EAST GREENLAND EXPEDITION 2024

In July and August 2024, I will lead the first part of an unprecedented expedition to East Greenland to commence filming the first-ever documentary about the 1930 British Arctic Air Expedition (BAARE). kayak.

About the Expedition:

Our 2024/5 expeditions are designed as a series of adventurous journeys by boat, kayak, dog team, and aircraft. We aim to revisit numerous significant locations mentioned in the various written accounts and journals of BAARE members. By experiencing these places firsthand—the sights, smells, and environment—we hope to capture the essence of what those young explorers marveled at in 1930.

Using a combination of archival footage and images along with our contemporary recordings, we seek to create a narrative that perpetuates the legacy of inspiration left by these early adventurers for future generations.

Journey Details:

In our 2024 expedition, we will navigate between settlements using small boats, echoing BAARE’s use of adapted whaleboats from the ship "Quest." Our journey will employ two specially designed 5.20m portable catamarans, developed for this expedition. These versatile vessels can be sailed, rowed, paddled, and motorized with small outboards.

In addition to these travels, we will evaluate the logistics necessary for our 2025 return, which will include a 1927 DH Moth aircraft—similar to the two aircraft central to BAARE’s survey efforts in East Greenland.

Supporting Partners:

MiniCat: Our expedition boats are sponsored by MiniCat, who have developed a new “Explorer” catamaran specifically for this venture. This innovation not only supports our journey but also provides a new platform for other adventurers to expand their exploration horizons. Learn more about these boats on the MiniCat Arctic page on this website.
Nordiclife UK: Premier expedition outfitters specializing in polar and high-latitude equipment, ensuring our team is equipped for the harsh conditions of the Arctic.
Kokatat US: Renowned for manufacturing the best drysuits on the market, crucial for our safety and comfort in the frigid waters of East Greenland.
Valley Kayaks UK: Producers of the finest sea kayaks, providing us with top-tier equipment for our kayaking endeavors.

For more information and regular updates during the expedition, please visit our dedicated website: www.arcticairexpedition.com.

The British Arctic Air Route Expedition 1930-2024

“The White Kayak”

“Gino (Henry George) Watkins (1907-1932), outstanding British figure
and inspiration of the youthful between-wars school of explorers, had led
four northern expeditions by the age of 25 years. ”