Boris Herrmann’s Team Malizia has unveiled a new vessel, not for racing, but for scientific exploration and climate action, marking a significant expansion of their commitment to ocean conservation. The announcement was made by the six-time round-the-world sailor at the opening of the 1st National Maritime Conference in Berlin. This bold initiative aims to synergize sailing, scientific research, and creative endeavors to amplify the voice of the ocean and address pressing environmental challenges.
The newly acquired vessel, a nearly 26-meter-long former aluminum cruise ship built in 2005, has undergone extensive refurbishment by Team Malizia over the winter. It is scheduled to be christened "Malizia Explorer" on June 6th in Monaco by renowned oceanographer and researcher Sylvia Earle. This symbolic naming underscores the ship’s primary purpose: to explore and understand the ocean environment.
The "Malizia Explorer" project is supported by a consortium of prominent partners, including the German shipping company F Laeisz, and leading scientific institutions such as the Alfred Wegener Institute (AWI), Geomar Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO, and other collaborators. This collaborative approach reflects the complexity of the issues at hand and the need for interdisciplinary expertise to address them effectively.
Herrmann, who is targeting a third participation in the solo round-the-world race Vendée Globe in 2028 and will compete in the Ocean Race Europe this summer, emphasized the importance of the research project. He stated that it represents a "crucial step towards uniting sailors, scientists, and creatives to give the ocean a voice." Team Malizia, in a statement, described the endeavor as a "courageous project," inviting collaborations and scientific projects and actively seeking partners to join them in their mission.
The initial expeditions are planned for the Mediterranean Sea, with subsequent voyages to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. These diverse environments offer unique opportunities for scientific research and data collection, providing valuable insights into the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. The team plans to investigate a variety of factors, including ocean acidification, plastic pollution, and biodiversity loss.
Team Malizia has articulated its ambition to "influence national priorities in the areas of climate and health." This ambitious goal reflects the team’s commitment to translating scientific findings into actionable policies. The team intends to use its platform to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation and to advocate for policies that protect marine environments.
The team’s commitment to environmental action is rooted in its founding principles. Boris Herrmann noted that the team’s slogan, "A Race We Must Win – Climate Action Now!" which has been the driving force since the team’s inception in 2016 with Pierre Casiraghi, encapsulates their dedication to addressing climate change. The slogan serves as a constant reminder of the urgent need for action and the importance of working together to protect the planet.
The "Malizia Explorer" is equipped with state-of-the-art scientific equipment, enabling researchers to collect a wide range of data on ocean conditions, marine life, and pollution levels. The data collected will be shared with the scientific community to advance understanding of the ocean and its role in the global climate system.
The project also aims to engage the public in ocean conservation. Team Malizia plans to produce educational materials and outreach programs to raise awareness about the importance of protecting marine environments. The team believes that by inspiring individuals to take action, it can make a significant contribution to ocean conservation.
The acquisition and repurposing of the former cruise ship represent a sustainable approach to research. By giving the vessel a new purpose, Team Malizia is reducing waste and contributing to a circular economy. The refurbishment process also prioritized sustainable materials and practices, minimizing the project’s environmental footprint.
The "Malizia Explorer" project is not just about scientific research; it is also about building bridges between different communities. By bringing together sailors, scientists, and creatives, Team Malizia is fostering a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and creativity. The team believes that this interdisciplinary approach is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing the ocean.
The "Malizia Explorer" project is a testament to Team Malizia’s dedication to ocean conservation. It is a bold and ambitious initiative that has the potential to make a significant contribution to our understanding of the ocean and its role in the global climate system. The team’s commitment to collaboration, education, and advocacy will help to inspire action and protect marine environments for future generations.
The launch of the "Malizia Explorer" signifies a significant turning point for Team Malizia, transforming them from primarily a racing team to an organization deeply involved in ocean research and advocacy. This transition demonstrates a growing recognition within the sailing community of the urgent need to address environmental challenges and the potential for athletes and adventurers to contribute to scientific discovery and conservation efforts. The project could inspire other sailing teams and organizations to integrate scientific research and environmental advocacy into their activities.
The voyages planned for the "Malizia Explorer" will provide unique opportunities for real-time data collection in some of the world’s most vulnerable marine environments. The data gathered will be invaluable for scientists studying the impacts of climate change and other threats to ocean ecosystems. Furthermore, the ship will serve as a platform for engaging with local communities and raising awareness about the importance of protecting marine resources.
The "Malizia Explorer" project aligns with global efforts to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of the oceans, seas, and marine resources. By contributing to scientific understanding and promoting sustainable practices, Team Malizia is playing a role in achieving these goals.
The project will also provide opportunities for training and education, particularly for young scientists and researchers. By involving students and early-career professionals in research expeditions, Team Malizia is helping to build the next generation of ocean leaders.
The "Malizia Explorer" project represents a paradigm shift in the relationship between sailing and science. It demonstrates the power of collaboration and the potential for individuals and organizations to make a difference in the fight against climate change and the preservation of our oceans.
