Exceptional Darwin Leaders to drive global change over the coming decades
CHANGE THE WORLD
Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery to re-trace Charles Darwinโs voyage around the globe.
CHANGE THE WORLD
Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery to re-trace Charles Darwinโs voyage around the globe.
OUR MISSION
DARWIN200 is a planetary conservation initiative which aims to change the world for the better.
We are sailing a historic tallship around the world following Charles Darwin’s voyage aboard HIMS Beagle two centuries ago.
Using our ship as a floating laboratory and media platform, we will harness the legacy of Charles Darwin’s passion for natural history to engage worldwide audiences and advance global conservation.
Discover our project goals below & join our mission.
Where are we on our Global Voyage?
Our journey will consist of 32 voyage legs and we will be making landfall at key locations where Charles Darwin stepped ashore. But where are we nowโฆ.
50.3755ยฐ N, 4.1427ยฐ W
DEPARTED
15th AUG
2023
FROM
PLYMOUTH UK
01
GOAL 1
EMPOWER
Train exceptional DARWIN, LEADERS, one from each of 200 countries and states around the world. These young conservationists will become tomorrow’s environmental leaders.
02
GOAL 2
INSPIRE
Create the WORLD’S MOST EXCITING CLASSROOM to reconnect global audiences with nature, science and conservation.
03
GOAL 3
solve
Undertake citizen science RESEARCH PROJECTS tackling many of the world’s most critical environmental problems to engage global audiences in practical solutions.
DARWIN Leaders
DARWIN200 is selecting the world’s top young (18+ year old) conservationists – one from each of two hundred countries and states around the world.
These exceptional young conservationists (known as ‘Darwin Leaders’) are carefully chosen for their abilities, initiative and determination. Many have already accomplished inspiring conservation feats (such as setting up projects to save endangered species or efforts to educate audiences in their home countries). All show the raw, burning passion to protect the natural world and drive positive change for a better future.
From August 2023 to July 2025, groups of 4-8 Darwin Leaders will travel to our ship in each of the ports Charles Darwin visited, using our ship as a floating laboratory and media platform.
Worldโs Most Exciting Classroom
During the DARWIN200 2023-2025 Global Voyage, our goal is to engage with millions of students at schools across the planet via continuous streams of free online activities, research projects, experiments, lectures, competitions and weekly ‘nature hour’ events.
We call these outreach activities ‘the world’s most exciting classroom’.
All our outreach activities will be completely free of charge for students, teachers and the general public. Our goal is to engage 200 million students worldwide during our two-year global voyage and for years to come.
Research
In continuation of Charles Darwin’s work aboard HMS Beagle, the DARWIN200 ship will offer a unique platform to support 8 research projects into many of the world’s most critical environmental problems. Results will be displayed via live data feeds, results presentations, online lectures and interviews with the professional teams of researchers behind each initiative.
12.02.1809 – 19.04.1882
CHARLES DARWIN
In 1831, at the age of 22, Charles Darwin stepped aboard HMS Beagle in Plymouth, England to being a five year journey around the world. DARWIN200 builds on Charles Darwinโs legacy to educate global audiences about the threats our planet faces and the inspiring conservation work that can save the natural world.
FACTS &
FIGURES
200
200
Million
Reaching 200 million students worldwide
50
Meter
Historic tall ship Oosterschelde
32
Voyage Legs
8
Interactive Citizen Science Research Projects
2023
Voyage starts
The Global Voyage will be undertaken aboard the historic 50 metre long tall ship Oosterschelde. Built in 1918, this uniquely restored, three masted schooner is one of the most beautiful historic vessels afloat.
press releases
As we countdown to our arrival at the mesmerising Galapagos Islands, hereโs a fascinating fact: Did you know the islands are home to majestic giant tortoises that can live for well over a century? Our excitement is mounting as we prepare to walk in the footsteps of the legendary Charles Darwin, whose observations here revolutionised our understanding of life on Earth.
Keep following us for daily doses of Darwin content as we approach the shores that once inspired evolutionary breakthroughs. ๐ข๐
#Darwin200 #GalapagosTrivia #NatureLovers #oosterschelde #charlesdarwin #galapagos #thegalapagosislands
๐DARWIN200 is proud to have participated in the Our Ocean Conference that took place in Greece this week @ourocean2024, as part of the โWaves of Cinema: A Festival of Oceanic Films.โ
Our Darwin Leaders, Iro Tsarmpopoulou-Fokianou, Nicholas Marin, and Luca Vincent represented us brilliantly, showcasing their individual projects on marine species and sharing the inspiring story of DARWIN200โs journey retracing Charles Darwinโs path on HMS Beagle.
