Whatever the reason, witnessing a sea turtle nesting, hatching, or swimming is a bucket-list item for many travelers. In many cases, watching a sea turtle while nesting is the most accessible way to observe these creatures, but it’s also when they’re the most vulnerable.

Given that sea turtles are threatened with extinction, it’s important that we do what we can to protect sea turtles while nesting and hatching. Conservation programs often recruit volunteers to monitor beaches overnight to protect nesting turtles, ensure the safety of their eggs, and help hatchlings find the sea.

So how can we watch nesting and hatching sea turtles without harming them? Like all things in nature, we must find a balance. It is possible to enjoy and, in some cases, interact with these creatures while being respectful and mindful of them and their homes. In fact, when done intentionally, sea turtle tourism can even benefit sea turtles. Here are some simple guidelines you can follow to enjoy the experience of witnessing sea turtles in the wild in an ethical and sustainable way.

Take a conservation tour

With on-site experts to guide you, sea turtle conservation tours run by reputable nonprofit organizations can ensure a memorable experience that doesn’t harm these animals or their homes. Participating in such programs also supports the tour leader’s important conservation work, such as Oceanic Society’s sea turtle conservation program.

For example, Oceanic Society’s sea turtle volunteer trip in Trinidad will put you in the midst of the world’s densest population of nesting leatherbacks, where an estimated 20,000 nests are laid annually. You will train with the community-based nonprofit Nature Seekers, whom your visit supports, to patrol the beach nightly, and will get hands-on experience helping measure, tag, and collect data on nesting turtles.

Sea turtle conservation tours run by reputable nonprofit organizations can ensure a memorable experience that doesn’t harm these animals or their homes. Oceanic Society volunteers in Trinidad work under the supervision of the local nonprofit Nature Seekers. © Ashleigh Bandimere

Oceanic Society’s Costa Rica’s Wild Pacific tour also offers an opportunity to witness a mass nesting event, called an “arribada,” of olive ridley sea turtles, following sea turtle tourism best practices under the guidance of local authorities.

Go with local experts

When visiting a place and looking to see wild sea turtles, the Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (WIDECAST) encourages seeking out trained local experts who are knowledgeable about where to go – and avoid – and how to responsibly view sea turtles without disturbing them. Not all sea turtle tourism experiences follow best practices to assure the safety of the animals, so it is important to seek out programs that collaborate with qualified sea turtle experts.

Be sure to provide tips and compensation to your guides! Your money will promote a sea turtle and ocean-friendly economy.

Conservation tourism can benefit the animals by supporting economies that value sea turtles and by providing funding to help protect these wonderful creatures. © Brian J. Hutchinson

Be a responsible tourist

If you’re visiting a place known for sea turtles, be sure to follow these turtle-friendly practices:

• Turn out unnecessary lights and make minimal use of flashlights during sea turtle nesting season. Sea turtles are highly sensitive to white light (including the flashlight on your mobile phone), which can disorient them and impact their willingness to nest. Or, invest in a quality red-light headlamp that is much less likely to disturb or disorient sea turtles.
• Control your pets on beaches and in areas where turtle nests could be. Keep your pet on a leash at all times.
• Avoid driving on the beach, even if it’s permitted. Not only can vehicles crush turtle eggs, but tire tracks left in the sand can trap hatchlings as they make their way to the sea.
• Keep your distance. Turtles can be sensitive to movement and noise, and approaching them can cause them to abandon their nests. If you see a sea turtle, remain quiet and enjoy the opportunity to witness from afar, without flash photography.

There are many ways to participate responsibly and behold the beauty of sea turtles. Indeed, conservation tourism can benefit the animals by supporting economies that value sea turtles and providing funding to help protect these wonderful creatures.

The post Sea Turtle Tourism Offers Opportunity to Observe and Interact While Having a Positive Impact appeared first on Oceanic Society.

To learn more about their work and mission, we sat down for a Q&A with Plaine Products CEO and Co-Founder, Lindsay Delaplaine. Here is what she had to say:

What was the catalyst for creating Plaine Products?

For 10 years I lived in The Bahamas doing environment education work. In addition to being a gorgeous place to live, it also exposed me to truths that are harder to see here in the U.S. On small islands there’s no first world infrastructure to insulate you from the piles of plastic waste we are creating. You see plastic trash in unpopulated, remote areas; bottles and flip flops on the beaches, packaging spilling out of the landfills. There’s even a place so full of plastic it’s called “Junk Beach.” The message that plastic lasts forever, no matter how long we use it, is much more obvious living there than it is here.

Once I saw where all the plastic waste ended up, I decided I wanted to start using less single-use plastic in my life: carrying a reusable water bottle, reusable grocery bags, skipping the straw at restaurants and bars. I looked for other ways to use less plastic. But I couldn’t figure out how to get those plastic bottles out of my shower. There were no alternatives that worked for me and my hair.

As my family contemplated a move back to the United States, I realized that I might be able to solve my own problem. Even better, I might be able to help other people use less plastic in their lives. I pulled in my sister, Alison Webster, who has a design degree and strong opinions about the importance of high quality products. Together we spent two years working on a solution to make it easier for people to get quality products without having to buy single-use plastic bottles.

Plaine Products was co-founded by sisters Lindsey and Alison Delaplaine to help people reduce plastic waste in their homes by offering personal care products in reusable, circular packaging.

Plaine Products was founded in February 2017 to reduce waste in bathrooms across the country by offering circular packaging that can be returned for reuse. In six years we have eliminated more than 625,000 plastic bottles from the waste stream.

Here’s how it works:

1. You order your preferred products.
2. When your bottles are low, you order a refill, or you can subscribe and we’ll send the bottles automatically.
3. When the refills come, you’ll switch the pumps over and send back the empty bottles in the refill box, Plaine Products covers the cost.
4. Then we clean the bottles, refill them, and reuse them.

When did focusing on the sustainability aspect of your business come into play, was there an “aha” moment?

Our “solution” to sustainability is pretty simple, we’re just washing and reusing the packaging. We’ve just gone back to how packaging was managed before it all became disposable and convenience was the only metric used to judge success. Many of the products and solutions people are working on today rely on new technologies, which is great, but we’re happy to provide an option that just requires a little consciousness on the part of the consumer, and a little more work on our end.

Were there any unexpected challenges? How did Plaine Products overcome these obstacles to continue its mission to promote sustainability?

It’s always tricky running a small business, but one using a new model of consumption is even harder. It’s challenging to explain the reuse model to our customers, although those who adopt it seem to love it based on the feedback and the help we get from word of mouth referrals! It is hard to help people find us when awareness about reuse models is low and when the keywords for our business are still being created and are evolving as the circular/reuse movement grows. However, knowing we are enabling our customers to opt out of a disposable culture, and help reduce plastic waste, keeps us going. We rely on partners, like the Oceanic Society, to help us reach people who are looking for the products and reuse services we provide.

