The Oosterschelde is the last remaining original Dutch three-master. Its homeport is Rotterdam and the ship sails wherever there is sufficient water. In 2023 it will sail the route that Charles Darwin made two centuries ago.
It’s a unique climate and nature initiative. The Oosterschelde follows the route that Charles Darwin made two centuries ago on HMS Beagle. Along the way, young scientists will carry out research.
The initiative came about in cooperation with the British organization DARWIN200. Its aim is to train the next generation of natural scientists and conservationists. To improve the world of tomorrow. The journey will take more than two years. The Dutch tall ship will moor at the same places where Darwin once landed and will welcome young natural scientists and conservationists on board.
Improve the world
A total of 200 young (18-25 years old) nature researchers and conservationists will get to know each other and each other’s work. These 200 young people are the decision-makers of the future; they will help to improve the world over the next 50 years.
On board the Oosterschelde, the young people do research and experiments and give lectures. World-renowned scientists and local NGOs pair with the participants to share their network, provide feedback reand support the training of all participants.
Research projects include plastic pollution in the oceans, global whale and dolphin species surveys, the health of global coral reefs, terrestrial habitat surveys, pollution solutions and many other environmental topics.
The results of these projects are broadcast live from the ship. By capturing and sharing the results of this project and offering experiments, lectures, teaching materials and video material to schools around the world, DARWIN200 aims to reach and enthuse millions of students and schoolchildren worldwide to get involved in nature conservation.
The history of the Oosterschelde
With its imposing rigging, its length of 50 meters and its stylish interior, the Oosterschelde is an impressive sight. The Three-mast top sail schooner was built in 1917 for international trade and completely restored in 1992. The Oosterschelde is recognized as a monument with great cultural and historical value. The Oosterschelde provides for its own maintenance.
For those wishing to join the DARWIN200 Global Voyage as sailors on board the tallship Oosterschelde, there are a limited number of places available on each voyage leg. The Oosterschelde can carry 24 voyage crew (members of the public joining as DARWIN SAILORS) plus a professional crew. She has a bar, a piano and a wood-fired stove.
