The Orient Expedition

After three years of planning and over two years building their boat, the Schurmanns face delays on the first leg of their journey along the Brazilian coast.

As the Schurmanns sail to Antarctica, they face one of the world's most dangerous sea routes, echoing the historic challenges faced by Chinese explorers on their oceanic voyages.

The Schurmanns navigate the South Pacific, exploring remote islands and cultures. They investigate the legacy of the Treasure Fleet and its impact on local civilizations.

After a year at sea and 21,000km, the Schurmanns reach New Zealand, where the mysterious Kaimanawa ruins – potentially a Chinese relic – pose unanswered questions.

As they sail from Australia to Papua New Guinea, the Schurmann's 'Orient Expedition' reflects on how the Chinese managed food and water supplies on their vessels.

The expedition sails toward China, with a planned stop in Okinawa, an island with a rich history of trade and diplomatic ties with the Chinese Empire.

In China, the Schurmanns study Admiral Zheng He, who led seven major maritime expeditions in the 15th century, visiting 37 countries and influencing Southeast Asia.

Navigating Indonesian waters, the Schurmanns learn how Zheng He defeated pirates in the Strait of Malacca, ensuring safety for the crucial passage between the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

The expedition crosses the Indian Ocean, and after over 295 hours at sea, they visit Mauritius and Réunion, exploring Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world's most active volcanoes.

The Schurmanns’ final leg from Richards Bay to Cape Town crosses a perilous part of the Indian Ocean, echoing challenges faced by the Treasure Fleet and raising questions about its reach.