Plaine Products allows customers to return bottles to be cleaned, refilled, and reused (the company covers the cost). When they can no longer be cleaned and reused, the aluminum bottles are recycled.

Your eco-friendly practices and unique refill-model makes Plaine Products stand out in the market. Can you shed some light on what sets your personal care products apart from conventional options and how these choices contribute to a greener planet?

When we started, we were the only company that paid for customers to return bottles to be cleaned, refilled, and reused. We are still relatively unique in putting in the extra effort to fully using our bottles, not just providing packaging that can be recycled.

The nice thing about aluminum, as opposed to plastic, is that when it is eventually recycled (after going through as many wash and reuse cycles as possible), there’s no loss in quality. It just turns right back into more aluminum. When plastic is recycled it is downgraded into a lower form of plastic until it becomes unusable and ends up in a landfill or the ocean.

What is your approach through giving back with your company?

I worked in nonprofits throughout my 20s and 30s and value the important work they do to raise awareness and provide education on topics that are critical to our planet and well-being. There are just some things that businesses will never do and nonprofits fill that gap. It was important to me that we support nonprofit work around plastic research and reuse, and as a 1% for the Planet Business member, I like that this commitment holds us accountable to donate 1% of our revenue to nonprofits like Oceanic Society.

What is your favorite thing to do in nature?

All the things! I’m a big hiker, but sailing would also rank high. My husband and I lived on a C&C 36 in our 20s. We sailed from Florida to Central America and spent a year exploring before we ran out of money and sailed back to the Bahamas to go to work. We now own a Melges 15, a little two person race boat, so we can still sail locally in Wilmington, NC where we now live. We try to take a sailing vacation with my mom, my sister (and Plaine Products co-founder) and her family at least every two years. Traveling by boat is such a great way to visit out of the way locations, get in lots of diving and snorkeling, and have time together as a family since our teens are without wifi and no can get away.

Anything else you’d like to share?

We are thrilled to support the work of the Oceanic Society through our 1% Percent for the Planet membership, but also through our Plaine Promoters program. If you use the coupon code OS20 while shopping online at Plaine Products, you’ll get 20% off your order and an additional 10% will be donated to Oceanic Society.

The post Meet Plaine Products: A Personal Care Company on a Mission to Reduce Plastic Waste appeared first on Oceanic Society.

Are you ready to discover the aquatic wonders of the Caribbean? Get your mask and fins ready as we explore some of the most exciting and under-the-radar Caribbean snorkeling destinations.

Cuba: Gardens of the Queen

A beautiful reef scene in Gardens of the Queen. © Keoki Stender

For many, Cuba remains shrouded in mystique due to its decades-long isolation imposed by U.S. economic sanctions. Due to confusing regulations regarding U.S. citizen travel to Cuba, many assume it is impossible to visit, but this is a myth. Regular tourists can qualify under U.S. travel regulations. However, if you want a hassle-free experience that takes you to the best Caribbean snorkeling on the island – in addition to experiencing Havana, an iconic city brimming with food, culture, and surrounded by stunning landscapes – go with a trusted tour operator for the ultimate Caribbean adventure.

Where to Go: For the best Caribbean snorkeling, Gardens of the Queen (Jardines de la Reina) cannot be missed. Located on the south side of the island, this strictly protected area is considered the most pristine reef system in the Caribbean. Today, the Gardens of the Queen is a bustling home to beautiful coral formations and an abundance of species that are now rare elsewhere, like groupers, sharks, hawksbill sea turtles, and countless other species.

One reason the Gardens of the Queen is so well preserved is due to its isolation. It is located offshore, with no hotels in proximity, and can only be visited via liveaboard.

Best Time to Go: The best time to visit is from November to May when the weather is dry and the visibility is excellent. The shoulder seasons yield even fewer tourists with the same idyllic conditions.

Nicaragua: Corn Islands

It is easy to escape the crowds and experience some of the best Caribbean snorkeling at the remote Corn Islands.

For those lamenting the crowds of partiers and social media influencers that define much of today’s Caribbean beach experience, the Corn Islands of Nicaragua may give you a glimpse of what the region was like 30-years ago, before mainstream takeover. The Corn Islands have a population of just 850, and their tiny size and relative isolation (50 miles off the eastern coast of Nicaragua, requiring a short flight from the mainland) make them an ideal place to enjoy a slice of Caribbean paradise without the crowds.

Where to Go: Though it may be off-grid, you can still stay at a boutique hotel on Little Corn Island, surrounded by warm Caribbean waters and dozens of vibrant coral reefs  – regarded as some of the best Caribbean snorkeling sites. Keep an eye out for spotted eagle rays, sea turtles, and moray eels as you glide through the warm and shallow coastal waters.

Best Time to Go: Visit between March and August for calm seas and optimal visibility.

Belize: Turneffe Atoll

Belize’s Great Blue Hole, just one highlight in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Belize Barrier Reef.

Belize may be most famous for the Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole that can be seen from space. While the Blue Hole is indeed worth a visit, it is just one of near-countless snorkeling locations within the Belize Barrier Reef, part of the second largest barrier reef system in the world. The sprawling reef system is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site due to the variety of reefs contained in a small area, and is home to some of the last bastions of healthy coral reefs in the Caribbean, where sea turtles, sharks, rays, and 500 species of tropical fish bustle through clear, warm waters.

Where to Go: For the best snorkeling in Belize, stay at Turneffe Atoll, a remote marine reserve considered the most biologically diverse coral atoll in the western hemisphere. The sandy island paradise, some 20 miles offshore, is lined by dazzling coral reef systems and is within striking distance of exquisite snorkeling and dive locations such as the Great Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef, and Half Moon Caye Natural Monument – Belize’s first marine reserve. Altogether, this makes a stay at Turneffe Atoll an essential experience for those looking for the best Caribbean snorkeling.

Best Time to Go: Dry season, between November and May, which sees calm waters and clear weather, ideal for snorkeling and boating between the sandy islands.

Puerto Rico: Rincón & Tres Palmas Marine Reserve

Watch beautiful sunsets from Rincón on Puerto Rico’s west coast. © Isla Mar

Puerto Rico may be synonymous with coconut-cocktails and beach parties, but for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an underwater adventure close to home (no passport required as Puerto Rico is part of the U.S.), there is a wild side to the island that beckons. Puerto Rico’s less developed west coast boasts a unique combination of crystal-clear waters, stunning coastlines, bustling jungles, bioluminescent plankton (spectacular at night), and an all-together laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal experience for those looking for an accessible and all-around Caribbean adventure.

