Sail With Us

 

What we offer

A unique blend of research, engagement, and communication to advance science in a rapidly changing world.

Polarquest’s approach is truly unique, as we cover the entire research process—from collecting samples to communicating the final results. Our team includes top-level experts in research, science communication, citizen science, and organization and logistics. We operate a fleet of lightweight, low-cost sailing vessels skippered by experienced sailors with a genuine passion for the ocean and its sustainability.

A fleet for science

A Lightweight, Low-Cost, Sustainable Platform for Research

We have gathered a fleet of small, adaptable sailing vessels designed for research. Equipped with off-the-shelf and consumer-level instruments — including a fleet of drones and open-source, customizable technologies — we provide a flexible, cost-effective solution for scientific research and exploration.

Our expertise spans multiple research areas, including:

  • Microplastics sampling with Mantanet
  • Macroplastic 3D mapping using drones
  • Environmental DNA (e-DNA) sampling
  • 3D mapping of remote and unexplored areas with drones
  • Cosmic radiation data collection with lightweight portable detectors
  • Ground-truthing of satellite mapping
  • Seafloor mapping
  • Student supervision and training during expeditions
  • Logistics support for scientists in the field

Our fleet offers an agile and sustainable solution for conducting marine research in hard-to-reach areas, enabling real-time data collection and analysis.

 

 

 

 

 

Explore Our Fleet

SY Lady Magellan

SY Lady Magellan

🇳🇱 Netherlands

Boat type: Beluga 46, racer-cruiser’
Draft: Movable 1.20 -2.60
Hull: Composite
Navigation 2025: North Atlantic and West Mediterranean
Skipper/Owner: Paola Catapano

SY Durlindana

SY Durlindana

🇮🇹 Italy

Boat type: Ketch 70’
Draft: 3.10
Hull: Steel
Navigation 2025: Pacific Ocean
Skipper/Owner: Chicca and Andrea Pestarini

SY Nanuq

SY Nanuq

🇨🇭Switzerland

Boat type: Grand Integral 60’
Draft: Movable 1.45-2.40m
Hull: Aluminum
Navigation 2025: Arctic Ocean
Skipper/Owner: Peter Gallinelli

Citizen Science

Citizen Science Initiatives for Research and Awareness

Citizen Science projects engage people in scientific research, involving them in a broad range of activities to produce scientific knowledge, from sampling water and air to mapping natural phenomena. Citizen Science allows the collection and processing of data on a scale that would be impossible with traditional research methods. This is particularly relevant for monitoring environmental factors at the local and global level, as technologies like smartphones and personal computers open up innovative and effective methods and techniques. Above all, Citizen Science fosters public awareness and interest in scientific research, empowering communities to take ownership of the issues that often directly affect them and their communities.

At Polarquest we design and implement citizen science projects that engage citizen scientists on our fleet, along the coast, and beyond. At the same time, we communicate process and results, making scientific discovery accessible to all. By involving the public in data collection and outreach, we bridge the gap between cutting-edge science and global awareness. At Polarquest2018 we tracked plastic waste to the very edge of the Arctic’s permanent sea ice, raising awareness among non-Arctic communities about the far-reaching impact of plastic pollution. Citizen Scintists around the globe are ready to help you understand and save our ocean!

Science communication

Our international team of expert science writers, social media managers, video producers, and presenters is ready to communicate your research before, during, and after expeditions. We provide comprehensive support to amplify your scientific messages, ensuring they reach the right audience through engaging and accessible storytelling.

Our services include:

  • Press releases and news articles to highlight key findings
  • Video and documentary scripting for compelling storytelling
  • Production of videos for TV, social media, and online platforms
  • Website news pieces and digital content creation
  • Full communication campaigns and strategic consulting
  • Grant and pitch writing to secure support for communication activities

Our science communication experts specialise in a wide range of topics, including marine biology, environmental science, sustainability, climate change, plastic pollution, astrophysics, green sailing, and the history of expeditions. Whether you need a single press release or a full-scale media campaign, our team can help make your research accessible, engaging, and impactful.

“research is only as impactful as the people who hear and understand it.”

― 

Katarina Anthony of Polarquest

Events

Bringing Science Directly the Public, Anywhere in the World

We have high-level experience engaging audiences in marinas, yacht clubs, schools, conference centers, science museums, aquariums, and science festivals across multiple countries.

Custom Events & Sailing Tours
We can organize unique events to showcase your research or green business, turning our vessels into interactive platforms for public engagement.

Live Webinars & Virtual Events
We produce, script, and host live events, broadcasting from remote locations or iconic venues such as science museums, research centers, or classrooms. Our team facilitates interactive presentations to bring real-time science to global audiences.

Inspirational Speakers
Our expert speakers deliver engaging public lectures and talks at TEDx events, science festivals, corporate conventions, universities, and theaters. Whether inspiring students, professionals, or the general public, we connect science with storytelling to spark curiosity and action.

With our experience in science communication and public engagement, we help bring complex topics to life, making research accessible and inspiring for diverse audiences.

 

Example events

Premiere of Nanuq Documentary

Premiere of Nanuq Documentary

16 Dec 2020: First screening of Nanuq, An Arctic Journey from Past to Future on Mediaset/Focus Canale 32 – a new documentary on the Polarquest 2018 expedition.