One Ocean Expedition

Set Sail for the Future of the Arctic!

Memorial University, in partnership with UiT The Arctic University of Norway and UArctic, invites Memorial University students—and youth across the Canadian Membership—to embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Norwegian tall ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl as it sails through the Northwest Passage.

As part of the 2025 interdisciplinary Arctic Future Pathfinders credit course and the One Ocean Expedition, participants will explore the future of the Arctic through cutting-edge research, futures-thinking, and peer collaboration.

This immersive experience is designed primarily for Master’s and Doctoral students aspiring to become leaders in Arctic research, though undergraduate students are also welcome to apply.

Applicants from Northern regions and Indigenous communities are strongly encouraged to apply, with preference given to ensure diverse perspectives in Arctic research.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to shape the future of the Arctic!

About the Course

 

The Arctic Future Pathfinders course offers a one-of-a-kind educational experience, combining academic study with hands-on training aboard the Statsraad Lehmkuhl.

As part of the expedition, participants will engage in daily sailing routines, including sail setting, navigation, and watch duties; attend expert-led lectures and workshops; collaborate on research projects; and so much more! 

This immersive approach fosters teamwork, experiential learning, and problem-solving: key skills for tackling sustainability challenges in the Arctic.

The course is directly linked to Norway’s Arctic Ocean 2050 initiative and the upcoming International Polar Year (2032/33), preparing students and young academics to become the next generation of Arctic researchers and leaders.

 For more information, read our FAQ page.

About the Expedition

The starting point is Nuuk in Kalaallit Nunaat/Greenland August 5th, and the journey concludes in Anchorage in Alaska October 4th, with stops in Uqsuqtuuk/Gjøa Haven and Iqaluktuttiaq/Cambridge Bay in Canada.

There are two legs of the expedition available to students:

 Leg 1: Nuuk, Greenland to Cambridge Bay, Canada (Approx. August 5– August 29, 2025, with exact dates TBD)

Leg 2: Cambridge Bay, Canada to Anchorage, US (Approx. September 2 – October 4, 2025, with exact dates TBD)

Students will be asked to choose one leg of the expedition.

For more, read our FAQs page.

What's Required (And What to Expect)

Travel, food, and course participation costs will be covered, making this an incredible opportunity to embark on a fully funded Arctic expedition.

However, students are responsible for:
✔ Securing necessary visas and a valid passport
✔ Obtaining additional insurance
✔ Completing a medical examination with a certified seafarer’s doctor
✔ Bringing essential personal gear, including:

  • A sleeping bag and pillow
  • Warm, windproof clothing for cold deck watches
  • Sturdy sneakers and waterproof boots
  • A camera and binoculars
  • Toiletries, personal medications, and other necessities for the full journey

Life at Sea

Sailing aboard the Statsraad Lehmkuhl is an immersive experience that blends adventure, teamwork, and tradition. The ship runs on a strict routine, with students assigned to one of three watch groups, rotating through training, navigation, and ship duties.

Life on board includes:

  • Shared sleeping quarters and communal meals, fostering a close-knit crew
  • Limited water use—showers are brief!
  • Unpredictable internet and mobile access, often unavailable for long stretches
  • Seasickness is possible—be prepared!
  • Roughly 7 hours of sleep per night (adjusting to the rhythm of the ship)

Despite the challenges, this journey is an unforgettable chance to develop maritime skills, form lasting connections, and explore the Arctic aboard a legendary tall ship.

For more information, read our FAQs page!

Spots are Limited!

What to do Next:

  • An Information Session was held on March 12th that was mandatory for all applicants to attend. The recording of this session can be found here. If you were unable to attend the Information Session but would still like to apply, please reach out to Lisa.
  • The Application Form is now available. 
  • The Application Form requires
    • a Statement of Interest,
    • an up-to-date CV,
    • unofficial transcript,
    • A letter of reference sent directly to goabroad@mun.ca, and
    • a Work Sample (all saved and uploaded to the Form as PDFs).

Have Questions? Visit our FAQs page.

All of the items listed above are described in greater detail within the Application form, but reach out to Mandy with any questions.

Visas

Each participant is responsible for familiarizing themselves with the visa regulations of the countries involved and for obtaining the necessary documents.

Please view the websites below for more information:

 

A map of the One Ocean Expedition's 2025 route

 

 

Important Notice: 
Expedition participation is subject to securing necessary permits and approvals.
The university reserves the right to modify or cancel as needed.

Photo Gallery

The Statsraad Lehmkuhl
Living Arrangements
At Sea