Where to Go: Puerto Rico is lined by beautiful beaches where the clear and warm waters are ideal for snorkeling. However, if we had to pick from the lot, Rincón, situated on the remote western corner of the island, is the ideal jumping off point for the best snorkeling on the island. Just offshore lies Tres Palmas Marine Reserve, a 1,400 acre park that sprawls across the coastline, offering a plentiful choice of beach accessible reefs, and a long-history of conservation activity. And the bioluminescent bay at La Parguera on the southern coast is also worth a visit!

Best Time to Go: Snorkel in Puerto Rico between February and August, where seas are calmest during the spring and summer.

Explore the Caribbean with Oceanic Society

Oceanic Society has deep roots in the Caribbean, having led eco-tour expeditions in the Caribbean for the last 40+ years. Our intimate knowledge of the Caribbean, long-standing partnerships with environmental organizations in the region, and careful, hand-crafted itineraries ensure that our travelers are immersed in the most vibrant marine ecosystems, while also supporting both the economies and ecosystems we visit.

View our full lineup of Caribbean snorkeling adventures and learn more about our unique sustainable travel model, through which each booking of a multi-day adventure directly sponsors the removal of 200 pounds of ocean pollution.

The post The Best Caribbean Snorkeling Destinations to Avoid the Crowds appeared first on Oceanic Society.

Watch: ‘Sea Turtles: Deep Dive — Plastic Pollution’

About Plastic Pollution and Sea Turtles

Plastic pollution in our oceans is a growing global problem that impacts a wide range of marine species, including sea turtles. Sea turtles are impacted by plastic pollution in multiple ways, primarily through ingestion and entanglement. Although scientists are still working to understand the full scope of the impacts of plastic pollution on sea turtles, the initial evidence is alarming. It is estimated that more than half of all sea turtles have eaten plastic, and that more than 1,000 turtles die every year due to entanglement in plastic.

Explore this important topic in our new guide and short film about sea turtles and plastic pollution.

About Oceanic Society and Seiko

Oceanic Society and Seiko have been partnering for ocean conservation since 2021. Seiko has proudly supported Oceanic Society’s sea turtle conservation programs and the 2022 and 2023 Global Ocean Cleanups, in addition to the new ‘Sea Turtles: Deep Dive’ YouTube series.

Learn more about the Seiko Prospex Mission and Seiko’s commitment to ocean conservation.

The post New Educational Video on Sea Turtles and Plastic Pollution appeared first on Oceanic Society.

Whether you want to snorkel in Fiji’s palm-shaded lagoons or amongst walls of soft-coral plunging to ocean depths, there’s an adventure for all experience levels.

Planning for Snorkeling in Fiji

Mild year-round climate, refreshing water-temperatures (averaging around 79ºF), and consistently crystal-clear visibility makes any time a good time to snorkel in Fiji. There are a few sites where ocean currents will attract wildlife at specific seasons (e.g., Manta Ray Passage), but unless otherwise noted, the calendar is wide open.

4,000 square miles of coral reefs is a lot of ocean to cover, so we recommend choosing just one or two regions depending on the length of your visit. Many travelers set up on one of Fiji’s islands and then embark on snorkel excursions via their accommodation or tour operator. Or, better yet, choose an expert guided, small group Fiji snorkeling trip that will allow you to visit the highlights while saving you from researching and managing logistics. 

Fiji has many coral reefs that are ideal for snorkeling. © Pete Oxford

Snorkeling in Fiji: The Must See Highlights

To experience the best of snorkeling in Fiji with limited time, here are our top sites: 

• Taveuni Island: The “garden island” of Fiji sits atop a shield volcano with a white-sand coast lined by coral reefs. Volcanic-rich soil also laid the foundation for jungle-clad parks that cover over one-third of the island. Find lodging at Paradise Taveuni, enjoy the plethora of reefs available by beach or boat, such as the legendary Rainbow Reef which is in striking distance.

• Rainbow Reef: Renowned oceanographer Jacques Cousteau deemed the Rainbow Reef the “soft coral capital of the world” after viewing the famous cliffs of flowing coral, like the Great White Wall, which plunges over 130 feet into the abyss. The Rainbow Reef complex spans over 4,000 square kilometers and is home to 1,200 exotic fish species. Numerous world-class snorkel sites are sprinkled throughout, including “the Zoo” – famous for pelagics, such as barracudas, trevallies, moray eels, and groupers.

• Beqa Lagoon: Easily accessible off of the southern coast of the mainland, Beqa Lagoon sits at the heart of one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. Set up an adventure hub at the Beqa Lagoon Resort for easy access to palm-shaded shallow water snorkeling, or take an excursion out to snorkel with the abundant reef sharks in the area. 

A tour with Oceanic Society ensures you hit the highlights. But, for those that want to go it alone, in the following sections we provide a high-level overview of the best snorkeling sites in Fiji, organized by region, with tips for each.

Northwest: Mamanuca and Yasawa Archipelago

Best snorkeling in Fiji for families and beginners. For those looking for the quintessential Fijian ocean adventure, there are few better places to go than this northwestern chain of islands – a region renowned for calm, clear waters, white-sand beaches, and a variety of beach and boat accessible reefs for snorkeling. 

Fiji’s northwestern archipelago is dotted with numerous pristine coral reefs, perfect for snorkeling.

Most travelers arrive using the Yasawa Flyer, a ferry service that leaves daily from Denarau Marina on the west coast of Fiji’s mainland, near Nadi and the international airport, stopping at 20 islands throughout the Mamanuca and Yasawa chain. Accommodations across the islands widely vary from luxury resorts to bustling backpacker hostels. Thankfully, crowds split across the islands, meaning you can easily find a quiet corner, or the party – whatever the preference.

Malolo Lailai: If you are based on the island, you will have no trouble finding vibrant, beach-accessible reefs and viewing diverse wildlife – sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and more – who dwell amongst the calm, clear waters of Malolo.

• Where: Quick 1-hour boat ride from either Denarau Marina or Lautoka. The island is small, just under 5 square miles, perfect for daily snorkeling expeditions.
• Who: An ideal introduction to Fiji for anyone looking to casually enjoy Fiji’s legendary waterworld. 

Blue Lagoon: Sapphire water tucked in a palm-shaded lagoon offers a gateway to a vibrant shallow reef teeming with tropical fish. 

• Where: The lagoon is situated on Nanuya Lailai Island, which – like Malolo – is easily accessible by boat from Denarau Marina or Lautoka.  
• Who: Well-developed infrastructure and calm, shallow waters makes the Blue Lagoon a top choice for families with young children looking to snorkel in Fiji.

