This November, students from Sir James Douglas Elementary School in Victoria, BC, will embark on an unique project as they prepare to launch the “Wind Wanderer,” an ocean-crossing miniature sailboat , from the rugged shores of Canada’s West Coast. Unlike traditional sailing vessels with set destinations, the Wind Wanderer is a free drifter, making its journey across the ocean with the prevailing winds and currents. The boat includes a satellite tracker, and is expected to arrive somewhere along the east coast of Asia.
The Wind Wanderer project has captivated the students’ imaginations, blending technology, creativity, and a sense of adventure. Over the past several months, these young innovators have collaborated closely, learning the intricacies of boat design, engineering, and programming. Under the guidance of their teachers and with the support of the Sailbotix educational program, the students have been actively involved in every aspect of the project—from assembling the boat’s components to coding the onboard systems that will guide its autonomous journey.
The beauty of the Wind Wanderer lies in its unpredictability. As a free drifter, the boat will be at the mercy of the wind and currents, allowing nature to dictate its path. The students eagerly anticipate tracking its progress, unsure whether it will head toward distant shores or explore the vast expanses of the open ocean. This sense of mystery and exploration resonates deeply with the students, fostering a connection to the natural world and the unpredictable forces that govern it.
The link to the tracker page will be posted here before the launch.
