Since its launch in 2006, the “Adopt a Ship” program has evolved from a pioneering educational initiative into an internationally recognized bridge between schools and the maritime community. Through continuous growth, new partnerships and expanding participation, the program has connected thousands of students, teachers, seafarers and shipping companies, inspiring future generations while strengthening understanding of the shipping industry and life at sea. Explore the milestones that have shaped the program’s remarkable journey.
2006
The “Adopt a Ship” program is initiated by the Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSI) and the Cyprus Maritime Environmental Protection Association (CYMEPA)
2017
The program expands to the Philippines, Poland and India
2018
PROJECT CONNECT establishes “Adopt a Ship” in the world’s largest ship-owning nation, Greece, and receives authorization from the Hellenic Ministry of Education, Research and Religious Affairs and the Hellenic Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy
2019
Project Connect and Life at Sea join forces to promote social inclusion and increase awareness on human health and wellbeing onboard vessels
2019-2020
The "Adopt a Ship" program is successfully running in 32 classes of 15 primary schools, with 26 vessels from 13 Greek Shipping Companies.
2020-2021
The "Adopt a Ship" Program is running its third school year with Panhellenic coverage. On board are 57 classes of 33 Elementary Schools with 34 vessels from 19 Greek Shipping Companies.
2021-2022
The "Adopt a Ship" Program is running its fourth school year with Panhellenic coverage. On board are 141 classes of 66 Elementary & Jr High Schools with 94 vessels from 44 Greek Shipping Companies.
2022-2023
The "Adopt a Ship" Program is running its fifth school year with Panhellenic coverage. On board are 165 classes of 83 Elementary, Jr High and vocational schools with 112 vessels from 48 Greek Shipping Companies.
2023-2024
The "Adopt a Ship" Program is running its sixth school year with Panhellenic coverage. On board are 168 classes of 102 Elementary, Jr High and vocational schools with 124 vessels from 48 Greek Shipping Companies. Also, it goes to Florida, USA (Plato Academy Schools) & participates ELEPAP, the oldest non-profit charity organization for the Rehabilitation for the Disabled.
2024-2025
The "Adopt a Ship" Program continues its journey for the seventh school year, on board 238 classes of 142 Elementary, Jr High and vocational schools with 170 vessels from 48 Greek Shipping Companies. The correspondence this year between schools and vessels has been 780 letters up to March, engaging 4506 students and 215 teachers.