It's anchors away for a group of teens from Germany. They will spend a semester crossing the Atlantic - twice - not just to sail but to learn about the environment and ocean pollution.
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Global Ideas - Ocean College
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A group of German teenagers have set sail on the trip of a lifetime. The 34 youngsters, aged between 15 to 18, get to spend the next six months on a boat, traveling from Europe to the Americas and back while learning not only about the many countries they visit along the way, but about the environmental issues of our day, working on research projects related to microplastic and climate change.
As they steer their way through the waves, we will hear from them about their experiences of living in cramped conditions, continuing with their regular studies when their stomachs are churning, and learning to sail. We will also find out how their perception of our environment changes as they come face to face with the debris of contemporary society. They have many challenges and adventures ahead, the first of which was saying good-bye to their families and settling in onboard.
A school sets sail
At Ocean College, kids and teenagers travel across the pond on a sailing ship. It's a fun experience that also prepares them for life and shows them why nature and the environment are important.
Image: Ocean College
Farewell
Departure from the harbor in Amsterdam. From here, the students set out on a journey that will take them across the pond. It's not just about sailing, but focuses on research about microplastics in the sea and having a regular school day.
Image: Ocean College
On the way
On board, it's about the curriculum, food requests and how to handle the ship's engine. And when the sun goes down, it's gets pretty cool, too.
Image: Ocean College
Dry training
This is what it looks like when a helmsman explains the different kinds of sails to students — including chalk drawings on the ground.
What is swimming in the sea?
Things are not always as they seem: the sea is full of garbage. Not only microplastics — sometimes even an old fridge floats by. The crew then hoists the e-waste on board to dispose of it professionally in the next port.
The crew
Teachers, organizers, scientists - the day before the big trip.
