The “Around Africa Expedition,” launched on January 30, continues to make waves as OceanX and OceanQuest unveil a series of groundbreaking deep-sea discoveries during its historic stop in Cape Town.
This marks the first time the state-of-the-art research vessel, OceanXplorer, has arrived in South Africa, docking at the V&A Waterfront Harbour, and offering the perfect platform to share the expedition’s extraordinary findings.
Since embarking on the journey from Moroni, Comoros, the expedition has mapped uncharted ecosystems and gathered vital biodiversity data across Africa’s oceans. One of the most significant breakthroughs has been the exploration of a previously known but unexplored seamount south of Walter’s Shoal along the Madagascar Ridge.
Using a Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), the team conducted a visual survey revealing a stunning deep-sea ecosystem filled with corals, sponges, and deep-sea species never seen in this region before.
Vincent Pieribone, Co-CEO and Chief Science Officer at OceanX, commented on the expedition’s progress: “Arriving in Cape Town marks a pivotal moment for the Around Africa Expedition. This city, rich in maritime heritage and ocean science dedication, provides an ideal backdrop for showcasing our discoveries and forging partnerships with Africa’s leading marine scientists.
“Our mission goes beyond exploration; we aim to inspire the next generation of ocean leaders, foster meaningful collaborations, and contribute valuable data for global marine conservation.”
Remarkable Scientific Discoveries
The journey to Cape Town has been marked by extraordinary scientific work, starting with hydroacoustic mapping in Madagascar’s Exclusive Economic Zone. The team used sonar technology to create detailed images of the ocean floor, providing invaluable insights into the underwater landscape.
The first full dive at Walter’s Shoal uncovered fascinating geological formations and abundant marine biodiversity. Video surveys documented carbonate pebbles, deep-sea corals, and species like Brisingid sea stars, chimaeras, dumbo octopuses, and moray eels nestled within the rocks. The sightings of Brisingid sea stars, known to be deep-sea ecosystem indicators, were a significant highlight. Additionally, two kitefin sharks were spotted during another dive, thrilling the research team.
South African marine scientist Lara Atkinson, aboard OceanXplorer, shared her excitement: “Descending 500 meters into the deep and seeing the seafloor unfold was surreal—like exploring an underwater fynbos landscape. Watching a large octopus play with the submersible’s lasers was a fascinating display of intelligence.”
Atkinson also highlighted the inspiring role of early-career researchers from six African countries who joined the expedition, many of whom had never ventured beyond coastal waters. “It’s been fulfilling to see them engage with deep-sea science firsthand. These researchers are returning to their home countries not only as scientists but as ambassadors for ocean exploration and conservation,” she added.
Promoting Ocean Research and Protection
Beyond its scientific aims, the Around Africa Expedition is committed to building research capacity and fostering knowledge exchange across the continent.
OceanX and OceanQuest are collaborating with key local institutions such as the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), the National Research Foundation – South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, and the University of Cape Town to advance ocean research and conservation efforts. African scientists have been integral to the expedition, receiving hands-on training and contributing to groundbreaking research aboard OceanXplorer.
As part of its South African engagement, OceanX partnered with the French Embassy to host a Blue Talks event on February 25, aboard OceanXplorer. The high-level discussion brought together policymakers, scientists, and industry leaders to address ocean protection and sustainable blue economy initiatives ahead of the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC III) in June. The event underscored Africa’s vital role in global marine conservation and aimed to secure regional commitments to present at the UNOC summit in Nice, France.
D.R. Martin Visbeck, CEO of OceanQuest, emphasised the significance of the expedition’s work: “Africa’s oceans hold untapped scientific potential. Our collaborations are designed to enhance scientific understanding and create a lasting framework for ocean research across the continent. By empowering African scientists, we are helping to lead the next generation of marine discovery and conservation.”
Inspiring the Next Generation of Ocean Leaders
A crucial component of the Around Africa Expedition is its focus on training and equipping the next generation of ocean leaders. In Cape Town, OceanX and OceanQuest hosted guided tours of OceanXplorer for local students, educators, and researchers, providing hands-on exposure to marine science and ocean storytelling.
The next group of 14 Young Explorers, a program designed to cultivate emerging talent in ocean-related fields, will set sail from Cape Town for a multi-day at-sea educational experience.
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