Hawk Yachts is sponsoring eXXpedition North Pacific 2018 a pioneering all-female sailing expedition and scientific research mission starting in Hawaii and ending in Seattle via Vancouver this summer led by British skipper and ocean advocate Emily Penn.
It will see a diverse and international group of 24 women, split over two voyage legs, journey over 3,000 nautical miles through the densest ocean plastic accumulation zone on the planet, the North Pacific Gyre - better known as the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
The expedition aims to: raise awareness of the devastating impact of single-use plastic and toxics in the world’s oceans; celebrate women in science, leadership and adventure; create a community of female change-makers and inspiring global ambassadors to tackle the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution; and champion and contribute to innovative scientific research to tackle the crisis.
eXXpedition, the British Community Interest Company behind North Pacific 2018, specialises in all-women sailing expeditions. This is their 10th eXXpedition voyage and the first in the North Pacific Gyre. It has the endorsement and support of the UN Environment Clean Seas initiative and Ocean Wise.
Public interest in ocean plastic pollution is at an all time high and the crew want their voyage to put a spotlight on the lesser understood issue of microplastics. During the month long voyage, the crew will make daily trawls for plastics and pollutants, and collect data for a variety of global datasets and scientific research studies.
The eXXpedition crew is made up of scientists, students, artists, filmmakers, business women, psychologists, actors, ocean activists and sustainability professionals, and novice as well as experienced sailors.
Sea Dragon, a 72ft scientific exploration vessel (owned by Pangaea Exploration) from Oahu, Hawaii to Vancouver, British Columbia (June 23rd - July 15th 2018) and then from Vancouver to Seattle (July 21st - July 28th 2018) where the journey will end. A roster of events in each place will be announced closer to the departure.
Hawk Yachts are proud to sponsor eXXpedition and believe in responsible yachting with a focus on efficient building, running and environmental consideration. We look forward to following the progress of the team and wish them a safe voyage!
