Abel TasmanAfter detecting a large cyclone brewing in the Pacific and heading their way - with wind speeds of 175 kph and waves of 15 m forecasted - the crew sought shelter in Chignik. Whilst waiting for the storm to pass, they took the opportunity to explore the local waterfalls, coastline, and beautiful landscape.
The crew explore the coastline and mountains surrounding Chignik. Credits: Rakel Thorell, and Cléo Campe / MEDIA.etc
The crew are taking samples of eDNA and microplastics, as well as acoustic recordings as they sail through the Bering Sea and into the Pacific Ocean. In partnership with NatureMetrics, The Ocean Race, and UPC, the data collected will help scientists to better understand the health of Arctic marine ecosystems.
Alex Rockström collects a water sample from the ocean, from which eDNA will be extracted using a special filter. Credit: Keith TuffleyKeith gave a virtual talk for The Explorers Club in New York, at the ‘Impatient Optimists Reception and Dinner’ for climate leaders during Climate Week NYC. He spoke about the Arctic Tipping Points, the data collection being conducted onboard, and the progress of the expedition so far. He was joined by Dr Sylvia Earle and Professor Johan Rockström to discuss the latest science on Planetary Boundaries and Tipping Points, and how the Northwest Passage Ocean Science expedition is observing these changes in real time. Attendees at the event included a number of ocean experts who are members of the 'Lofoten Hope Initiative' community that was created in 2023 during a previous expedition on the Abel Tasman.
Keith Tuffley speaks at The Explorers Club in New York, during Climate Week NYC. Credit: MuccitasAfter spending several days in Nome meeting the local community, making repairs, paramotoring, and exploring the small town, the team set sail towards their final stop - Homer.
Isak Rockström (Skipper) and Alex Rockström (First Mate) at the helm of the Abel Tasman. Credit: Rakel ThorellWith the filming for the 6-part documentary series coming to an end in Nome (complete with a final interview from Keith), the crew said goodbye to Sylvestre and Ramon after an incredible few months together.
Left: Keith Tuffley is interviewed by the MEDIA.etc film crew. Middle: The team says farewell to Sylvestre and Ramon. Credits: Keith Tuffley. Right: The Abel Tasman moored in Nome harbour. Credit: Rakel ThorellThe article covers the expedition and the Climate Stripes Sail, quoting Keith: “The Climate Stripes gennaker is more than just a sail - it’s a call to action. With every nautical mile, it reminds us of the changes our planet is facing. Whilst it’s a stark reminder of climate change, it’s also a visual inspiration for the actions and systemic changes we need to make to stabilise Earth’s climate and Bring Back the Blue.” Read the article here: https://www.uksailmakers.com/2024/09/18/ocean-science-expedition/
Northwest Passage Ocean Science Expedition featured in UK SailmakersThe crew have arrived in the historic gold mining town of Nome - their penultimate stop of the expedition and the official end of the Northwest Passage. Since leaving Canadian waters, the crew have had a challenging sail around the Northern and Western coastlines of Alaska, USA. They’ve sailed past Arctic tundra, majestic mountains, encountered a huge flock of scoter birds feeding, and sailed through Beaufort, Chukchi, and Bering Seas. Whilst in Nome, the crew will be making some maintenance work on the Abel Tasman, with help from a local sailing expert. From here, Sylvestre and Ramon will also leave the remainder of the crew to head back home.
Map location showing the Abel Tasman in Nome, AlaskaAs the crew sailed South, passing Point Hope, the flat tundra landscape they’d seen for a month was replaced with cliffs and majestic mountains rising out of the sea.
Mountains rise out of the sea near Point Hope, Alaska. Credit: Keith TuffleyThe article highlights the crucial Arctic Tipping Points, and this expedition's journey through 6 of them.
Northwest Passage Ocean Science Expedition featured in Yachting MonthlyAfter passing Point Barrow, the crew turned South towards their penultimate stop - Nome. Conditions in the Chukchi Sea were incredibly flat, with low winds, so the crew hoisted the gennaker sail several times - proudly displaying the Climate Stripes - to gain some momentum.
Flat and calm conditions in the Chukchi Sea. Credit: Keith Tuffley
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