The Norwegian Research Ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl Visits Curaçao

From today, November 4th, till November 8th, the Statsraad Lehmkuhl will be anchored in Curaçao’s harbor. This is a 107-year-old Norwegian research ship and it set sail from Norway in August on a 55.000 nautical mile tour that will take it to 36 different ports around the world, including that of our own Sint Anna Bay. In April of 2023, it will return to Norway.

This ship is tasked with doing scientific studies in various oceanic territories in order to provide fresh data on topics such as climate change, pollution and contamination, microplastic issues, and ocean acidification. From an international viewpoint, the findings of this body of research are meant to create and raise awareness about the importance of sustainable ocean use. Statsraad Lehmkuhl is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of scientists from many sectors to carry out these research operations. These researchers collect physical, chemical, and biological data from our oceans on a regular basis.

The team of scientists will conduct scientific research in our territorial waters during the vessel’s visit to Curaçao. But there will also be time for them to unwind and enjoy our island’s rich culture. And, of course, numerous opportunities for exchanges between these scientists and Curaçao’s own scientific institutions will be created, enriching knowledge on the island in terms of future scientific practices and yet-to-be-developed policies. The findings of Statsraad Lehmkuhl’s research in our waters will contribute to the exchange of data and scientific knowledge on a national and international scale.

The findings of these studies will benefit a variety of local institutions and organizations, such as Carmabi. One week after Statsraad Lehmkuhl’s visit, the Dutch king and queen, Willem Alexander and Máxima, will visit Norway, where the results of the ship’s research in Curaçao will be among the topics discussed.

The arrival of the Statsraad Lehmkuhl has been coordinated by the Curaçao government in collaboration with the Blue Ribbon Committee, which is in charge of managing the Curaçaoan seas, the Climate Change Committee Curaçao, and the Curaçao Sustainability Coalition.

The ship arrived on the island this morning at approximately 10:00 a.m. and will be anchored at Mathey Wharf. The crew will pay courtesy visits to the Curaçao government, Carmabi sites, and the famed Substation of Sea Aquarium Park during their stay. The ship will be open for public visits from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 6th. COVID-19 protocols will be maintained.