The Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs is extending its cooperation with Statsraad Lehmkuhl and the next One Ocean Expedition, which will sail through the Northwest Passage.
After the success of the One Ocean Expedition 2021-2023 circumnavigation, Statsraad Lehmkuhl is well underway with the planning of a new large expedition.
– The good cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and the embassies was absolutely crucial for the success of the circumnavigation. It is therefore incredibly gratifying for the Lehmkuhl Foundation to announce that a new cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been concluded for One Ocean Expedition 2025 -2026, Haakon Vatle, expedition leader and director of the Lehmkuhl Foundation, says.
Statsraad Lehmkuhl in the Caribbean Sea during the One Ocean Expedition 2021-2023. Photo: Isak Okkenhaug
Internally at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, there is great enthusiasm for the project.
Planned itinerary for One Ocean Expedition April 2025 – April 2026. The itinerary is subject to change. Graphics: Christian Ertvaag
– It is incredibly important both for the feasibility of the upcoming expedition and for our other partners that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs sees the value of being an active part of One Ocean Expedition 2025 – 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its foreign missions stations are absolutely essential to have on board for the expedition to succeed in the best possible way. This collaboration inspires and motivates us all to further efforts, and strengthens our purpose of creating awareness and sharing knowledge about the ocean’s crucial role for a sustainable future for the future generations, Vatle says.
Thumbs up from expedition leader Haakon Vatle, here during the voyage around Cape Horn in April 2022. Photo: Hanna Thevik
The One Ocean Expedition is a recognized part of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
During the first expedition, which spanned almost two years, Statsraad Lehmkuhl sailed 60,000 nautical miles and visited 37 ports around the globe.
The next One Ocean Expedition starts from Bergen in April 2025 on the first day of the One Ocean Week and lasts for 12 months until the return to the opening of the next One Ocean Week in Bergen in April 2026.
Published 20.12.23
By Helene Spurkeland
Photo: Isak Okkenhaug
“Norway is looking forward to Statsraad Lehmkuhl's expedition in 2025-26.” Maria Varteressian, State Secretary to the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