๐ It was an honor for our team to meet influential figures in marine conservation, including our esteemed Darwin Patron, Sylvia Earle. Their insights and dedication to the ocean are truly motivating.
๐ Highlighting the event, our Tenerife Darwin Leader, Iro, presented the compelling documentary โGuanches of the Sea: The Pilot Whales of Tenerife,โ co-created with film maker Lorimer Macandrew. This film, offering a deep dive into the lives of Tenerifeโs pilot whales, ignited important discussions on ocean conservation effort.
Additionally, Luca Vincent and Filmmaker Jordan Conroyโs movie โThe Guiana Dolphinโs world of soundโ was screened at the Our Oceans Filmfestival. A documentary on the endemic dolphin species of Brazil and their vulnerability to anthropogenic noise pollution.
๐ Together, we are committed to advancing marine conservation and inspiring change.
๐ธ @nicomarinb
#OurOceanGreece #OurOcean2024 #JoinTheAlliance #SaveTheOcean #MarineConservation #Darwin200 #GuanchesOfTheSea #DARWIN200 #oosterschelde
๐ Join us for the next episode of the Worldโs Most Exciting Classroom! TODAY with @ebtsoyp ๐โจ
๐
TODAY, Thursday, 11th April at 2pm UK time/9am Eastern time
๐ฅ Tune in live or catch up afterwards via the link in our bio.
๐ข Hereโs a sneak peek of whatโs in store:
Explore the adventures of the Oosterschelde as it sets sail from Ecuador to the Galapagos!
Hear firsthand from Joe about his thrilling journey along the coast of Peru onboard the ship.
Dive into the fascinating wildlife and natural history of the Enchanted Isles, gearing up for the Galapagos!
Get ready for a new experiment and take on our weekly challenge.
Test your knowledge with a Kahoot quiz and participate in a live Q&A session!
Can you guess what our Curiosity of the Week is? ๐ค
…and thatโs just the beginning! ๐
#ExcitingClassroom #GalapagosAdventure #darwin200 #worldsmostexcitingclassroom #oosterschelde #freelearning #onlineeducation
Species Spotlight: Chilean Flamingo ๐ฆฉ
Meet the elegant and captivating Chilean Flamingo, a true icon of the South American wetlands! ๐ฟ
๐ Habitat: Found primarily in the wetlands, mudflats, and shallow lakes of South America, particularly in Chile, Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru.
๐จ Distinctive Features: Recognised by its striking pink plumage, long neck, and characteristic curved beak. The Chilean Flamingo sports vibrant pink feathers, which derive from the pigments in the algae and crustaceans they consume.
๐ฝ๏ธ Diet: Their diet mainly consists of algae, diatoms, small crustaceans, and aquatic insects. Their specialized beaks are perfectly adapted for filter-feeding in shallow waters.
๐ Social Structure: These graceful birds are highly social creatures, often forming large colonies during breeding season. Their colonies can comprise thousands of individuals, creating a spectacular sight against the wetland landscape.
๐ฅ Breeding: Chilean Flamingos typically breed in colonies, constructing cone-shaped mud nests in shallow waters. Both parents take turns incubating the single egg, and once hatched, the chick is cared for by both parents.
๐ Vocalisation: Known for their noisy and melodious calls, Chilean Flamingos communicate through a variety of vocalisations, including honks, grunts, and trumpeting sounds.
๐ Conservation Status: While the Chilean Flamingo is currently classified as โNear Threatenedโ by the IUCN Red List, habitat loss, pollution, and disturbance to breeding sites pose significant threats to their populations.
Did you know that the coloration of a flamingoโs feathers is influenced by its diet? Their pink hue is a result of pigments called carotenoids found in their food, particularly in algae and crustaceans.
๐ธ @joshclarkephotos
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #SpeciesSpotlight #ChileanFlamingo #ConservationAwareness
๐ Earlier this week, we were captivated by the final presentations of our Callao Darwin Leaders! Thank you to these dedicated and inspiring young conservationists, as well as our local expert partners who guided and supported them every step of the way. @concienciamarina @inkaterrahotels @itasociacion @planetaoceano @spda_peru
Here`s a glimpse into their remarkable projects:
๐ฟ Alex: Protecting Andean cloud forests
๐ฆ Cisne: Conservation efforts for giant manta rays
๐ Mafe: Addressing the oil spill fisheries in Ancon
๐ณ Matheus: Preserving the blue-headed macaw in the Amazon rainforest
๐ Thiago: Sustainable management of octopus fisheries in Ancon, Peru
๐บ Naia: Studying the vanilla orchid in the Peruvian Amazon
Their passion and dedication to environmental conservation are truly inspiring! ๐๐
#darwin200 #darwinleaders #CallaoDarwinLeaders #Conservation #YouthLeadership
๐Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this Easter holiday? Look no further! Join us TODAY, Thursday, 4th April at 2pm UK time/9am Eastern time! for this week`s FREE instalment of the World`s Most Exciting Classroom.
