MEET THE TEAM
Cheerfulness. Courage. Determination. Unselfishness.

Founder & Expedition Lead
John Bathgate
John (Buffalo) is a former Royal Marine Commando and the founder of Summit to Sea, established in 2021. John specialised in amphibious operations and maritime navigation. Although he always felt equally at home in the mountains, where he spent much of his personal time developing his skills in that environment.
After leaving the Corps, John moved into rope access, building on the technical and practical skills he developed in the military.
Through Summit to Sea, he brings these skills together to deliver expeditions that have a positive impact on the environment and people’s lives.
John is a natural leader with relentless determination.

Expedition Lead
Ian Roberts
Ian (Yan) is a former Royal Marine Commando who specialised in amphibious operations, working across the sea, inland waterways and coastlines.
After leaving the Corps, Ian moved into close protection, building on the tactical awareness and experience he developed during his time in the Marines.
Having worked with John in the Indian Ocean, Ian was the first person John called on to join the Summit to Sea team.
Ian’s core value is cheerfulness in the face of adversity.
