Local conservationists join replica of Darwin's HMS Beagle as voyage begins
A replica of Darwin’s HMS Beagle sailing ship leaves Plymouth this morning
Last updated 15th Aug 2023
After drawing huge crowds over the past few days, a replica of Charles Darwin’s HMS Beagle sailing ship will finally leave Plymouth this morning.
It’ll follow the round-the-world trip Darwin made 200 years ago, which also started in Plymouth. His experiences and observations on board helped him develop the theory of evolution through natural selection.
The two-year, 40,000 nautical mile, trip will look at what's happened to some of the plants and animals documented by Darwin in the past two centuries - and try to find solutions to help reduce any declines.
Around 200 18-25 year olds who are promising leaders in their fields - including some from Devon - will spend time on board at ports carrying out research projects with local conservationists.
A spokesperson for Darwin 200 said: "Oosterschelde is a three mast tall ship, and one of the world's finest, fully restored historic tall ships and the largest sailing vessel ever to be restored in the Netherlands.
"She is registered by the Dutch Government as a monument of great cultural and historical value.
"Darwin was only 22 years of age when he set sail on the life-changing journey, famously stating that it was by far the most important event in his life; in fact, it would determine the course of his entire career.
"The aim of the DARWIN200 Global Voyage is to create a similarly transformative experience for 200 of the world's brightest young environmentalists, who have the potential to become the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and conservation leaders of tomorrow and the catalysts that will change the future of planet Earth for the better.
"A decade in the making, the DARWIN200 project centres on inspiring a new wave of exceptional environmental leaders by training and empowering some of the world’s top young (from 18 to 25 years of age) conservationists.
"As “Darwin Leaders”, these young people are being selected based on their accomplishments aimed at making the world a better place. These 200 Darwin Leaders are the inspiration behind the project’s name.
"Over the past 30 years Oosterschelde has welcomed thousands of sailors and adventure seekers on board including royalty, politicians, presidents and pop stars, even once hosting a birthday party for Sir Tom Jones."