Anyone can join this pioneering two-year conservation voyage

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Join the Pioneering Conservation Voyage for Two Years

This article has been created in collaboration with National Geographic Traveller (UK).

Following in the footsteps of Charles Darwin’s remarkable exploration and documentation of the natural world aboard HMS Beagle nearly two centuries ago, a groundbreaking expedition is set to embark on a similar journey. Departing from Plymouth, the same port from which the Beagle set sail, the Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde will commence its voyage on 14th August.

Spanning over two years, this extraordinary journey will cover 40,000 nautical miles across four continents, with captivating destinations including Rio de Janeiro, Tahiti, Sydney, and Cape Town. Adventure-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike can secure a spot on any of the 32 legs of the voyage, with prices ranging from £350 to £6,250 per person, depending on the duration of the trip. No prior sailing experience is required for most legs.

Led by a team of seasoned sailors, passengers will have the opportunity to take the helm, navigate, and handle the ropes of the magnificent three-masted topsail schooner. Sharing the ship with environmental researchers, they will participate in the assessment of coral health, microplastics, seabirds, and marine life throughout the journey.

At each port of call, as new guests come aboard, the environmentalists will disembark to collaborate with local NGOs and conservation experts in studying endemic species such as armadillos, howler monkeys, and ancient dragon trees—many of which Darwin himself documented during his historic voyage. The progress of the expedition and the researchers’ findings can be followed online through blogs and videos. Additionally, the crew will conduct virtual lectures, organize activities, and host a weekly online “nature hour” to inspire global interest in conservation.

A decade in the making, Darwin200 is the brainchild of British naturalist, geographer, and conservationist Stewart McPherson, with support from esteemed conservation leaders, including botanist Dr. Sarah Darwin, the great-great-granddaughter of Charles Darwin.

Key Ports for Darwin200:

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

This wildlife-rich archipelago is where Darwin made pivotal discoveries that shaped his groundbreaking work on evolution. Guests aboard the Oosterschelde will have the rare opportunity to sail through these remarkable islands, powered solely by the wind without the use of motorized engines.

Stanley, Falkland Islands (Las Malvinas)

After an exhilarating 48-day journey at sea—by far the longest leg and one that requires previous sailing experience—sailors will disembark in Stanley. The voyage begins in Christchurch, New Zealand, and sails around the infamous Cape Horn.

Tristan da Cunha, St Helena

Located halfway between southern Africa and South America, this remote inhabited island stands as one of the most unique stops along the voyage. With a population of only 234 citizens, Tristan da Cunha boasts no hotels, airport, holiday representatives, nightclubs, or restaurants, as proudly declared on its tourism website.

Fernando de Noronha, Brazil

Following the transatlantic crossing from Europe, sailors will arrive at this captivating Brazilian archipelago renowned for its picturesque beaches. The 21 islands, situated over 300 miles away from the mainland, are a protected marine reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Published in the Jul/Aug 2023 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about conservation voyage

More about conservation voyage

• National Geographic Traveller (UK) website
• Darwin200 Official Website
• Oosterschelde Tall Ship
• Charles Darwin and the HMS Beagle
• Galápagos Islands
• Falkland Islands (Las Malvinas)
• Tristan da Cunha
• Fernando de Noronha