The renowned Research Vessel Heraclitus was built by the Institute of Ecotechnics (USA)* in 1975. She has had incredible voyages that have raised standards for oceanic expeditions over the past 40+ years. The ship has sailed globally reaching over 270,000 nautical miles in every sea in the world, except the Arctic. This includes 3,700 km up the Amazon River.
Once the ship is back to sea, the Ecotechnic team are dedicating the ship as a platform for critical ocean research in an effort to report on and help mitigate the climate crisis.
The current raise of $175,000 in funds will help us to sealing the ship and get it back into the water.
*The heraclitus is owned and operated by Ecotechnics Maritime U.K.
The Research Vessel Heraclitus is dry-docked in Roses, Spain launching in May 2024.
Over the last decade, the Heraclitus has had its hull completely rebuilt down to the keel (the bottom of the boat) after its 40+ years of expeditions. The interior, exterior, and mechanics have been completely upgraded to maintain its durability, dexterity, and improve its tools for research performance.
During the Covid pandemic, building was halted due to lessened ability to work and lack of materials.
The new ferrocement hull has been rebuilt and we are now almost to the finish line! We are only needing $175,00 that will be applied to sealing the Heraclitus.
With these minimal funds, the ocean will be sealed and waterproof once more. Upon completion, it will be able to go onto its next ventures in Colombia: Cartagena, Santa Marta, Baranquilla and navigating the Magdalena River.
Contact chloe@ecotechnics.edu for questions
“The ocean’s decline is an existential threat to us all… every second breath we take comes from the oxygen created by phytoplankton and other marine plants. The decline… [has] dire consequences for the future of many marine and terrestrial species, including humankind.”
– Peter Thomson, UN Special Envoy for The Oceans
We are currently in a global climate emergency. The ocean biome is facing the destructive impacts of multiple planetary crises, with rising temperatures and sea levels impacting marine flora and fauna, acidification of water and major meteorological consequences to rapidly changing marine environments. We need immediate solutions that help mitigate these impacts on people and the planet to ensure our survival.
The sea is the front line for research, monitoring, and documenting the planet’s changes. We can and must develop effective and inspired solutions to these urgent problems through innovative and targeted oceanic studies.
The Heraclitus is one of the most unique research vessels for accessing remote areas and engaging with local cultures. The ship will be outfitted with state-of-the-art data collection instruments, host seamanship training programs, and citizen science action.
Educational programs are an essential piece of the ongoing expeditions.
Programs will include:
• Documenting cultural diaspora
• Facilitating onsite and virtual classrooms
• Hosting guest lecturers and symposiums
Institute of Ecotechnics: U.K. Educational Charity, Central Register of Charities (No. 1081259)
24 Old Gloucester St.; London, WC1N 3AL. UK
or
Institute of Ecotechnics: U.S.A. 501(c)(3) Not-for-profit Organization (No. 74-3177755)
1 Bluebird Ct; Santa Fe, New Mexico 87508 USA
Captain Claus Tober using a sextant to navigate.