Ella Hibbert, a 28-year-old yachtmaster and daughter of a Gulf War veteran, is set to embark on an unprecedented challenge – the first solo circumnavigation of the Arctic Circle. She plans to sail her 38ft boat, Yeva, 10,000 miles alone over five months, navigating the shrinking ice surrounding the North Pole. This daring expedition will see her face formidable obstacles, including icebergs, polar bears, and 20ft ocean waves as she travels through the Northwest and Northeast Passages of the Arctic Ocean.
Prepared with extensive training in sailing skills, firearms, and medical procedures, Ella is determined to raise awareness about the impact of climate change on the Arctic ecosystem. Her journey is not only a personal dream but also a mission to highlight the delicate balance that exists in this remote region. By showcasing the interconnectedness of ecosystems and human activities, she hopes to inspire others to take action to protect the Arctic and mitigate the effects of global warming.
With her experience in sailing and a deep passion for the sea instilled at a young age, Ella’s journey represents a culmination of years of preparation and dedication. As she sets off on this historic solo voyage, she aims to shed light on the critical importance of preserving the Arctic for future generations.
“I was drawn back to sailing by the natural decline, seeking a deeper connection with the oceans,” she explains. At the age of 25, she achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the second youngest female yachtmaster instructor recognized by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA). Years later, she embarked on a daring plan to sail the Arctic, acquiring Yeva, a 46-year-old steel-hulled vessel built for navigating ice-strewn seas, for £20,000—a vessel now valued at £50,000.
Since December 2022, she has meticulously refurbished Yeva, refurbishing its engine, rigging, and cabins, and spending every night aboard except for a brief period in dry dock. Backed by 22 sponsors and supported by the Scientific Exploration Society, a charity focused on exploration and conservation, her preparations have been extensive and detailed. This includes stocking up on an eight-month supply of freeze-dried meals and equipping herself with a drone to scan for icebergs.
Despite her thorough planning, there have been challenges along the way. Obtaining Russian visa approval was a critical milestone, enabling her to navigate within their coastal territorial waters and seek refuge during storms. Reflecting on the process, she acknowledges that such permissions were essential for her journey. A trial run in the Barents Sea last summer highlighted the dangers of the Arctic waters, with her encountering steering failure amidst 20-foot waves. She managed to navigate back to port for repairs using an emergency steering system.
One of the most significant hurdles she anticipates during the anticipated five-month expedition is sleep deprivation. Unlike global circumnavigators who can rest in open waters, Ella’s journey will largely be coastal, requiring her to anchor frequently for short periods of rest. The looming threats of icebergs, sea ice, and extreme cold, with temperatures plunging to minus 30C, add layers of complexity to her voyage. Equipped with tools like ice picks and snow shovels, she remains vigilant in mitigating risks that could jeopardize her vessel.
Ella openly shares that her parents, especially her father and mother, harbor concerns about her safety. Despite the apprehension, they understand her determination once she sets her mind on a goal. Her father stands ready to provide weather forecasts and ice routing support should communication channels falter. Throughout the expedition, Yeva will collect valuable data on the Arctic seabed for the International SeaKeepers Society, with plans to auction the vessel upon her return to support Polar Bears International and the Ocean Conservancy.
When asked about fear, Ella confidently responds, “No.”
I haven’t left yet, but when I do, it will be a poignant moment. I explain to everyone that the ice and weather conditions are beyond my control, but what I have managed to control is running a campaign smoothly without any setbacks, leading to a successful expedition that will embark in less than two weeks. Discover exceptional British journalism with The Telegraph. Enjoy a complimentary 1-month trial with full access to our acclaimed website, exclusive app, special offers, and more to expand your horizons.
