Energy Observer’s Journey to Green Horizons Continues with a Brazilian Sojourn.
The Energy Observer, a pivotal vessel in the energy transition, docks in Fortaleza, Brazil, for its 83rd global stopover from November 16 to 24. This visit marks the successful completion of the ship’s second transatlantic journey and its continued voyage around the world.
This Latin American halt is animated by the active participation of Energy Observer’s associates and the creation of unique film content spotlighting Brazil’s strides in energy transition. The nation, a significant global energy consumer, meets nearly half of its energy demands with renewables, boasting one of the world’s most diverse and low-carbon energy matrices.
As a powerhouse in bioenergy and a pioneer in next-gen biofuels critical for Sustainable Aviation Fuels, Brazil positions the state of Ceará and the city of Fortaleza as central to wind energy, with 80% of Brazilian wind farms nestled in the Northeast.
This Brazilian chapter, hosted by Qair, an official partner of the Odyssey, and supported by collaborators including the Accor Group, Air Liquide, Toyota, the French Embassy in Brazil, and the French Consulate in Recife, promises a rich tapestry of exchanges on national energy challenges augmented by extraordinary audiovisual documentation.
Victorien Erussard, President, Captain, and Founder of Energy Observer, reflects on the Odyssey’s sixth year, which commenced in Africa and showcased the vessel’s capabilities and exhibition village to numerous visitors in Cape Town before sailing towards Namibia’s budding renewable and green hydrogen sectors. The memorable sojourn in Walvis Bay segued into the prelude of the second significant oceanic passage to Brazil.
The crew’s interlude on Saint Helena offered a poignant historical connection and engagements with the local populace and government, eager to reach 80% renewables in their energy mix by 2027-2028. Energy Observer sailed 3,385 nautical miles across the Atlantic, supported by favorable winds and currents, achieving an exceptional sailing speed and demonstrating the viability of renewable energies even on the high seas.
The transatlantic expedition reinforced the vessel’s commitment to a sustainable future, validating the full potential of renewable energies and maintaining an unwavering course toward environmental stewardship.
Transatlantic Journey by the Numbers:
- Distance covered: 3,385 nautical miles
- Duration: 23 days
- Average speed: 6.1 knots
- Energy production mix: 30% photovoltaic, 67% wind propulsion savings, 3% hydrogen
Energy Observer, since setting sail in 2017, has navigated over 60,000 nautical miles, conducting 82 stopovers and visiting over 40 countries. As a floating laboratory for ecological innovation, the vessel tests and optimizes a range of zero-emission technologies, from hydrogen to solar and wind energy, with a goal to democratize clean energy solutions.
Details of the Fortaleza Stopover:
- Dates: November 16 to 24
- Location: Marina Park Hotel, Fortaleza
- Address: Av. Pres. Castelo Branco, 400 – Moura Brasil, Fortaleza – CE, 60312-060, Brazil
- Note: While the vessel will be docked visibly, it will not be open for public tours.
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