Drawaqa Island: Renowned for viewing the majestic giant manta rays at the nearby Manta Ray Passage, especially from May to October, when currents bring abundant food. 

• Where: Manta Ray Passage is situated between Naviti and Drawaqa Island, visiting the passage is typically done through an organized tour, with many departing from Drawaqa Island. Be sure to arrange with a trusted tour operator to ensure wildlife is not disturbed.
• Who: Water depth varies, offering opportunities to both snorkelers and divers. Currents can be strong, so this option is more suited to intermediate swimmers.

Moyia Reef: Tucked on an uninhabited island, famous for the pristine quality of the reef and abundant (harmless!) reef sharks, who commonly feed in the area from January to April. 

• Where: Tours are required to visit and can easily be organized through accommodations or tour agencies. Trips are commonly organized from Kuanta Island, which is only a 20-minute boat ride away.
• Who: Isolation makes this a good option to escape the crowds. Ideal for intermediate or experienced snorkelers comfortable with currents and proximity with sharks. 

Nacula Island: Easy access to a network of both soft and hard coral reefs with excellent water visibility. 

• Where: More remote than comparable island hub alternatives, Nacula is a 4-hour ferry ride from the most common departure point, Denarau Marina.
• Who: Its location typically means fewer people. Surrounding currents can be strong, catering more to intermediate snorkelers.

Sawa-i-Lau Caves: Limestone carved arches, chambers, tunnels, and lagoons rising from the ocean floor, offering intrepid snorkelers an unforgettable aquatic adventure. The chamber acoustics birthed local legends, one of which tells of mermaids singing to lure lonely fishermen.

• Where: Operators across the Yasawa Islands offer guided boat tours to the caves, which often include stops for snorkeling, swimming, or beach excursions along the way.
• Who: Tours typically include experiences for anyone, but competent swimmers will be able to make the most of the various aquatic chambers.

Mainland: Viti Levu

Best snorkeling in Fiji for convenience: Reefs on or near Fiji’s mainland, Viti Levu, are perfect for those looking to tack on snorkeling to their Fiji adventure. Once you touchdown in Nadi or Suva, whatever the itinerary – whether you are heading north to explore Fiji’s Sun Coast or heading to the remote southern reaches (see section, South: Kadavu) – be sure to dedicate a few days to explore the mainland’s underrated marine ecosystems before or after you visit the more coveted remote corners of Fiji.

Fiji’s mainland can provide some convenient snorkeling options before or after exploring the more remote islands.

Beqa Lagoon: The lagoon sits at the heart of the Beqa Island group, one of the largest barrier reefs in the world with 190 miles of coral and a plethora of wildlife. Shark enthusiasts can dive amongst schools of bull and tiger sharks who commonly gather.

• Where: Visiting Beqa Lagoon requires a tour operator, but it is just 45-minutes by boat from Pacific Harbor, a popular hub on the southern coast of Viti Levu (~3 hour drive from Nadi). Consider lodging on Beqa Island for full immersion.
• Who: Abundant house reefs, boat tours, and diving opportunities means there is an experience for everyone, from beginner snorkelers to expert divers.

Rakiraki: An opportunity to explore some of the island’s healthiest coral reefs, lined by sprawling white-sand beaches, without the crowds. 

• Where: Nestled two hours away from Nadi on the northeast “Sun Coast” of Viti Levu, Rakiraki can easily slot into a mainland itinerary. 
• Who: Convenience and quiet paired with calm waters make this the perfect spot for families to indulge in a quiet Fijian snorkeling getaway. Boat tours to outer reefs offer intermediate snorkelers adventures as well.

Vatu-I-Ra Passage: An ocean channel famous for its purple and pink coral and nutrient rich waters that attract abundant ocean life, including sharks, giant clams, rays, and sea turtles. The passage is part of the Vatu-I-Ra Conservation Park, including Vatu-I-Ra Island, which is loaded with top snorkeling sites. If you are visiting between August and October, you may even witness humpback whales in this migration corridor.

• Where: The passage nestles between VoliVoli and Vatu-I-Ra Island, within the greater Bligh Waters region off the sun coast of Viti Levu. Tours are also commonly organized from Rakiraki.
• Who: A wide variety of water depths in the passage offers snorkeling experiences for all levels, beginners to experts.

Northeast: Vanua Levu and Taveuni

Best snorkeling in Fiji for biodiversity. The northeastern islands, Vanua Levu and Taveuni, hold some of the most pristine sanctuaries for snorkeling in Fiji due to their remoteness, nutrient rich tides, and longstanding environmental protection enforced by the local community. 

Fiji’s northeastern islands are renowned for snorkeling and the health of their coral reefs.

A domestic flight from Nadi to Labasa, Vanua Levu or Matei, Taveuni is the quickest route. Otherwise, ferries from Natovi Landing on the east coast of the mainland to Savusavu, Vanua Levu will take around 4 hours. The ferry from Suva to Taveuni Island takes ~13 hours and is not for the sea-sick prone. Once on Vanua Levu or Taveuni, accommodations vary, ranging from eco-lodges to boutique hotels, with price points available for all budgets.

Rainbow Reef: Deemed the “soft coral capital of the world” by legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, who was awestruck by the sprawling walls of soft coral – such as the Great White Wall, which plunges 131 feet deep and shelters countless tropical fish. 

• Where: Located in the Somosomo Strait between Vanua Levu and Taveuni. Boat tours are required to explore the Rainbow Reef and its popular snorkel sites, such as the Great White Wall, the Zoo (famous for abundant wildlife) and the Cabbage Patch (known for coral formations that resemble its namesake). Tours are commonly organized from both Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
• Who: Snorkel sites vary in water depth and current strength, so there is typically an option for all experience levels.

Namena Marine Reserve: Designated as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) since 1997 (placing a total ban on fishing) following rampant commercial fishing, Namena is now home to more than 1,100 species of fish, including sharks. If you are lucky, you may see humpback whales who raise their calves (especially from August-October) in these nutrient rich waters

• Where: The park is located on the uninhabited Namena Island off the south coast of Vanua Levu. The best way to visit is through a tour operator, which can usually be arranged from accommodations based on Vanua Levu or Savusavu. 
• Who: Varying water depth and current strength across the numerous snorkel sites within the park means that there is a suitable snorkel excursion for all experience levels.

Waitabu Marine Park: Like Namena, Waitabu has been designated as a MPA since the 1990s and has turned into a complex of healthy coral reefs. The local community manages the park through Waitabu Marine Park Trust, and offers eco-tours for curious travelers looking to learn about local conservation efforts and while experiencing the full breadth of the park.

• Where: The MPA covers approximately 356 acres of land on Taveuni, making it easy to explore while staying on the island.
• Who: Numerous snorkeling locations – including shallow, shore accessible reefs as well as boat tours and dive spots – cater to all experience levels.

