Young New Zealand Adventurers Navigate to Antarctica: Following in the Footsteps of Legendary Polar Explorers

Eight adventurous young New Zealanders are set to sail from Argentina to Antarctica on the historic tall ship Bark EUROPA. Their journey begins in January and promises a month full of excitement.

The group, aged 18 to 30, includes Meleki Schulster, a 21-year-old global studies graduate from Wellington. For Meleki, spending weeks on a ship (sleeping and living on board) is a thrilling first. He compares the Bark EUROPA, which he calls “cool” and reminiscent of “Pirates of the Caribbean”, to the voyages of ancient explorers who relied on stars for navigation.

As the participants learn to sail, they will take turns working in shifts of four hours on and eight hours off. After crossing the infamous Drake Passage—known for either calm (the Drake Lake) or wild weather (the Drake Shake)—the group will explore the stunning Antarctic Peninsula for over a week.

Lisa Blair, a record-breaking sailor and an instructor on this voyage, shares her insights. According to her, the conditions can vary widely. “You could face calm seas or ten-meter waves. Everyone might feel seasick in challenging weather,” she says, underscoring how unpredictable the waters can be.

This expedition aims to foster an explorer’s mindset among participants. “We want to encourage curiosity and teamwork,” Blair explains. “It’s essential for the next generation to connect with places like Antarctica to advocate for their protection,” she notes, reflecting on the responsibilities of young explorers.

Blair herself holds several world records, including the fastest solo, non-stop, unassisted sail around Antarctica in 2022. She didn’t start sailing until she was 25 and remembers how daunting her first experiences were. “I want to support the group as they face their challenges,” she adds.

Historically, tall ships like Bark EUROPA played crucial roles in the early explorations of Antarctica, with figures like Captain Robert Falcon Scott and Sir Ernest Shackleton at the helm. Built in 1911, Bark EUROPA has transformed from a floating lighthouse to an operational sailing ship, connecting past explorations to modern adventures.

Moreover, during their voyage, the participants will engage in research through a partnership with the Polar Citizen Science Collective. They will gather crucial data on microplastics and record sightings of wildlife like birds and whales, contributing to important scientific research.

This expedition isn’t just about the journey; it’s a chance to inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect our precious planet. As Meleki said, “I feel so privileged to be part of something bigger.”

For more information, visit Radio New Zealand.

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