Oceanwide for the environment: from adventure to action
Oceanwide Expeditions is a company operating in the polar cruise sector, also known for its initiatives aimed at promoting the conservation of the Arctic environment. Among the most significant activities it offers is the beach clean-up in Spitsbergen, an essential operation to preserve the fragile ecosystem of the archipelago and reduce the impact of marine pollution in one of the most remote regions on the planet.
Spitsbergen, the main island of the Svalbard archipelago, is characterized by spectacular landscapes and unique wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, Svalbard reindeer, and Arctic foxes. However, even in such a remote area, plastic and other waste carried by ocean currents accumulate along the coasts, endangering local biodiversity.
Microplastics, in particular, pose a silent and often invisible threat, as they are ingested by marine organisms, entering the food chain and causing unpredictable consequences for ecosystems.
mv_Plancius by Oceanwide Expeditions
Saint Helena panorama
The expeditions organized by Oceanwide Expeditions offer travelers not only the chance to explore these extraordinary places but also to actively contribute to their protection through concrete and impactful actions.
The integration of beach clean-up activities into cruises allows participants to better understand the issue of marine pollution and to take an active role in its mitigation. Armed with bags and gloves, travelers collect various types of debris, from plastic fragments to abandoned fishing nets, thus preventing these harmful materials from being ingested by animals or compromising natural habitats.
The phenomenon of “ghost nets” is particularly harmful: fishing nets that are lost or abandoned continue to trap fish and marine mammals, causing unnecessary suffering and death. The action of volunteers helps remove these threats and reduce the negative impact on the surrounding environment.
Beyond the practical aspect, these initiatives also carry strong educational value. Many cruise participants are not fully aware of how far-reaching marine pollution has become, even in the planet’s most isolated areas. Seeing first-hand beaches covered in debris in a seemingly pristine place like Spitsbergen is a perspective-shifting experience that raises awareness of the need to adopt more sustainable behaviors in daily life.
Flora and fauna of St Helena
Sooty Tern, Ascension Island
Among the cruises that include this important activity, the North Spitsbergen Basecamp journey stands out—an experience combining guided excursions, kayaking, photo workshops, and beach clean-up sessions. Travelers can fully immerse themselves in the Arctic nature, admiring glaciers and wildlife while contributing to environmental preservation.
The “Basecamp” concept is particularly interesting, as it allows participants to explore the region with a certain degree of flexibility, choosing among various outdoor activities, including birdwatching, fjord navigation, and exploring historical sites related to early Arctic explorations.
Another significant expedition is East Spitsbergen: the realm of the polar bear, an itinerary that takes guests along the eastern coast of the island, one of the areas with the highest concentration of polar bears. This cruise is especially suitable for wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers numerous opportunities to spot these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.
In addition to wildlife observation, the program includes long hikes and beach clean-up sessions, offering an even more immersive and conscious experience. Walking through Arctic valleys, crossing silent tundras, and observing wildlife up close are moments that deliver unique emotions and a deep connection with nature.
Cape Verde_local market 2
Cape Verde_local market
Taking part in a cruise with Oceanwide Expeditions means not only exploring breathtaking landscapes and living an adventure in the Arctic, but also becoming a protagonist of environmental conservation. Responsible tourism is not just a trend, but a necessity to ensure that extraordinary places like Spitsbergen can be preserved for future generations.
These experiences demonstrate that travel can be a means to raise awareness, educate, and inspire people to take care of our planet. Returning home with the awareness of having made a positive impact is an invaluable added value that makes these cruises a unique opportunity for those who wish to make a difference in the world.
Don’t miss further updates, news, and reviews about Oceanwide Expedition on our website Cruising Journal.
