Sailor Matt Rutherford is at the helm of a sailboat, aiming to become the first person to circumnavigate the Arctic Circle alone. This journey promises to be perilous, as Rutherford navigates a 10,000 nautical mile course through the Arctic Ocean, starting far from his home port of Annapolis, Maryland.
The Risks of Arctic Sailing
Rutherford reveals the risks, stating that even the act of sleeping poses a danger. “If you hit the ice, you essentially die,” he explained. The voyage requires constant vigilance to avoid disaster, as he traverses from the North Atlantic to the Russian Arctic coast and the Northwest Passage in Canada.
“It’s going to get dark soon,” he stated via his Starlink connection while sailing in the Barents Sea. He poses a significant question: “How do you see the ice in the dark?”
Fortunately, his boat is equipped with radar to detect large ice chunks and thermal binoculars to spot smaller ones, along with a life raft for emergencies. However, time is crucial. Prolonged travel could mean getting trapped by the freezing pack ice in fall.
Motivations Behind the Journey
Despite the dangers, Rutherford remains determined. His voyage, beginning June 25 on Greenland’s western coast, stems from a passion for exploration and serves as a fundraiser for his climate science nonprofit, the Ocean Research Project. Normally focused on studying glaciers in Greenland, the current lack of funding necessitates this alternative venture.
“Because there’s no funding … I’m doing a little side trip,” Rutherford remarked, using this expedition to stimulate interest and attract donors for his arctic research group, whose vessel needs repairs.
Climate Change Impact
Climate change has paradoxically made such a journey more feasible. According to the National Snow and Ice Data Center, Arctic sea ice has reduced by a third since the early 1980s. However, Rutherford points out, significant ice remains, particularly above Alaska and near eastern Siberia, which could jeopardize his progress.
Navigating International Waters
Recently, Rutherford sailed past Norway and Sweden, entering Russian-controlled waters this weekend. Navigating these waters involves obtaining a Russian government permit and daily coordination with Moscow. Additionally, he must inform Russia’s FSB if he approaches the shore.
“You better believe I’m going to be doing that on time,” Rutherford asserted, acknowledging the necessity of strict adherence to these protocols.
Starlink service may cease within Russian waters, cutting off most communication. Yet Rutherford embraces the uncertainty: “Look, this wouldn’t be an adventure if we knew the ending.” For now, weather forecasts appear favorable, suggesting a brief period of rest is in store.