this type of boat can diversify its energy sources -- even in the most extreme conditions . '' Conditions on the route are treacherous : Vessels that enter its waters at the wrong time can get trapped in thick ice for months in temperatures that go as low as -50 C. Ironically for the eco-expedition , it is receding ice levels , thought to be caused by global warming , that has crossing the passage a possibility once again in the last few years . The voyage , which is projected to take about six months , started in the South of France in April and , if they make it through the route successfully , will end in Japan . The crew 's other ecological concessions include relying on solar panels for electricity and warm water , using only long-lasting LED light bulbs and eating only organic products during their journey . On-board are seven adults and two children , including a painter , two writers , a scientist and a historian . Currently , the team 's primary concern is not the fear of being trapped in ice and being forced to `` hibernate '' in Siberia 's
LONDON , England -LRB- CNN -RRB- -- An eco-friendly French boat is hoping to successfully cross the perilous Arctic sea passage that links the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific . The old tug-boat , Le Manguier , has been converted into an eco-friendly vessel with three sails and solar panels . `` Le Manguier '' is attempting to navigate the icy , unpredictable Northern Sea Route , a 6,000 mile passage that skims the northern coast of Siberia . It is a trip that only a handful of leisure boats in history have successfully completed . Not only that , the modified tug boat is also attempting to do it ecologically . The boat 's crew is relying partly on wind-power to complete the route , parts of which are only free of ice for two short months during the Arctic summer . Three sails have been added to the tug boat , which normally runs on gas-guzzling motors . '' ` Le Manguier ' was the opposite of the ecological vessel , '' Philippe Hercher , captain and part-owner of the boat told CNN . `` What we wanted to do was create a symbol and show that even