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In the early 20th century, Prince Albert Ist, a pioneer of oceanography and an early leading advocate for the protection of the environment, journeyed through unknown regions of Spitzberg, located near the North Pole. From July 25 through 31, 2005, H.S.H. Prince Albert II visited the same locations His illustrious ancestor visited during His voyage, namely the “Lillihöök” and “Monaco” glaciers.

His Highness invited scientists and North Pole specialists to accompany Him on the expedition including Mrs. Samantha Smith, who directs the “Arctic Program” for the World Wildlife Fund, Mr. Roberto Cassi from the International Agency of Nuclear Energy (Laboratory of Marine Environment) and Professor Jean Jaubert, Director of Monaco’s Oceanographic Museum.

The main scientific objectives of this expedition were to study the accumulation of polluting agents inside some sea organisms and evaluate the threat of pollution on the arctic ecosystem. Pollutant traces embedded in growth circles of some seashells (those with a very long lifespan) were examined to determine the exact evolution of the climate through the last two centuries.

Under harsh weather conditions, they took an inventory of the marine life and gathered meteorological and photographic data to study the shifts of the ice barrier and glaciers. Plankton was captured in nets, while divers ventured in the freezing waters to collect sea life living at the sea bottom.

During this trip, Prince Albert II and the members of His expedition were able to observe a varied fauna including polar bears, sea lions, seals, as well as numerous birds. Their ship traveled nearly 750 miles around the archipelago, reaching 80 degrees 36 minutes North latitude.

H.S.H. Prince Albert II expressed His wish to return to this part of the world and from April 10 through April 19, 2006, He will attempt to reach the North Pole in a dog-sleigh from the Russian base of Borneo about 60 miles away.

A press conference, in the presence of His Highness and the members of the future expedition, will take place on November 28, 2005, and will provide more details.