Split Rock: An obscure lava formation appearing like a gash across a pinnacle of rock, creating a canyon of coral. Divers can swim through the gap. Split Rock regularly attracts a diverse array of marine life: tropical fish, snappers, reef sharks, eels, rays are commonly seen. 

• Where: Situated just east of Savusavu on Vanua Levu. Boat tours, usually departing from Savusavu, are required to visit Split Rock.
• Who: While primarily a dive site due its depth and strong currents, snorkeling is possible in the area surrounding the pinnacle for those who are comfortable swimmers.

South: Kadavu

Best snorkeling in Fiji for hidden gems. Nestled in the southern reaches of Fiji’s archipelago lies Kadavu, a jungle-clad island renowned for its rugged beauty and untouched marine environments. Often overshadowed by more popular tourist destinations, Kadavu offers adventurous travelers a unique off the beaten path experience and some of the best snorkeling in Fiji, while surrounded by dramatic landscapes and lush marine wildlife. 

The southern islands may be more remote, but offer some of the best snorkeling in Fiji.

Getting to Kadavu typically requires a quick ~45-minute domestic flight from either Nadi or Suva to Vunisea. Otherwise, a ferry runs between Suva and Vunisea or Kavala, and takes ~5.5 hours. Be warned: the waters of the Kadavu Passage are notoriously rough, so be sure to come prepared for a choppy journey. Accommodation options are more limited than other well-worn islands, but there are a handful of eco-friendly resorts, guesthouses, and even homestays that offer laid-back atmospheres and connection with the local community. Kadavu is accessible by domestic flights.

Great Astrolabe Reef: The 4th largest barrier reef in the world stretching along the eastern coast of Kadavu. The barrier reef is situated amongst a network of passages with strong currents, creating a breeding ground for big giants: marlin, tuna, giant trevally, and sharks are commonly seen. If you’re lucky, you may even see dolphins and whales.

• Where: Consider staying on Ono Island, an isolated paradise situated near the Great Astrolabe Reef, and only a 10-minute boat ride to a cleaning station where manta rays are tended to by local wrasse.
• Who: With hundreds of snorkel sites to choose from, there are experiences for all kinds of snorkelers.

Snorkeling in Fiji with Oceanic Society

Tour Fiji with Oceanic Society for an unforgettable ocean adventure taking travelers to a selection of handpicked snorkel sites, including the Rainbow Reef, Beqa Lagoon, and numerous reefs surrounding Taveuni. For a comprehensive South Pacific ocean adventure, consider combining a trip to Fiji with Tonga for the rare opportunity to swim amongst humpback whales.

Oceanic Society has been leading sustainable snorkeling tours for 50 years. Our team of naturalists have deep roots with the environments we visit, ensuring our interactions with wildlife are ethical, respectful, and benefit the ecosystems and economies we visit. As a bonus, each traveler booking a multi-day trip with Oceanic Society directly sponsors the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean as part of our ongoing fight against ocean pollution. 

The post Snorkeling in Fiji: The Complete Guide appeared first on Oceanic Society.

The workshop, titled “Developing Behavior Change Strategies for Sea Turtle Conservation,” was organized and led by Team BEACH, a partnership between Oceanic Society, Human Nature Group, and Disney Conservation. With support from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Sea Turtle SAFE program, we convened more than 40 people from more than a dozen countries to participate. It was the second such workshop led by Team BEACH; the first was held in Cartagena, Colombia in March 2023.

The goal of the workshop was to introduce behavior change theory and social science to sea turtle conservation practitioners, as well as to put those principles and techniques into practice with real-world examples. While many sea turtle conservation organizations implement outreach programs in their communities, not all of them are designed with tangible behavior change goals and evaluation plans. Through this training workshop, Team BEACH aims to help conservation practitioners to improve their programs’ impacts.

Designing Behavior Change Campaigns: Workshop & Training

For this workshop, Team BEACH solicited and selected case studies from our global network of practitioners — real world examples of sea turtle conservation challenges that require behavior change solutions — with an emphasis on programs addressing issues of sea turtle take and trade in Southeast Asia. Four case studies were selected, and those were presented at the workshop for discussion. In addition, members of Team BEACH presented an overview of behavior change theory, as well as Team BEACH’s framework for designing and evaluating behavior change campaigns.

The following case studies were presented and discussed at the workshop:

Organization: Fauna & Flora Myanmar
Location: Ayeyarwaddy, Tanintharyi, and Rakhine region, Myanmar
Challenge: Bycatch
Focus: Working with fishermen to change fishing practices, promoting safe handling of turtles, and reducing environmental pollution.

Organization: Anambas Foundation
Location: Teluk Dalam Island, Sunggak Village, Anambas Islands Indonesia
Challenge: Illegal harvesting of turtles and eggs
Focus: Reducing illegal egg harvesting and promoting turtle protection among fishers in Sunggak Village.

Organization: Lestari NGO, Zoo Liberec, and Andalas University
Location: Pulau Banyak and Nias, Sumatra, Indonesia
Challenge: Illegal harvest and trafficking of sea turtles
Focus: Strengthening local surveillance at sea, collaboration with law enforcement, and targeting Nias fishers to reduce turtle harvests.

Organization: CURMA
Location: La Union, Philippines
Challenge: Managing tourism influx
Focus: Creating protective policies and awareness campaigns to promote responsible tourism and protect sea turtles from disturbances.

The workshop kicked off with an introductory discussion of various behavioral science theories, focusing on understanding audiences and the catalysts of human behavior—integral components for designing successful campaigns and projects. Participants learned about best practices, common pitfalls, and hurdles encountered when employing behavioral science, as well as the most effective approaches for specific scenarios.

From there, participants divided into four groups, each assigned to a case study, to brainstorm effective behavior change solutions for the respective challenges. Guided by a specialized behavior change action plan and toolkit, this exercise aimed to deconstruct the elements of each case study for a more nuanced understanding and targeted behavioral interventions.

Participants were then tasked with presenting their solutions to the wider group, fostering open dialogues about each proposed solution with fellow workshop participants. By the workshop’s conclusion, attendees had gleaned insights from behavior change experts and successfully applied these insights to real-life scenarios faced by sea turtle conservation professionals.

Travel Grants Sponsor Workshop Participation

Thanks to support from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oceanic Society was able to fund the participation of 14 sea turtle conservation practitioners from throughout the Southeast Asia region, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Not only were the travel grant recipients able to attend the Team BEACH workshop, but also the entire 42nd International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand, at which they had the opportunity to learn and exchange with more than 500 members of the global research and conservation community.

