Sailing for Ocean Science: James Ketchell’s Journey Continues
Beyondly and NOC: Defining the true impact of ocean plastics (Phase 2)
Record-breaking adventurer and National Oceanography Centre (NOC) ambassador, James Ketchell, is making significant progress on his remarkable 30,000 nautical mile sailing journey around the world. On his quest to become the first person to circumnavigate the planet by land, air and sea, James has been collecting valuable water samples from across the globe. The samples will be returned to NOC and analysed by their leading team of researchers as part of their 5-year plastic project, providing vital insight into marine pollution and the impact of microplastics on our oceans.
Beyondly are proud to fund NOC’s plastic project, through our exciting 5-year partnership; helping to grow insight and awareness of the true impact plastics have on the ocean, to drive change during a pivotal time for our planet and climate.
Setting sail from Gosport in July 2025, James’ expedition will take nearly 9 months to complete, before he returns to the UK in summer 2026. James’ expedition has taken him to Lanzarote, Cape Town, and Tasmania so far; but the spectacular mission has not come without its challenges, as he has battled challenging weather conditions and mechanical setbacks along the way.
During his stop at Cape Town, James collected an Argo float, in which he successfully deployed in the Indian Ocean on behalf of NOC in December. The Argo float is just one of a network of floats distributed around the world, and is designed to collect live ocean data on water temperature and salinity. Data from the float James deployed in December is already being transmitted back to researchers, providing crucial information on ocean health and forecasting.
James’ voyage has also seen him deliver workshops at several schools across the world, sharing his story to inspire and educate the next generation. James is passionate about inspiring young people and hopes his journey will spread awareness on the importance of the ocean and the part we all play in protecting it.
After departing from Tasmania on 12th January 2026, James is currently on the longest leg of his journey, sailing 7,000 nautical miles across the South Pacific Ocean to his next stop, Punta Del Este in Uruguay.
The inspiring expedition is a testament to James’ unwavering dedication and passion, and his contribution to oceanography will continue to help us gain a deeper understanding of our oceans and the crucial role it has on society and our planet. We wish him the best of luck as he continues his journey and will be providing further updates as he completes the final legs of his voyage. You can find more information about James’ journey, the impact, and his tracking page here.