๐ฅ Tune in live or catch up later on Youtube. Head to the link in our bio for the link.
๐ Here`s what`s in store:
We`re leaving Peru behind and sailing towards Ecuador!
Host Joe Grabowski will share highlights from his time in the Amazon Rainforest at remote Manu National Park.
Callie Broaddus will join us to discuss her world-class conservation work in Ecuador`s cloud forest with Reserva Youth Land Trust.
Discover the results of our Making Crystals with Baking Soda Experiment.
Don`t miss our new experiment and challenge for this week.
Test your knowledge with a Kahoot quiz and participate in the live Q&A session.
Can you guess this week`s Curiosity of the Week?
…and much more!
Missed our last event? Catch up via the link in our bio.
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #globalvoyage #voyage #worldsmostexcitingclassroom #onlineevent #freeonlinevent #onlinelearning
Happy Birthday to DARWIN200 patron: Dr Jane Goodall. ๐ Join us in celebrating Dr. Jane Goodall`s 90th Birthday! As a true pioneer in primatology, conservation, and environmental activism, Jane`s impact on our world is immeasurable. ๐ As a key patron of DARWIN200, Jane`s dedication to safeguarding our planet`s ecosystems has inspired countless individuals globally. ๐ Jane`s passion and tireless advocacy continues to shape a brighter future for conservation. Thank you, Jane, for your remarkable contributions to science and humanity! #darwin200 #DARWIN200 #janegoodall #HappyBirthdayJaneGoodall #ConservationChampion #Darwin200HonoursJane
Meet our incredible Callao Darwin Leaders ๐ a team of passionate changemakers dedicated to preserving our planet`s precious ecosystems. This week, they`ve been hard at work alongside our wonderful local conservation partners, diving deep into some amazing research projects:
๐ Studying sustainable octopus fisheries.
๐ Investigating the protection and cultural value of the Giant Manta in Northern Peru.
๐ฆ Exploring the significance of the Cock of the Rock, Peru`s National Bird.
๐ฆ Researching the conservation efforts for the Blue Headed Macaw.
๐ณ Protecting the Amazon rainforest through Vanilla Orchid research.
๐ Examining the future of sustainable fisheries after the 2022 oil disaster.
Stay tuned for the release of each Darwin Leaders three-part documentary series, where you`ll get an up-close look at their incredible work.
A big thank you to our wonderful partners for your expert guidance and for making this week possible. @concienciamarina @inkaterrahotels @itasociacion @planetaoceano @spda_peru
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #ConservationHeroes #ProtectOurPlanet ๐๐ฌ๐ฅ
๐ Exploring Responsible Fishing Practices in Ancรณn Bay ๐ฃ Thiago Cardozo, our dedicated Darwin Leader, alongside filmmaker Veronica Lanza, delves into the depths of Ancรณn Bay to shed light on sustainable fishing practices.
In collaboration with @projeto_cephalopoda a and @concienciamarina , Thiago and Veronica are interviewing local fishermen and traders to understand the intricacies of resource extraction in this vibrant community.
Diving into the sea, a group of fishermen meticulously select benthic species like octopus, snails, crabs, and fish. They ensure sustainability by only harvesting species that aren`t in reproductive stage or below permitted sizes, safeguarding the ocean`s future.
Through resource monitoring and heartfelt testimonials, Thiago`s project aims to showcase the responsible fishing practices of this community.
Follow @thiagocardozosc and @veronicalanza__ to join us on this journey of discovery and advocacy for our oceans. ๐๐
Stay tuned for Thiago and Veronica`s discoveries and short film series released soon.
#darwin200 #nature #marinelife #SustainableFishing #Conservation #OceanProtection
๐ Taking a closer look at the journey along Peru`s Northern Coast with our Callao Darwin Leader Mafe, alongside camera operator Diego @cortezalab , exploring the aftermath of the 2022 oil disaster and the future of sustainable fisheries. ๐ฃ @mafecarmonab28 and NGO @concienciamarina are uncovering stories of resilience and hope amidst environmental challenges.
๐ธ Swipe through to witness the scenes captured:
1๏ธโฃ Tito, casting his net at dawn, embodying the enduring spirit of coastal livelihoods.