Next Steps

Following the workshop, the Team BEACH coordinators will review and refine the recommendations and draft plans that were developed for each case study, and will ultimately provide a behavior change strategy back to each participating organization. Case studies will also be shared online and among the Team BEACH network—for examples of what this will look like, explore the case studies and strategies from last year’s workshop.

About Team BEACH

Team BEACH (BE A CHangemaker) is a global network that aims to strengthen and measure the impact of sea turtle education and outreach projects worldwide. It is a platform to support knowledge and resource sharing among conservationists and social scientists seeking to promote outreach strategies that result in meaningful behavior change. Launched by the State of the World’s Sea Turtles Program / Oceanic Society and Disney Conservation, Team BEACH is now a growing network of dozens in the sea turtle community managed by Roderic Mast, Brian Hutchinson, Ashleigh Bandimere, Lindsay Mosher (Oceanic Society/SWOT), and Rachel Smith, and Kelley Anderson (Human Nature Group).

Learn more about Team BEACH in our recent publication: How Behavioral Science (and Team BEACH) Can Help Sea Turtles

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SWOT Report, vol 19 was launched at the 42nd International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand and online on March 25, 2024. More than 1,000 printed copies of the report were distributed free-of-charge to the hundreds of sea turtle researchers and conservationists who attended the Symposium from all over the world.

Published each year since 2006, The State of the World’s Sea Turtles (SWOT) Report features success stories, innovations, and new findings in sea turtle conservation and research. The report is produced in collaboration with a global network of sea turtle researchers and conservationists, and given back to the community free-of-charge for use in outreach and education efforts.

Oceanic Society staff present the first copy of SWOT Report, vol. 19 to local dignitaries at the International Sea Turtle Symposium in Pattaya, Thailand.

Highlights from Volume 19 Include:

• A multi-country special feature article on the sea turtles of Southeast Asia, with information about sea turtle research and conservation in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
• All new maps of sea turtle nesting and satellite tracking data from throughout Southeast Asia created in partnership with hundreds of researchers throughout the region.

Researchers from the Anambas Foundation monitor a nesting green turtle in Indonesia’s Anambas Islands. SWOT Report, vol 19 includes sea turtle data from throughout Southeast Asia. © Anambas Foundation

• Expert answers to frequently asked questions: How Deep do Sea Turtles Dive? and How Long Can Sea Turtles Hold Their Breath?
• Articles exploring current conservation and research topics, including innovative ways to address plastic pollution (More Turtles, Less Plastic), traditional conservation approaches in the Maldives (Returning to Home Shores and Traditions in the Maldives), new information about hawksbill turtles in the eastern Pacific (Lost Years Project Yields Surprises About Eastern Pacific Hawksbills), and an overview of the known and unknown impacts of climate change on sea turtles (Turning Up the Heat on Sea Turtles).

We are grateful to all of the authors, data providers, and photographers who made this volume of SWOT Report possible, as well as the following donors for their support of the SWOT Program in 2023–2024: Betlach Family Foundation, Marisa I. Hormel Trust, Moore Family Foundation, Seiko, Joseph and Diane Steinberg, Mark Swingle, and Upwell Coffee, as well as the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ Sea Turtle SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) Program and its partners, including: Adventure Aquarium, Aquarium of the Pacific, Audubon Nature Institute, Florida Aquarium, Gladys Porter Zoo, Mystic Aquarium, National Aquarium, New England Aquarium, North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island, OdySea Aquarium, Remote Ecologist Inc., SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium, South Carolina Aquarium, Texas State Aquarium, The Aquarium at Moody Gardens, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center, and Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

About the State of the World’s Sea Turtles Program

Founded in 2003, the SWOT program is led by Oceanic Society and a growing international network of institutions and individuals. This powerful group—the SWOT Team—works to compile and publish global sea turtle data that support conservation and management efforts at the international, national, and local scales. Learn more about Oceanic Society’s global sea turtle conservation programs here.

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To make matters worse, much of the Watamu community competed for the same dwindling natural resources. Local fishermen wanted to fish coral reefs for their own livelihoods, while dive operators sought to protect the reefs for ecotourism. Resorts blocked beach vendors from hotel grounds as they sought to isolate their increasingly few wealthy customers, and the trickle-down economic impacts of affluent visitors ceased.

The crisis led to a gathering amongst representatives from local businesses, environmentalists, and tourism operators to discuss the challenge and find solutions. The result was simple: plastic waste could be removed from the coastline and repurposed as part of a “circular economy”, thereby protecting the environment while creating jobs.

“The circular economy simply redirects waste, it doesn’t dispose of it,” explained Steve Trott, a long-time naturalist with the Oceanic Society and founder of Watamu Marine Association (WMA), a nonprofit based in Watamu. WMA was born from the crisis in 2009 with the mission to repurpose pollution into artwork and consumer goods entirely made from plastic.

Transforming Local Economies

“Our big focus is on plastic, as plastic has a high value and… is the big problem,” said Trott. Since the launch of their programs, over 500 community members in Watamu now earn income by selling plastic they’ve collected from the beach to WMA, removing on average 10 to 20 tons of plastic from the coastline each month. Hotels that once shunned local vendors now sponsor beach cleaners to visit their resorts.

Although plastic pollution must be eliminated entirely to effectively protect the planet from its damaging effects, existing plastic must also be removed from the ecosystems they already pollute. This removal process not only presents an economic opportunity for those that collect and repurpose the waste, but also protects valuable community eco-tourism assets like beaches and coral reefs which attract wealthy tourists both from within Kenya and internationally.

Yet the job creation in rural Kenya doesn’t end with collecting and reselling plastics. Recycling facilities run by WMA’s partner, Eco-World, then process the collected material – thus creating more jobs and training workers with high-value skills. Then, artisan handcrafters receive the recycled material and transform it into beautiful pieces of art and bags, which they sell to tourists.

“We’ve now created dynamic plastic waste value chains. We’ve now created jobs – income – for hundreds of people. And we’ve now redirected all of that recyclable waste away from the waste disposal stream. So this is the ‘circular economy’, this is how it can work,” said Trott.

Creating Opportunity

The jobs created by the circular economy programs are a viable source of income for many in Watamu and across coastal Kenya. Winfred Mutua, a Watamu local, has worked with WMA and Eco-World in various capacities for the last 15 years.

She initially learned about the potential of plastic collection as a source of income when she joined an ocean cleanup event 15 years ago. At the time she worked as a shopkeeper, but the difficult economic conditions in Watamu meant she struggled to support her family with an income. Working in plastic waste management opened her eyes to new business opportunities.

Winfred Mutua sorts through plastic waste at an Eco-World processing facility.

