Mar de Hielo 2025: A Spanish Expedition Across the Arctic

The “Mar de Hielo 2025” expedition will traverse the Northwest Passage in the Canadian Arctic over 42 days, covering 800 km while facing extreme conditions, to honor historical explorers and highlight the Arctic’s environmental importance.

The Mar de Hielo 2025 expedition is a Spanish exploration mission set to take place in the Canadian Arctic. This historic endeavor, led by explorers José Trejo, Francisco Mira “Quitín,” and Sechu López, aims to cross the legendary Northwest Passage.

The journey will last for 42 days, covering a distance of 800 kilometers. The team will operate in extreme conditions, facing subzero temperatures and unpredictable weather in one of the world’s most remote areas. Scheduled between March and May 2025, their route will connect the Inuit settlements of Resolute Bay on Cornwallis Island and Gjoa Haven on King William Island. This path follows in the footsteps of legendary explorers John Franklin and Roald Amundsen. In addition to the physical and technical challenges, the expedition aims to honor the legacy of historical explorers and raise awareness about the Arctic’s environmental and geopolitical significance.

A Journey Through History

From March 22 to May 17, 2025, the Mar de Hielo 2025 expedition will traverse 800 kilometers, connecting Resolute Bay and Gjoa Haven. This route is historically significant, as it has witnessed key events in Arctic exploration. In the 19th century, John Franklin’s attempt to navigate the Northwest Passage ended in tragedy when his crew became trapped in the ice. Later, in 1906, Roald Amundsen successfully completed the passage, marking a major milestone in maritime exploration. The upcoming expedition serves as a test of endurance and skill, honoring these early explorers and contributing to our understanding of the Arctic and its delicate ecosystem.

A Physical and Technical Challenge in Extreme Conditions

The expedition team will utilize the Back Country Nordic technique, using cross-country skis while towing 120 kg sleds carrying all their necessary supplies. They will embark on this journey without any outside assistance or restocking opportunities, making careful resource management essential to their success. The main challenges they will encounter include:

• Extreme cold, with temperatures dropping to -50°C.
• Blizzards and powerful Arctic winds that can hinder navigation.
• The risk of polar bear encounters, requiring strict safety measures.
• Limited access to drinking water, which they will obtain by melting ice.
• These tough conditions demand high levels of physical endurance, technical skill, and adaptability, turning this expedition into a true test of resilience in one of the world’s most formidable environments.

The Explorers

The Mar de Hielo 2025 expedition is led by a team of three seasoned adventurers, each with unique expertise in extreme environments:

• José Trejo (Badajoz): An experienced explorer known for his polar expeditions and his work in scientific and cultural outreach. He has successfully led numerous projects that merge sports, history, and exploration.
• Sechu López (Ourense): A highly regarded mountaineer with significant climbs in the Himalayas, including notable peaks like Annapurna and Shisha Pangma. His vast experience in challenging high-altitude conditions will greatly benefit the team.
• Francisco Mira “Quitín” (Murcia): An accomplished athlete with a long track record of endurance challenges and expeditions in tough environments. His adaptability to extreme conditions is essential for the expedition’s success.

An Expedition of Exploration and Discovery

The expedition aims to highlight the importance of polar exploration. It focuses on the historical significance of such expeditions and their relevance today, especially concerning climate change and environmental transformations in the Arctic. The Embassy of Spain in Canada will monitor the expedition’s progress and recognizes the commitment of José Trejo, Francisco Mira “Quitín,” and Sechu López. They extend their best wishes for a successful journey.