The Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation officially launched the Spirit of Shackleton, a pioneering 70-foot clipper race yacht reimagined as a floating classroom and mobile ocean lab.
The launch took place at Dún Laoghaire Plaza, with President of Ireland Catherine Connolly officiating the ceremony. The event marked a major milestone for the Foundation and the beginning of an ambitious international sailing and education programme designed to inspire the next generation of ocean leaders.
Named in honour of Sir Ernest Shackleton, the Spirit of Shackleton will travel across the Atlantic, Caribbean and Pacific Oceans, visiting ports around the world and delivering a structured programme focused on ocean health, STEM education, leadership development and the blue economy.
More than 350 young people are expected to take part directly in sailing and training voyages, with thousands more engaging internationally through digital learning and outreach. Participants will work alongside scientists, educators and maritime professionals, helping to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience at sea.
Speaking at the launch, Naomh McElhatton, Executive Director of the Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation, said:
“We are honoured to have the President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, officiate the launch of the Spirit of Shackleton. Our mission is that every young person who steps aboard gains an education that can equip them to further their interest in the overall health of the ocean on which we all rely. This is the first step in the realisation of a broader vision to position Ireland as a leader in ocean education, exploration and the development of the blue economy.”
The Spirit of Shackleton has been designed as a multi-functional learning environment, supporting youth development, marine research, blue technology and STEM education at sea. Each voyage will combine practical sailing with leadership, teamwork, resilience and environmental learning, reflecting the values associated with Shackleton’s legacy.
As part of the programme, funded bursary places will be made available for young people from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds through partnerships and donors, helping to ensure that access to the programme is not limited by circumstance.
The launch represents a significant step forward for the Atlantic Shackleton Global Foundation’s mission to carry the pioneering spirit of Shackleton into the 21st century through exploration, education and ocean stewardship.
For more email: naomh@atlanticshackleton.org
