On 1 July, the Institut océanographique de Monaco officially launched its “Advocacy & Science Expedition to Greenland,” bringing together scientific research, environmental advocacy and international cooperation in one of the world’s most fragile polar regions.
Leading the expedition are Their Serene Highnesses Prince Albert II and Princess Charlène of Monaco, reaffirming the Principality’s long-standing commitment to ocean conservation and polar science.
Before continuing towards Greenland, the expedition made a symbolic stop off Iceland’s west coast to pay tribute to the legendary French polar explorer Captain Jean-Baptiste Charcot, whose research vessel Pourquoi-Pas? was lost in the area ninety years ago.
The ceremony brought together Prince Albert II, Princess Charlène, former President of Iceland Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, and Anne Manipoud-Charcot, the explorer’s great-granddaughter, highlighting the enduring importance of scientific exploration, international friendship and the protection of the oceans.
The tribute also celebrated the historic relationship between Captain Charcot and Prince Albert I of Monaco, two pioneers united by a shared passion for oceanography and scientific discovery. Their correspondence, preserved by the Oceanographic Institute of Monaco, reflects a deep mutual admiration that continues to inspire Monaco’s leadership in marine science today.
Speaking through the symbolism of the ceremony, the expedition reinforced that remembering great explorers is not simply about honouring the past, but about drawing inspiration to address today’s global environmental challenges.
As the expedition continues towards Greenland, it carries forward more than a century of Monaco’s commitment to scientific research, ocean conservation and international collaboration in support of the world’s polar environments.
