At the heart of the Mediterranean sails an extraordinary project, driven not only by the wind but by a strong and visionary idea: to mend the dialogue among the peoples bordering this ancient sea through culture, scientific research, and human connection.
Founded in 2013 by writer and sailor Simone Perotti and cultural promoter Francesca R. Piro, Progetto Mediterranea is a nautical, cultural, scientific, and social expedition that traverses the Mediterranean with the aim of building connections among people, promoting dialogue, environmental respect, peace, and cultural diversity.
The boat is a true “floating home” and scientific laboratory: the crew members, called the “Mediterranei“, come from diverse backgrounds and contribute collaboratively and through self-management to life on board and the project’s activities, maintaining complete operational and intellectual independence.
Along their journey, they collaborate with universities and scientific institutions such as the University of Milano-Bicocca and ISPRA, conducting research on marine biodiversity, pollution, and climate change. Among the most notable scientific initiatives are “Spot the Monk”, focused on the conservation of the Mediterranean monk seal, and “Floating Litter”, dedicated to monitoring marine waste.
In the coming months, their route will pass through some of Greece’s most fascinating ports and coastal towns — Messolonghi, Ithaca, Zakynthos, Pylos, Kythira, Nafplio, Spetses — where each stop will offer an opportunity to rediscover the deep ties that unite Mediterranean cultures and to build new bridges where others see only borders.
Yesterday, in Kalamata Marine Port, seven new “Mediterranei” friends welcomed the OTR staff on board: a unique experience that allowed to witness firsthand what it means to embark on a journey with good intentions — a close-knit, generous group, a living example of how one can navigate the present with an eye toward the future, in respect of nature, diversity, and shared memory. The boat itself is powered by a self-sustaining system using green energy from wind and solar sources, ensuring the vessel’s functionality with minimal environmental impact.
Progetto Mediterranea is a concrete example of how culture can become action, journey, and transformation — an open invitation to all who believe that the sea, rather than dividing us, brings us together.
🌐 To learn more and follow the journey: www.progettomediterranea.com