Memorial Reefs International has launched its first Undersea Memorial Garden in La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico. This innovative project offers families a unique way to honor loved ones while contributing to the restoration of marine ecosystems in the Sea of Cortez.
Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, a breathtaking marine reserve, is attracting global tourists. However, its fragile ecosystem faces threats from overexploitation and climate change. The TUI Care Foundation, in collaboration with African Parks, is implementing the ‘TUI Sea the Change Mozambique’ initiative to protect this unique environment while empowering local communities.
The Hermanus Whale Festival, South Africa’s renowned eco-marine festival, returns from September 27th to 29th, 2024. It attracts thousands of visitors to witness the majestic southern right whales and learn about marine conservation. The festival offers a variety of activities, including whale watching, educational exhibits, and cultural events. In addition to the festival, Hermanus offers stunning beaches, nature reserves, and unique dining experiences.
Montenegro’s Minister of Ecology highlights the critical need for marine conservation, emphasizing the environmental risks associated with maritime activities and the importance of balancing tourism development with sustainable practices. The minister calls for strict regulations, technological advancements, and collaboration between government and the private sector to protect the country’s marine environment.
In honor of World Oceans Day, Sandals Resorts International (SRI) highlights its ongoing initiatives to protect and preserve the marine ecosystem. The company welcomes Fabien Cousteau and the PROTEUSTM team to explore Curaçao’s potential as a site for the “International Space Station of the Ocean.” Through its Future Goals program, SRI empowers children to embrace sustainability, and it celebrates 10 years of Women’s Dive Day by hosting a special event at Sandals Ochi in Jamaica.
Atlas Ocean Voyages has partnered with the Global Penguin Society and ORCA, leading marine conservation organizations, to enhance wildlife exploration and conservation efforts on its expedition cruises. Guests aboard the World Navigator’s Antarctica expedition in November 2024 will gain expert insights from Global Penguin Society conservationists, delve into penguin research, and support their mission to safeguard all 18 penguin species. Additionally, Atlas Ocean Voyages continues its collaboration with ORCA, involving guests as citizen scientists in marine conservation projects during the World Voyager’s Arctic expeditions. These partnerships underscore Atlas Ocean Voyages’ commitment to wildlife conservation and inspiring guests to actively participate in preserving marine ecosystems.
Researchers aboard the NOAA ship Bell M. Shimada captured footage of a critically endangered North Pacific right whale just three miles west of Point Reyes in Marin County, California. With an estimated population of fewer than 500 remaining, this sighting highlights the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect this majestic marine mammal.
A 2.2-meter-tall seahorse sculpture named Neptune has been installed at Middle Beach in Studland Bay, Dorset, UK, to raise awareness about the diminishing seagrass meadows. This initiative aims to highlight the importance of protecting seagrass habitats, which are vital for marine life and contribute positively to the climate. The sculpture also serves as an educational attraction for tourists, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ecological significance of the area. By learning about the challenges faced by seagrass meadows, visitors can become informed advocates for conservation. Local tourism businesses stand to benefit from the increased foot traffic generated by Neptune.
Amilla Maldives, located in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, has partnered with local NGO Atoll Marine Centre (AMC) to offer guests the opportunity to learn about and participate in marine conservation efforts. The partnership aims to research and protect turtles and their habitats. Amilla Maldives is a member of The Conscious Travel Foundation and an EarthCheck silver-certified island resort, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability.
Prepare for an extraordinary underwater event in the Maldives, as the Manta Conservation Initiative sets ‘hot dates’ for prime manta ray sightings. From May through November, the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve transforms into a hotspot for reef manta rays, attracted by the nutrient-rich currents. Guests at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru have the unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close, with the resort’s pioneering conservation efforts leading to a significant increase in sightings. Notable encounters include the sighting of three oceanic manta rays and the re-sighting of Hassandhari, a large male oceanic manta. The program’s transition into an NGO underscores its ongoing commitment to manta ray conservation globally, while Landaa Giraavaru continues to offer unique experiences for guests to interact with mantas.
