The data collected will go into a collective record of where these animals are being found or migrating to, giving a better understanding of their behaviour that is crucial in helping to effectively protect them.
Noble Caledonia’s head of expedition field operations Pamela Le Noury said: ‘We are keen to offer Citizen Science as part of our expedition product. This will be an opportunity for our passengers to participate in data collection for scientific research as well as other projects, such as beach clean-ups and wildlife monitoring, whilst on board one of our expedition voyages, many of which are operated in the some of the most remote places on the Planet.’
ORCA Wildlife Officers will kick off the programme with on board training for staff and crew on three Noble Caledonia operated vessels - Ocean Nova, Serenissima and Island Sky - when they pass through Portsmouth in May.
In addition ORCA staff will be travelling on Ocean Diamond’s expedition to Iceland in June this year to assist and provide lectures on its conservation programmes.
‘ORCA is delighted to be partnering with Noble Caledonia to help with this new programme of citizen science at sea. Our team are looking forward to being able to collect vital research in some of the most exciting habitats on the planet, as well as giving staff and passengers aboard Noble Caledonia ships the chance to make a direct contribution to marine conservation. Together we are hoping to help safeguard whales and dolphins for future generations,’ remarked ORCA director, Sally Hamilton.
Noble Caledonia md Tim Cochrane said, ‘The opportunity to join in with some of the scientific research being undertaken by our knowledgeable and experienced expedition team members, many of whom are experts in their own fields, will, I am sure, enhance guest experience on our expedition tours.’
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