The message reads, in part:
“This unique project, which you are undertaking with the support of the Russian Geographic Society, your fellow travellers and explorers, well-known researchers and people with interest in and enthusiasm for your venture, is the first of its kind in history and will be certain to attract the attention of the public, specialists and sailing experts.
You have already conquered some of the most remote and difficult routes on past occasions: at sea, in the mountains, at the North and South Poles. I am sure that this expedition will be a success and will bring honour and glory to Russia, a country that has written many memorable pages in the history of geographical discoveries.”