Joining an Ocean Warrior scientific expedition will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but we’re aware that there’s a lot to take in! Here are answers to some of your questions, but if you can’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us: we’d be happy to help.
How do I know if an Expedition is right for me?
The biggest thing to consider is whether you want to join a real expedition, with all the excitement and purpose that entails, or if you’d rather have an adventurous holiday. The Ocean Warrior voyages will be fascinating, educational and inspiring but something they won’t be is relaxing! If you’re after a recharge and rewind at sea, then one of our other sailing breaks might be more up your street.
(Find an alternative sailing voyage)
HOWEVER, if you’ve got a sense of adventure and want to be part of an amazing project, these expedition voyages could be just the ticket. The main attributes you’ll need to get the most out of these expeditions are: enthusiasm, resilience, good humour and teamwork.
If you’re still not sure, you can join a Zoom interview with Jim McNeill with guidance on fundraising, there is no charge for this.
Do I need any sailing experience?
No! You will be trained to help sail the ship by the professional crew. This will include sail handling, steering, anchoring and mooring manoeuvres, lookout duties and standing a night watch, as well as some basic navigation.
Safety is paramount, and you will receive extensive familiarisation with the ship, her systems and emergency procedures.
If you join a #Resolute Expedition, you will also gain a professional qualification in Personal Survival Techniques. This certificate is issued under the international STCW maritime safety code (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping) and is the first rung on the ladder for professional seafarers working on ships over 24m worldwide. The course covers correct use of lifejackets, survival suits, life rafts, responses to emergency situations, the principles of survival in the water and how to deal with a casualty.
Do I need to be good at science and maths?
No! You will receive full training in all aspects of any data collection you’ll be involved in, and you won’t be required to crunch the numbers personally.
Are there age restrictions?
You must be over 18 years old to take part in any of the Ocean Warrior expeditions. Apart from that, there are no age restrictions. Fitness and mobility are important, and these are assessed on an individual case by case basis (see below), rather than with an arbitrary upper age limit.
I have a health condition, can I join?
That depends on the condition. These voyages are much more remote and taxing than others available through Classic Sailing, and should be viewed as expeditions NOT as adventure holidays. With this in mind you will need good levels of fitness and mobility to be able to join.
If in doubt, get in touch. You can also fill in the application form on the Expedition leg you are interested in- you won’t be asked for any money. The form will ask you a series of health related questions, and if there are any concerns one of the team will be in touch to discuss this with you.
What kit do I need?
Have a look at the full Kit List (also included on each Expedition Leg page). You will need some decent sailing gear and plenty of warm clothes. Organising this can feel a daunting prospect, but help is at hand! You’ll receive your own expedition-branded Henri Lloyd offshore sailing jacket (worth £750) for joining Ocean Warrior, and as a participant you can also get 20% off much of the rest of the gear that you need. Just speak to Ocean Warrior Expedition Basecamp.
How do I get to and from the ship?
The Ocean Warrior team will advise and guide you, including providing detailed joining instructions to help with travel planning. It is your responsibility to pay for and organise your transport, plus any additional shoreside accommodation you may need.
Those on funded places (see below) will have their travel arranged for them.
Is there help available with funding my place?
Ocean Warrior will be raising money to provide one fully funded place on the #Resolute Expedition per year. Once applications for these places open we will update this page and make an announcement via our social media. Successful applicants for fully funded places will have their Expedition leg chosen for them according to ship capacity / researchers aboard / personal suitability.
There is also support available in finding your own sponsorship and fundraising towards your leg of the #Resolute Expedition. If you’re still not sure, you can join a Zoom interview with Jim McNeill with guidance on fundraising, there is no charge for this.
FREE Zoom Interview with Jim about the expeditions and fundraising.
Register Your Interest in Joining a #Resolute Expedition.
Ocean Warrior Project Fact SheetCan I stay on board for multiple legs of the #Resolute Expedition?
Absolutely, although unfortunately there are no discounts for multiple legs booked together. The Ocean Warrior Project is a not-for-profit enterprise, and budgets are tight!