2๏ธโฃ Mafe, a Darwin200 leader, standing at Ventanilla Sea, a site deeply impacted by the oil spill.
3๏ธโฃ Untouched beaches along the Pasamayo serpentines, left uncared for by Repsol and the Peruvian government.
4๏ธโฃ Mafe with local fishermen, illustrating the human connection to the sea and its resources.
5๏ธโฃ Mirtha, a skilled fillet maker at Ancon Pier, showcasing the diverse roles within fishing communities.
6๏ธโฃ Mafe and Diego alongside Maria, a leading woman in Ancon`s fishing community, discussing the challenges and aspirations.
7๏ธโฃ A fisherman demanding accountability with his #RepsolTakeResponsibility t-shirt, advocating for justice.
8๏ธโฃ Mafe and Diego with Luis Garrido, president of the Ancon Fishermen`s Association, fostering dialogue and collaboration.
9๏ธโฃ-๐ Breathtaking sunsets along the coast, reminding us of the beauty worth protecting.
Special thanks to @concienciemarina, @permunayco , @jheniferfernandezmayta , @spda_peru and the crew of @dutchtallship aboard #TheOosterschelde for their warm welcome and support. Stay tuned for Mafe`s discoveries and short film series released soon. ๐
#SustainableFishing #environment #darwin200
Get ready to embark on another thrilling journey with our World`s Most Exciting Classroom! Join us for our next episode airing live on Thursday, March 28th at 1pm UK time/9am Eastern time. ๐โจ
Don`t miss out! Tune in via: Darwin200 YouTube page at the start time or anytime afterwards or via the link in our bio.
What`s in store for this weeks episode:
๐ We`ll be joined by Rosa Vasquez Espinoza, a Peruvian Chemical Biologist, National Geographic Explorer, educator, conservationist, and award-winning artist. She`ll be sharing her extraordinary work with MicroAmazon, delving into the microscopic universe of extreme environments and unique animals in the Amazon Rainforest. Learn about her exploration of the Boiling River and the incredible creatures that inhabit its dangerous waters.
๐ง๏ธ Discover the results of our Making a Cloud in a Jar Experiment.
๐ค Test your knowledge! Did you guess correctly what last weeks Curiosity of the Week was?
๐ Engage in a Kahoot Quiz with your class after tuning into the recording.
Please note: This week`s event will be prerecorded as our host will be in the Peruvian Amazon without connectivity. But fear not, the excitement continues!
Don`t miss out on this captivating episode. Mark your calendars, spread the word, and let`s embark on another unforgettable journey together!
#WorldsMostExcitingClassroom #DARWIN200 #adventureawaits
Take a look at these stunning images captured during our journey up from Chile!
From majestic pelicans to intricate Inca terns and Peruvian boobies, along with crabs, chitons, and sea lions feasting on fish all around the ship.
We even had a close encounter with a curious oystercatcher, and the highlight was capturing a shot with both a Humboldt penguin and an octopus in the frame!
Donโt forget to join us every week on the #darwin200 voyage through our World`s Most Exciting Classroom episodes on YouTube to stay updated on the adventures and wildlife encounters aboard the ship. Don`t miss out on the action!
You can view the latest episode recap via the link in our bio.
Photo credit goes to the talented @lostinthedevonian.
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #nature #penguin #wildlife #peru #chile #tallship
โจ Join us TODAY for the next episode of the World`s Most Exciting Classroom at 1pm UK time / 9am eastern time! ๐๐
๐ฅ Tune in live via the link in our bio.
We have an exciting line-up this week for you to enjoy;
๐ณ๏ธ Embark on a virtual journey as we sail from Valparaรญso, Chile to Callao, Peru! Experience the live uplink from the ship as we kick things off.
๐ณ Venture to a field station in the Peruvian Amazon and meet Ruth Pillco Huarcaya. Discover the amazing conservation work she`s doing with the Andean Bear, an emblematic species of the region.
๐ฆข Join Darwin Leader Karinne Tennenbaum as she shares her experience working on a shorebird conservation project in the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve, Chile.
Don`t miss out on this jam-packed program filled with adventure, education, and conservation insights! See you there! ๐
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #onlineevent #freeevent #ExcitingClassroom #VirtualLearning #ConservationEducation
Living on a ship is very unique. It becomes you and your crew mates own little planet leaving you to almost forget about the outside world.
Want to live on this ship?
Visit the link in our bio to see how you can join.
