A ship arrives loaded – with marine scientists

– It was an amazing experience to sail a full-rigged ship and truly take part in setting sails, keeping watch, and steering – real team building! Thank you to Sørlandet and to everyone who contributed with engaging exhibitions and activities during the port visits. Special thanks to the Port of Gothenburg for their support and sponsorship of our event, says Mattias Sköld, researcher at SLU Aqua.

– The Western Sea faces many challenges that not everyone may be aware of. Science holds the knowledge, but it’s the people who hold the passion! Real change only becomes possible when we share that knowledge and engage society. This sailing voyage has shown, in a fun and inspiring way, that a sustainable future for the Western Sea is possible – if we act together and in time, says Johanna Bergman, environmental assessment analyst at SLU Aqua.

– Both fish stocks and habitats in the Skagerrak are in poor condition, and we need strong measures to restore a healthy and resilient ecosystem. This sailing voyage and the events we organized in ports around the Kattegat and Skagerrak have provided an opportunity for researchers, managers, and policymakers to build common ground and discuss possible solutions. Close cooperation between Sweden, Norway, and Denmark is absolutely essential for us to take the necessary actions, says Ulf Bergström, researcher at SLU Aqua.

– It was truly a great adventure, sailing for three days, living and working like sailors, and making new connections among the scientific community. It has been so much fun, even when dealing with sea sickness while surrounded by an angry sea. A once in a life time experience, say PhD students Claire Ract and Ilaria Perriu.

About the Skagerrak Voyage

The Skagerrak Voyage, taking place from June 9–22, was organized to raise awareness about the state of our coastal and marine environments – and to show that there is hope and solutions if we act in time. Through the journey and associated events, the researchers aim to inspire action and cross-border cooperation to ensure a sustainable future for the Western Sea.

The Skagerrak Voyage is an initiative by the University of Agder and the Institute of Marine Research in Norway. From June 9–22, events were held in six ports across Norway, Denmark, and Sweden.