THE CONNECTION BETWEEN YACHTING AND CONSERVATION: OUR SHARED RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT OUR OCEANS
Dedication to the cause of preservation of our oceans with innovation and sustainable practices is essential if we are to continue enjoying the magic of the open seas. At West Coast International, we believe that protecting the seas is imperative, not just an option, so we can cherish them and all creatures within, far into the future.
One inspiring example of such dedication and innovation is Dutch entrepreneur Wietse van der Werf, whose Sea Ranger Service blends ocean conservation with youth employment. The Sea Ranger Service recruits and trains young people from coastal areas, then employs them to work on vital sea conservation projects. For example restoring seagrass meadows in the Netherlands and using drones for monitoring vessel activities, the Sea Ranger Service shows how collaboration between governments, scientists, and corporations can deliver results. This proactive approach not only helps to protect ocean ecosystems but also creates maritime career opportunities and reminds us that we can all play a role in protecting marine biodiversity.
The seas provide 70% of the Earth’s oxygen and are crucial for global food security and climate regulation. While we seafarers enjoy the privilege of exploring the most pristine areas of the world’s oceans, we need also to take some responsibility. Supporting sustainable initiatives like the service above, aligns with our shared goal of ensuring these waters remain vibrant and alive for generations to come.
The Sea Ranger Service empowers the next generation of maritime enthusiasts, by investing in young people. Through rigorous training, recruits are prepared to handle the challenges of the sea, by learning the skills that make them not only stewards of the environment but also future leaders in the maritime industry. For us at West Coast International, yacht charter enthusiasts, this resonates deeply as many of the skilled professionals who crew luxury yachts today started as passionate young individuals with a maritime dream. Supporting youth-focused maritime initiatives ensures the future of both sustainable seas and world-class yachting experiences.
The Sea Ranger Service’s ambitious mission and commitment to restore 1 million hectares of ocean biodiversity by 2040 and employ 20,000 young people in maritime careers, should inspire us all to set bold goals to ensure the health of our planet. At West Coast International we actively promote sustainable yachting practices offering eco-friendly itineraries, which minimize the environmental impact on the destinations we visit. We choose sustainable yachts designed with modern technology that reduces emissions and fuel consumption.We also develop partnerships with ocean conservation projects by sharing with them part of the proceeds from select charters
Every yacht charter journey can contribute to ocean conservation, by making conscious choices to protect the breathtaking waters we enjoy. You can join the movement by supporting organizations like the Sea Ranger Service and adopting sustainable yachting practices. Because protecting the seas isn’t just an option — it’s a way of life.