“Before we joined WMA, plastic was scattered everywhere. The community did not know the usefulness of plastics or the management of waste plastics,” Winfred shared. She continued, “So people were not bothering with how to collect. But when we joined WMA, we got training. We were trained on how to manage waste, plastics, and make them useful. So for now, I can say WMA has improved our lives because now we know how we can manage plastic and make our place’s beaches free from plastic pollution.”

Now, through her work with WMA she is able to afford to educate her children and pay rent for their family home. In the future, she hopes to build on the success of Watamu’s circular economy programs and to educate people on proper plastic pollution waste management.

Fostering a Global Movement with Oceanic Society

The potential for partnership with circular economy efforts in hotspots like Watamu extends well beyond the local businesses. For example, each individual booking of a multi-day trip with Oceanic Society directly sponsors the removal of 200 pounds of plastic pollution by funding the salaries of beach cleaners at WMA. Additionally, Oceanic Society’s award winning tour of Kenya takes visitors to Watamu, where they will see the circular economy work firsthand after experiencing the area’s natural wonders.

“That partnership has created a link between Oceanic Society clients and how they can link directly to our beach cleaners and recyclers here in Watamu on the Kenya coast,” Trott explained. “It’s not often that you see a direct flow of support and funds actually going 100 percent to the effort on the ground, which then have 100 percent impact and a direct environmental impact, a direct conservation impact, a direct and measurable socio-economic impact for local communities.”

Steve Trott (center-left) and Winfred Mutua (center-right) collecting plastic waste with other beach cleaners near Watamu.

The benefits of the circular economy are not only felt at the grassroots level. The plastic recycling programs that WMA and Eco-World implement have been lauded as frontrunners in sustainable waste management by the U.S. government. The Kenyan government has since taken action to protect their natural wonders – a core aspect of the economy – from the damaging effects of plastic waste. They banned single use plastic bags in 2017 and followed up with barring single-use plastics from national parks, beaches, and conservation areas. New regulations will force companies selling products in Kenya to reduce their waste starting in 2024.

Trott anticipates that WMA will provide income to over 1,000 people as beach cleaners, collecting over 50 tons of plastic waste per month by the end of 2024.

He hopes the model can be replicated around the world, “If we can do it in Watamu, then clearly it can be done in other resort towns and not just in Kenya… our plans are to expand it to the East Africa coastline. But this is a model that can be replicated in developing countries and especially coastal resort towns that have a hotel industry producing waste, producing recyclable waste.”

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While swimming with whale sharks (the world’s biggest fish) can be done in a number of places, swimming with whales is possible in just a few special locations. Whales are sensitive creatures, and to swim with whales requires careful planning to ensure both the safety of the animals and people.

Oceanic Society has led environmentally sustainable wildlife encounters for the last 55 years, with a deep commitment to ocean conservation. Below are some handpicked travel opportunities led by our team of naturalists that will get you close, safely and responsibly, with these ocean giants, while also supporting their protection.

Swim with Humpback Whales

First, you may hear their songs, hauntingly beautiful chords announcing their arrival. Then, imagine creatures — larger than school buses — drifting gracefully into view from the depths. The deep gaze of their eyes or a gentle nudge between a mom and her calf could be moments that stay with you forever.

Travelers swim with a humpback whale in Silver Bank, Dominican Republic, one of just a handful of places on Earth where this experience is possible.

This is swimming with humpback whales, the famous acrobats and explorers of the ocean. A species that exhibits unique language (even local dialects), cultures, and a gentle disposition.

While humpbacks may be most famous for spiraling through the air, few realize that they are one of the most migratory animals on the planet. One humpback tracked traveling over 10,000 miles between warm-water breeding and icy hunting grounds.

Where to swim with humpbacks? Oceanic Society’s tour to Tonga, named one of National Geographic Traveler’s 50 Tours of a Lifetime, is designed around the chance to swim with humpback whales. Each year, thousands of humpbacks migrate from feeding areas near Antarctica to the tropical waters of Tonga, where they mate, give birth, and nurse their young.

On the opposite side of the earth, the Dominican Republic’s Silver Bank hosts the largest congregation of humpback whales in the world. In the warm Caribbean waters, they gather to breed and raise their young, allowing humans to swim amongst them during this tender time.

When is the best time to go? Oceanic Society leads tours to Tonga in August and September, considered the best time frame to swim with whales. The congregation in the Dominican Republic reaches its peak in March, which is the perfect time to listen to whale songs, swim amongst new mothers and their calves, and witness their famous acrobatics.

Swim with Whale Sharks

Many cultures revere whale sharks as legendary creatures. In Mexico, ancient Mayan artifacts seemingly depict whale sharks. Kenyan legends explain that their spotted pattern is because the gods showered them in coins. Amongst the Labuan Bajo near Komodo, Indonesia, whale sharks are “god’s fish” who rescue fishermen in crisis.

A snorkeler swims beside a whale shark in Indonesia. © Pete Oxford

When you swim with whale sharks, which grow to more than 40 feet, it is easy to understand the mythos. Their starry skin mirrors constellations in the sky. They are solitary beings, usually feeding alone in tropical waters before disappearing into the ocean’s twilight, diving as deep as 6,000 feet. Only in 1995 did researchers learn how they reproduce, when a dead female was caught holding over 300 eggs at varying stages of development.

Thankfully for ocean adventurers, whale sharks don’t seem to mind company. Humans can tag along with other fish hitchhiking on the backs of whale sharks as they vacuum swathes of plankton.

Where to swim with whale sharks? The Sea of Cortez, sandwiched between the Baja peninsula and Mexico’s mainland, is one of the best locations in the world for swimming with whale sharks. Oceanic Society leads whale shark snorkeling expeditions in La Paz.

Meanwhile, swimming with whale sharks in Komodo National Park might be the region’s best kept secret. As tourists swarm the rugged island landscape to view the iconic dragons, whale sharks swim just off the coast amongst the vibrant waters of the Coral Triangle.

With luck, whale sharks can also be seen as part of other Oceanic Society adventures in the Azores, Portugal, in the waters of the Indian Ocean on our Seychelles cruise, and in other parts of Indonesia, such as Raja Ampat and the Banda Sea.

When is the best time to go? Whale sharks are best seen in the Sea of Cortez from December through April, which coincides with other migratory species — including humpback whales and the famously friendly gray whales.

Experiencing Komodo National Park is best in the dry season, April through November, which sees whale sharks feeding in the nearby tropical waters.

Sustainable and Ethical Wildlife Encounters

Swimming with whales is possible in many locations throughout the world, as is the opportunity to encounter whale sharks. However, these animals are not only threatened, but are also sensitive to disturbances from both people and boats. Oceanic Society only leads tours to swim with whales and whale sharks in places where tourism is managed effectively and local operators are taking steps to minimize the impacts of tourism on these animals. Working with a trusted operator is essential to ensure that the experience is ethical, legal, and protects rather than exploits the environment.

