In a commendable effort to celebrate World Oceans Day, Royal Caribbean Group has partnered with Inter Miami CF and the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science to launch an ambitious coral restoration initiative. This collaboration aims to foster coral gardening and reef restoration, creating a thousand new coral colonies in the waters off Miami's coast.
Royal Caribbean Group's commitment to ocean health is exemplified through its partnership with the Rescue a Reef program. The initiative, supported by Inter Miami CF, will sponsor six months of coral restoration expeditions. This citizen science program is designed to engage the local South Florida community, providing hands-on opportunities for coral gardening and reef restoration.
To mark the significance of World Oceans Day, Inter Miami's midfielder and Miami native, Benjamin Cremaschi, joined the coral restoration efforts. Alongside Nick Rose, vice president and head of ESG at Royal Caribbean Group, Cremaschi participated in the inaugural dive at the newly established "Royal Caribbean Group Reef." This site will serve as a critical location for coral research and rehabilitation, ultimately fostering vibrant marine ecosystems.
Royal Caribbean Group and Inter Miami CF participating in coral gardening efforts
Coral reefs play a crucial role in marine ecosystems. They provide habitat, food, and nursery grounds for a vast array of marine species. The restoration of these reefs is vital to maintaining healthy and productive marine environments. Diego Lirman, professor of marine biology and ecology and director of the Rescue a Reef program, emphasised, "Reef restoration is a vital component of maintaining healthy and productive coral reefs. Coral reefs provide food, coastline protection and boundless recreation for ocean enthusiasts."
For Benjamin Cremaschi, the project holds personal significance. "As a Key Biscayne native, I've always had a special appreciation for the ocean. That's why it was important to me to team up with Royal Caribbean to do my part in maintaining the health of our oceans," he shared. The hope is that community involvement in these restoration efforts will inspire ongoing conservation activities.
Royal Caribbean Group's partnership with the University of Miami Rosenstiel School spans several decades, driving essential research on ocean health, including coral reefs. The collaboration with Rescue a Reef and Inter Miami CF, Royal Caribbean International's official vacation partner, is a testament to the company's dedication to raising awareness about the importance of coral reefs.
In addition to the restoration efforts, Royal Caribbean Group is engaging its guests with educational content. The company has launched a video series developed in partnership with OceanScope, a University of Miami program that equips Royal Caribbean ships with instruments to gather critical oceanographic data. These videos will be accessible through the Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises mobile apps, and on Silversea's stateroom TVs, introducing guests to ocean research topics.
Royal Caribbean Group is committed to making ocean conservation a part of the guest experience. Ships worldwide will feature activities such as onboard walks to support endangered sea turtles and youth programming to highlight the importance of healthy oceans. These initiatives aim to educate guests about the significance of ocean conservation and inspire them to contribute to these efforts.
Royal Caribbean Group's dedication to sustainability extends beyond World Oceans Day. The company's mission to deliver the best vacation responsibly is encapsulated in their broader commitment to "SEA the Future." This initiative focuses on sustaining the planet, energising communities, and accelerating innovation. For more information on Royal Caribbean Group's sustainability efforts, visit their sustainability page.
The partnership between Royal Caribbean Group, Inter Miami CF, and the University of Miami is a shining example of community-driven conservation efforts. By involving local communities in coral gardening and restoration, they are fostering a sustainable future for our oceans.
To plan your next eco-friendly cruise and contribute to ocean conservation, get in touch with a travel adviser at S.W. Black Travel. Let's work together to protect and preserve our oceans for future generations.