"One Island, One Ocean" has transitioned from an environmental sailing adventure to feature documentary films, an exciting new book published in November 2011 and a traveling, interactive exhibit developed by David Thoreson. David also has developed dynamic presentations and would love to share the amazing story at a venue in your community. Please contact David to book a presentation today.

The Beginning:

Around the Americas was a clockwise circumnavigation of the North and South American continents, as though they were one gigantic island, beginning (May 2009) and ending (June 2010) in Seattle. The goal of the Around the Americas project was to utilize a unique sailing expedition to engage and educate citizens of North and South America about ocean-health issues, using science-driven education materials and activities.

Seattle’s Pacific Science Center and Newport's Sailors for the Sea launched the Around the Americas project (www.aroundtheamericas.org). The project was lead by philanthropist, David Rockefeller, and Captain, Mark Schrader.

In order to accomplish the Around the Americas mission, the 57-foot sailing vessel, Ocean Watch, made 51 port stops in 12 countries throughout her 13-month circumnavigation of the Americas. In each port of call, the crew of four, educator, and scientist interacted with members of the local community to build awareness about the precipitous changes occurring in our oceans and understand regional threats to the marine environment. A variety of local events and activities in each port helped facilitate these interactions.