Research vessel Tara to dock in Liverpool for climate science mission

This weekend, Liverpool will welcome the 36-metre research schooner Tara as she docks at the Royal Albert Dock as part of her global mission to study the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.

Operated by the Tara Ocean Foundation, the vessel is the only one of its kind—equipped with a state-of-the-art laboratory and built to withstand even the most extreme ocean conditions, including icy polar waters.

During her visit, the public will have the unique opportunity to tour the ship and learn firsthand about the groundbreaking scientific research conducted on board.

Professor Alessandro Tagliabue, an ocean scientist at the University of Liverpool and former chief scientist for Tara’s Antarctic ‘Mission Microbiomes’ expedition, said:

“I am delighted that Tara is coming to Liverpool, giving people the chance to explore this remarkable vessel and discover the vital ocean research she undertakes. I hope this inspires people of all ages to engage with ocean science and appreciate the critical role our oceans play in our climate.”

Tara will be moored at Canning Half Tide Dock in the Royal Albert Dock on Saturday, March 29.

Guided tours, lasting 30 minutes, will be available to book, with the ship’s crew on hand to share insights into life aboard and the scientific missions undertaken.

Canning Dock. Picture - Gareth Jones — Canning Dock. Picture – Gareth Jones

To reserve your spot, visit: Tara in Liverpool.

Tara is visiting Liverpool as part of her latest mission to raise support for marine protection in advance of the UN Oceans Conference this June in Nice.

Special Event: Antarctic Conservation and the 2030 Agenda

To mark Tara’s visit, the University of Liverpool and the Tara Ocean Foundation will co-host a special event titled “Towards the 2030 Agenda for Antarctic Conservation”which will focus on scientific cooperation in Antarctica.

The event will feature expert presentations, a roundtable discussion alongside the launch of a policy brief on conservation strategies.

Event Details: Tuesday, April 1, 16:00 – 19:00 The Spine

To register, visit: Towards the 2030 agenda for Antarctic conservation

Professor Tagliabue added:

“This event is incredibly timely, aligning with significant developments in ocean policy for 2025-2030. It provides the opportunity to engage in vital discussions on the future of ocean and Antarctic conservation. It will also support the newly launched Antarctic and Southern Ocean Coalition (ASOC) campaign for Marine Protected Areas by 2030, the UN’s upcoming ‘Decade of Action for Cryospheric Sciences’ (2025-2034), and preparations for the next International Polar Year (2032-2033).”