Abel TasmanKeith shares why he gave up an executive role at Citi Bank to sail the Abel Tasman on a four month voyage through the Arctic. Read the article here: https://www.afr.com/life-and-luxury/travel/this-aussie-banker-jacked-it-in-for-an-arctic-journey-like-no-other-20241009-p5kh64
Northwest Passage Ocean Science Expedition featured in Financial Review
On behalf of all the crew, we’d like to say thank you to everyone who followed along with the Northwest Passage Ocean Science Expedition. Your support has been incredible, and we’re so grateful to have shared this Arctic journey with you. And a special shoutout to all of our incredible sponsors and partners who made this expedition possible... A huge thank you to our Lead Sponsor Mercuria for their generous support - their contribution was key to the success of our science expedition. Our Science and Impact Partners: The Ocean Race, NatureMetrics, UPC, and the Villars Institute. And with special thanks to: Houdini, Shackleton, Villars Institute, Thesus, Ocean Bottle, Parajet, Vittorazi motors, Ozone Paramotor, Sailproof, MSQ/Sustain, The Marine Diaries, and ZeroSixZero. Thank you all for your unwavering support and dedication to ocean exploration and scientific discovery.
Alex Rockström, Keith Tuffley, and Isak Rockström hold the expedition and Mercuria flags. Credit: Keith TuffleyWith the Abel Tasman safely tucked away in Homer’s harbour for the winter, the crew of the Northwest Passage Expedition have parted ways after several months at sea together. Now homeward bound, and destined for different corners of the globe, the vivid memories of this incredible journey - defined by challenges, wildlife encounters, and the rugged, remote beauty of the Arctic - will remain with them forever.
Some of the crew members jumping for joy at the end of the expedition. Credit: Keith TuffleyKeith shares his first-hand account of the expedition and the mission the crew have been on, witnessing a rapidly changing Arctic and sailing through unpredictable weather. Read the article here: https://earth.org/peering-over-the-edge-of-the-planets-tipping-points-meet-the-team-on-a-four-month-expedition-across-the-arctic-circle/
Northwest Passage Ocean Science Expedition featured in Earth.orgThe crew have arrived at their final destination - Homer, Alaska. They had a beautiful sail from the Aleutian Islands, sailing close to the dramatic chain of volcanic islands and taking in the stunning scenery. The Abel Tasman pulled into Kachemak Bay to the backdrop of a spectacular red sunset - the best of the whole journey so far - and finally pulled into port quietly and modestly under the cover of complete darkness. A small group of local sailors gathered to welcome the crew, having noticed the beautiful Abel Tasman on the horizon as it came into shore. The team celebrated by taking some photos and cracking open a few cold beers - to toast the end of an epic journey through the Arctic.
Map location showing the Abel Tasman in Homer, AlaskaAfter 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.etcThe 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 Thorell
Subscribe to keep updated with our journey, the results of our science surveys, and more!
