In recent years, coral restoration has become one of the biggest things in marine conservation, as more and more organizations work to replant and regenerate coral reefs in the region.
Until now, that work has largely been the purview of marine biologists and professionals. But thanks to a novel initiative by one of the Caribbean’s top luxury resorts, visitors to St Barth can actually get a hands-on experience in the process.
The award-winning Le Barthelemy Hotel and Spa has announced a new program in partnership with Coral Restoration St Barth that allows guests to go snorkeling or diving with conservationists and actually replant coral around the island.
The proceeds generated from the experience will be donated to Coral Restoration St Barth.
“This expanded partnership with Coral Restoration St. Barth builds on our unwavering reverence for the ocean, which permeates the entire Le Barthélemy experience. Bringing guests under-the-sea to experience the delicate state of the coral habitats and species, and first-hand rehabilitating the reef will not only help to regenerate nature but also to inspire more impactful environmental stewardship and contributions towards protecting what we love,” said Sébastien Maingourd, Regional General Manager of Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa and Le Barth Villa Rental.
Guests can learn about the delicate coral reef species around the island, snorkel and replant coral around St Barth — along with helping to manage the lion fish that are a major problem for the Caribbean marine ecosystem.
“The protection of the coral reefs and the flora and fauna they shelter are crucial to the well being of our island and surrounding natural habitats. Throughout the eight years that we’ve had a partnership with Le Barthélemy, their contributions have helped us to not only restore some of the coral reefs on our island but also to continue to educate visitors and St. Barths residents about the importance of protecting our coastal communities.” said David Blandchard, President of Coral Restoration St. Barth.
It’s the latest marine conservation program for the resort, which has been partnering with the Coral Restoration project since 2016.
The hotel has already donated more than 60,000 Euros to environmental organizations working to regenerate the island.
For more, visit Le Barthelemy.