Learn more about how Oceanic Society’s ecotourism model transforms local economies to value wildlife as a dependable tourism asset rather than a consumable good. Each traveler that books a multi-day Oceanic Society tour directly sponsors the removal of 200 pounds of plastic from the ocean. Plastic removal not only helps to keep our oceans and coasts beautiful, it also helps protect the habitat of vulnerable species and provides job opportunities in impoverished communities.

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Since 2006, SWOT’s small grants have helped field-based partners around the world to realize an array of important research and conservation goals. To date, 160 grants have been awarded to 125 applicants in more than 57 countries and territories. The grants awarded in 2023 were made possible through generous support from the Betlach Family Foundation, the Joseph S. and Diane H. Steinberg 1992 Charitable Trust, the Moore Family Foundation, and the AZA-SAFE program, as described below.

For the fifth consecutive year, SWOT partnered with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and its Sea Turtle SAFE (Saving Animals from Extinction) program to make 12 additional grants for projects related to the conservation of two of the top global priorities for sea turtle conservation—eastern Pacific leatherbacks and Kemp’s ridley turtles. Those grantees are marked with a (*) on the list below.

Meet Our 2023 Sea Turtle Grant Recipients

Sea turtle patrol dog Kilo has many fans! He not only protects nesting turtles but also raises awareness in the community. © Fundação Tartaruga

Fundação Tartaruga (Cabo Verde) will bring one of their beach patrol protection dogs, named Kilo, to local schools in Boa Vista to raise awareness and inspire children to care for nature by protecting sea turtles, not consuming or selling turtle products, and reducing and recycling plastic waste.  

Sea Sense (Tanzania) will expand its current conservation and research programs by training groups of community “conservation officers” in techniques to better understand, monitor, and protect sea turtle foraging habitats and assure safe connectivity to nesting beaches.

Tetepare Descendants Association (Solomon Islands) will provide necessary field equipment and training to its rangers, thereby strengthening its sea turtle nesting beach monitoring program that protects animals and gathers valuable conservation data in partnership with local and international partners. 

Science of Identity Foundation (SifCARE) (Philippines) will educate children and community members on plastic pollution mitigation and sea turtle conservation through their CURMA Reef Experience Program. Participants will strengthen their connection to nature through beach cleanups and activities to maintain sea turtle hatcheries. 

Sea turtles can help connect people with nature and create ocean stewards. © SifCARE

Safe Earth Foundation (Nigeria) will hold a workshop for artisanal fishers and law enforcement agencies to strengthen local participation in marine conservation and bycatch data collection, and encourage more proactive and efficient enforcement of illegal take laws.

National Center for Environmental Research (CNRE) (Madagascar) will conduct a field-based assessment in the Besalampy coastal region of Northwestern Madagascar to fill data gaps on nesting sea turtles that will inform population estimates, create an inventory of nesting sites, understand habitat use, and build a conservation strategy. 

© Anambas Foundation / Abdulrahman Ritonga

Anambas Foundation (Indonesia) will encourage local involvement in sea turtle conservation and tourism in the Anamabas Islands Marine Protected Area by combining socio-ecological research and community engagement. 

* Sea Turtle, Inc. (U.S.A.) will host a STEM Summer Camp, at which teenagers will study ocean conservation through water quality measuring, marine species ID, and field trips to document microplastics. Participants will advance their scientific literacy, and learn how to help oceans and Kemp’s ridleys.

* Centro ECOMAR-UAGro (Mexico) will teach students and fishermen from Guerrero about sea turtles, including eastern Pacific leatherbacks, and how to diminish fishery bycatch and to behave in ways that positively impact sea turtles and the ocean.  

* Campamento Tortuguero Ayotlcalli A.C. (Mexico) will lead an outreach and education campaign – Warriors of the Rainbow – aimed at school-aged children, community members, fishermen, and service providers to keep eastern Pacific leatherbacks and their habitats safe. 

* Kuemar (Costa Rica) will conduct educational talks for tourists and operators at three important eastern Pacific leatherback sites. The project aims to reduce disturbances to nesting females, and raise awareness about the consequences of improper waste disposal.

Fishing practices and discarded gear are the number one threat to sea turtles. This Kemp’s ridley turtle was lucky enough to have this hook removed from its mouth. © South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR)

* South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) (U.S.A.) will post bilingual signs at coastal piers in South Carolina with NOAA’s “Recommendations to Reduce Injuries if You Hook or Entangle a Sea Turtle,” and stranding hotline information to ensure rescue of injured and cold-stunned Kemp’s ridleys.

* JUSTSEA Foundation (Colombia) will provide port-side training, workshops, and presentations to anglers and fishing cooperatives, to reduce leatherback bycatch, foster collaboration, and promote sustainable fishing practices that reduce sea turtle impacts. 

* Elizabeth Labastida Estrada (Mexico) will obtain, for the first time, viral sequences of ChHV5, the virus that causes fibropapillomatosis, from Kemp’s ridley turtles in Rancho Nuevo to determine if there are genetic variations that distinguish the viral strain from that found in other sea turtle species.

* César Paúl Ley-Quiñónez (Mexico) will quantify the concentrations of trace elements in the blood of nesting Kemp’s ridleys at Rancho Nuevo to determine potential threats to population health and learn more about toxic pollutants, a poorly known threat to Kemp’s ridley turtles.

As one of the most endangered sea turtle populations, it’s important to understand all of the threats to eastern Pacific leatherbacks, including the quantity and identity of trace metals that the mother turtle passes on to her babies. © Mildred Alpizar Quezada

* Mildred Alpizar Quezada (Mexico) will evaluate the concentration of trace metals in dead leatherback hatchlings found at Playa Tierra Colorada, one of the main nesting beaches for eastern Pacific leatherbacks in Mexico. 

* GroBios A.C. (Mexico) will create standard protocols for projects in Guerrero state to conserve eastern Pacific leatherbacks and their habitats. They’ll also conduct training and provide institutional strengthening support to fill data and protection gaps throughout the state. 

* Gladys Porter Zoo (Mexico) will initiate a PIT tagging program at Altamira and Miramar, two important satellite nesting beaches for Kemp’s ridleys near Rancho Nuevo, as part of the Mexico-U.S. Binational Kemp’s Ridley Recovery Program. 

* Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo (Mexico) will conduct research at Mexiquillo, a historically important nesting beach for eastern Pacific leatherbacks, that will determine the sex ratio of hatchery nests, and help to inform conservation efforts for this rookery.

© Carlos Delgado-Trejo

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