The grandson of a pioneering scuba diving legend is spending an entire year circumnavigating the coastline in a converted lifeboat to save the ocean

Scuba diving pioneer Kelly Tarlton has inspired a bold new journey in a converted lifeboat.

His grandson, Tane Tarlton, has grand plans to spend a full year at sea.

The mission is to circumnavigate the New Zealand coastline, while spotlighting ocean conservation efforts.

His vessel of choice is a 28-foot lifeboat that is being fitted with all the essentials he needs for the epic journey.

He had to learn from earlier failed attempts

The journey itself is about far more than just covering distance.

Tarlton plans to highlight 52 different ocean conservation initiatives along the way, showcasing individuals and organizations working to protect marine environments.

By documenting their stories, he aims to push these efforts beyond the usual environmental circles and inspire more people to take action.

Getting to that point hadn’t been easy.

The project originally began with a smaller 6-meter lifeboat.

However, an early attempt to sail it up the coast ended in disaster when the engine failed, leading to a dramatic 10-hour tow by the coast guard.

That setback ultimately led to a major upgrade: a 28-foot lifeboat better suited for the demands of a year-long expedition at sea.

Transforming that lifeboat into a fully functional living space became a project in itself.

The vessel was fitted with essential ballast, helping stabilize the boat and ensure it performed correctly in rough conditions.

Many people worked together to make the lifeboat project come alive

The once basic survival craft has been converted into a capable long-distance explorer.

When everything is complete, it will be equipped with a proper kitchen, sleeping quarters, and advanced navigation systems.

There was also no shortage of innovation along the way.

From a custom-built duckboard at the stern for extra space, to advanced marine tech like radar and autopilot, the boat was equipped for both safety and comfort.

It was a collaborative effort, too, with engineers, builders, and supporters all contributing their expertise to bring the vision to life.

For Tarlton, the mission carried a deeply personal meaning.

Growing up connected to the legacy of his grandfather, who inspired generations through ventures like Kelly Tarlton’s Sea Life Aquarium, clearly left its mark.

That influence drove him to take on a challenge that many would have considered extreme.

But this doesn’t deter Tarlton at all.

“The build’s been a proper challenge. It has pushed me more than I expected,” he said.

“But that’s the point. Somewhere between the chaos and the calm, you figure out why you’re doing it.”

If you want to find out more about his build, watch his full video below:

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