๐ธ @tomdixonfilm
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #Darwin200 #TallShipVoyage #SailingAdventure #HistoricJourney #Circumnavigation #CharlesDarwin #ExploreTheWorld #JoinTheCrew #AdventureAwaits #SailingExperience
Embarking from Valparasio Harbour on Wednesday, we raised our sails, commencing our voyage to Callao spanning over 1,000 miles. ๐ Despite the challenging waves at the outset, we were fortunate to have the wind on our side, propelling us at speeds of up to 9.5 knots. โต๏ธ
#Darwin200 #Oosterschelde #Sailing #GlobalVoyage
๐ What is DARWIN200? Itโs an extraordinary endeavor encompassing three key elements:
โต๏ธA global expedition spanning two years aboard the Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde, retracing Charles Darwinโs historic voyage on the HMS Beagle. Thereโs a few spaces left to join the voyage.
๐ฌ Dive into engaging educational online events, โThe Worldโs Most Exciting Classroom,โ with 100 free weekly sessions connecting classrooms worldwide.
๐ Empowering 200 young conservation enthusiasts as Darwin Leaders globally, each spearheading their unique research projects centered around their port locations.
Join us to:
๐ Connect with like-minded enthusiasts and embark on this captivating journey.
๐ธ Enjoy beautiful content from all around the world!
๐ฑ Delve into fascinating research projects and beyond.
And much more.
Ready to embark on a voyage of discovery? Click the link in our bio or visit www.darwin200.com to learn more about our DARWIN200 project.
#Darwin200 #oosterschelde #ExploreEvolve #nature #expedition #globalvoyage #changetheworld
๐ Species Spotlight: Elephant Seals ๐
Meet the giants of the ocean, Elephant Seals! These remarkable marine mammals are true marvels of nature.
Fascinating Facts!
โข Elephant Seals get their name from the trunk-like proboscis males develop during breeding season. ๐
โข They are the worldโs largest seals, with males weighing up to a whopping 8,800 pounds! ๐ช
โข These seals can hold their breath for an astonishing 100 minutes, diving to depths of 5,000 feet in search of food. ๐ฆ
โข Elephant Seals hold the record for the deepest dive among marine mammals. ๐
โข During breeding season, males engage in fierce battles for dominance, while females give birth to adorable pups.
โข They undertake epic migrations, traveling thousands of miles each year. ๐
Letโs continue to admire and protect these majestic giants of the sea! ๐๐
๐ธ @rhodri_hall
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #marinemammals #marinelife #SpeciesSpotlight #ElephantSeals #MarineConservation
๐ Join us TOMORROW for this weeks World`s Most Exciting Classroom episode! ๐
๐๏ธ Date: Thursday, 14th March
๐ Time: 2pm UK time / 9am Eastern time
๐ Tune in via the link in our bio.
Here`s what`s in store;
๐ข Live uplink from our sail from Valparasio, Chile to Callao, Peru!
๐ Special lesson with the National Marine Aquarium from Plymouth, UK.
๐ข Insights from Darwin Leader Blandine Thommerel about sea turtle conservation in Uruguay.
Share the word and join us on this free online educational experience! ๐ See you there!
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #ExcitingClassroom #Education #adventureawaits
๐ฟ Meet Avery and Camila, our Valparaรญso Darwin Leaders! ๐ฟ They`re fully engaged in their research projects. Camila is delving into whether visitors impact the resilience of the urban wetland in Mirasol de Algarrobo. Meanwhile, Avery`s focus is on the influence of feral dogs on urban wildlife. Stay tuned for updates on their findings!
@dutchtallship
#DarwinLeaders #NatureConservation #darwin200 #oosterschelde #nature #researchprojects #Valparaรญso
๐ Species Spotlight: Golden Lion Tamarin ๐
We were lucky enough to meet the captivating Golden Lion Tamarin in Rio.
Native to the lush Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil, these remarkable primates are known for their striking golden coats and distinctive manes, resembling that of a lion. But donโt let their small size fool you โ these tamarins are full of energy and agility!
Here are some fascinating facts about them:
๐ They primarily feed on fruits, insects, and small vertebrates, displaying incredible dexterity as they navigate through the forest canopy in search of food.
๐ Golden Lion Tamarins are highly social animals, living in family groups of up to eight individuals, led by a dominant breeding pair.
๐ Sadly, habitat loss due to deforestation and fragmentation has led to a significant decline in their population, making them critically endangered.
However, conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and captive breeding programs, have been crucial in their preservation. ๐ณ๐
๐ธ @rhodri_hall
#darwin200 #oosterschelde #SpeciesSpotlight #GoldenLionTamarin #ConservationHeroes #monkey #animals #nature #conservation #globalvoyage
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