The Team

As Technical and Operational Director, I oversee and coordinate all activities required to transform our vessel into a fully functional scientific research ship. This includes managing technical operations, supervising the crew, handling budgets, and integrating scientific instruments. I work closely with everyone on the team, from scientists to logistical partners, to ensure smooth collaboration. Our goal is to operate an efficient and capable research vessel, ready for missions around the world, while also serving as a platform for education and raising public awareness about ocean conservation.

I was practically born on a boat in Costa Rica and have spent my life living aboard various family workboats and sailing yachts. Life at sea has always been my normal.

Driven by a deep connection to the ocean and a desire to explore further, I became a commercial diver, hoping one day to venture into the depths where few have gone. Being part of this project, which pushes boundaries in every sense, is an incredible opportunity. It allows me to contribute my part to the greater mission of understanding our planet and its Oceans.

What truly motivates me is the challenge of navigating to remote, often rough places to do something that genuinely matters for the world.

On board, I prepare the cabins, stock up on food for the crew during expeditions, and make sure everyone feels cared for. I grew up on an organic farm, so I’ve always had a strong connection to nature and this project speaks to me deeply. I studied in art school and became a leather craftswoman. I'm very hands-on and creative and I love literature, paragliding, trekking and new adventures. For me, every day is a new adventure!

Three years ago, I started creating handmade jewelry using seashells I found in my surroundings. Two years ago, I decided to leave leathercraft behind and met my partner, Calum. We now live in a van with Mia, his lovely dog. Together, we've taken on many creative projects, like building a tiny house and even a crêpe bike!

I’ve always loved cooking for my friends and family, so when Calum joined the crew of Malizia Explorer, I followed him and soon found my place on board this beautiful ship. This is my first experience at sea and I’m truly happy to be part of this scientific expedition. We have a fantastic team!

My name is Calum Heron. I am the First Officer on the ME. My parents are Scottish and we moved to France when I was young. I have always had a connection with the sea, either on it or in it, as a keen diver. I have also always had a love for tinkering with all sorts of machinery, curious by nature and eager to understand how things work. I am a hands-on, DIY type of guy. It was clear to me that boats were where I needed to go.

I pursued my studies to become a marine engineer, alongside electronics, sales, and business management. After three years working in a ship chandler, I decided to open my own business to learn more skills: classic and sports car import and classic car restorations. At that point in my life, I was looking for more simplicity and spare time. My goal was to buy my own sailing boat but I needed a stepping stone, so I sold my house and closed my business to buy a van, which I converted to live in close to the sea while looking for the right opportunity. I have not yet made the jump, but I have been a full-time van-lifer for ten years now. I enjoy this lifestyle with a  minimal footprint, living with less is more, and being closer to the elements. Since then, I have been converting vans into homes on wheels, as well as tiny houses, both for pleasure and as a living.

But this year I once again heard the call of the ocean and was instantly hooked, when I heard about this project. I started off as a day worker back in March during the boats refit, reinstalling all sorts of systems on the boat. One day I was a plumber, the next a mechanic, electrician, rigger, on hydraulics or a painter.

I particularly love and respect the whole idea and team behind this project. The sea is so important for me but also for the whole planet. So being able to take part in this race about climate change, while maintaining and keeping the boat in her best shape, is great. Since the launch, the captain and I have created a team and, cherry on the cake, my girlfriend Axelle is also part of the crew.

We are ready and looking forward to all our missions to come. Over and out.

I originally come from the Alps of France, where my passion for sailing began with my father. My journey into the world of sailing led me to study boat engineering in Les Sables d’Olonne. Before joining Team Malizia, I had the opportunity to work with various teams, gaining valuable experience along the way. My adventure with Team Malizia began at the start of The Ocean Race in Alicante in December 2022. What drew me to Team Malizia was not only the team's incredible spirit but also our mission beyond racing. We are committed to collecting data for scientific research, which will contribute to future climate science. I take immense pride in being part of a team that is not only competitive in sailing but also dedicated to making a positive impact on climate change.