Monty Halls Seeks Marine Partners for 2027 Coastal Legacy Voyage

A coastal expedition with an industry invitation

Broadcaster and marine biologist Monty Halls is inviting companies across the marine industry to support a planned circumnavigation of Britain's coastline beginning in spring 2027. The multi-year Coastal Legacy Expedition will use a specially equipped 34-foot ketch named SOBEK and visit 49 ports and harbours.

British Marine's September announcement seeks partners for travel, logistics, education and film production, rather than reporting a voyage already completed. Although the sailing vessel itself is below superyacht length, the collaboration opportunity extends to marine businesses and service providers across the wider supply chain.

Four indicators of coastal health

The project centres on its Big Blue Bag, a citizen-science system designed for schools, clubs and local ocean advocates. Participants are to record sea-surface temperature, microplastics, coastal debris and seabird populations, with information uploaded through an app.

The aim is to build a coast-wide sampling network while helping individual communities remain involved after the yacht has moved on. The release describes the intended method and reach, and does not yet present results from the future expedition.

A route across four nations

The planned route takes in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland, with local calls intended to connect sailing clubs, community organisations and schools. Halls and the team also plan a return to participating communities in 2028 to share findings and recognise local contributions.

The format combines seagoing travel with lasting activity ashore, rather than using a circumnavigation simply as a backdrop for media coverage. Regular digital updates and a documentary are also part of the proposed programme.

Where industry support enters

The organisers are looking for a limited group of partners for the voyage, Big Blue Bag distribution and associated production work. Suppliers and companies interested in a coastal-education project can examine the specific proposal before committing financial or in-kind resources.

For the superyacht sector, the story illustrates one route for technical, logistics and service organisations to participate in local marine stewardship beyond their own vessels. British Marine's announcement remains the primary source for the project scope and partnership invitation.