was absolutely magical. The sheer silence, the towering icebergs, and seeing penguins up close made it feel like I was on another planet. The icy waters had a stillness that was both humbling and awe-inspiring—it’s a memory I’ll carry with me.

Another standout was diving in Alexandria, Egypt, at the site of the ancient lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Exploring the underwater ruins felt like stepping back in time, connecting with a piece of history that most people only read about. It was an amazing moment.

As a record-holder, what advice would you give to others who may be inspired to pursue similar extreme sports or record-breaking goals?

My biggest advice is to start with a strong “why.” Knowing your purpose will keep you motivated when the journey gets tough. Whether it’s to inspire others, push your own limits, or achieve something you’ve always dreamed of, that “why” will anchor you through every challenge.

Be prepared. Do your research, train consistently, and focus on the details, but also understand that setbacks are part of the process. Don’t be afraid to fail. Every obstacle is an opportunity to learn and grow, and the journey itself is just as important as the outcome.

Most importantly, believe in yourself. Pursuing a big goal is daunting, but with persistence, a clear purpose, and a willingness to adapt, you can achieve things you never thought possible. Your dreams are worth the effort.

Barrington Scott

What’s next for you after breaking this record?

I want to keep inspiring others through adventure—maybe another Guinness record, hosting scuba group trips, and working on conservation projects, especially with sharks. The possibilities are endless, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me next.

What does being a Guinness World Record holder mean to you personally, and how do you hope it will inspire others?

It’s a reminder of what’s possible with determination and resilience. For me, it’s a testament to the value of hard work, focus, and the courage to chase an ambitious goal. It represents a milestone in my journey of self-discovery and adventure.

More importantly, I hope this achievement inspires others to dream big, challenge their limits, and believe in their ability to achieve extraordinary things—no matter where they come from or the obstacles they face. Whether it’s in diving, travel, or any other passion, I want people to see that their dreams are valid and within reach. I believe that representation matters, and by sharing this accomplishment, I aim to motivate others, particularly within the Black community, to explore new horizons, embrace their potential, and rewrite narratives about what they can achieve.