Mauritius: Coral Farming Experience & Marine Conservation

Coral Farmer Tour

This engaging activity offers an interactive and educational experience in coral reef restoration. Participants will visit a sea-based coral farm to observe and assist with measuring coral growth, monitoring coral health, and maintaining the coral culture tables while snorkeling. You will receive insightful presentations about different coral species, their crucial role in the marine ecosystem, and the conservation efforts in Mauritius to restore damaged reefs. The activity includes hands-on training in identifying healthy and distressed corals, assessing coral coloration, and using specialized tools to measure growth. It’s a meaningful opportunity to learn about coral conservation, marine biodiversity, and the strategies used to protect and restore vital underwater habitats.

What’s Included:

• Interactive presentation on coral species and coral reefs
• Importance of coral reefs in marine ecosystems and their role in the global environment
• Coral Health Monitoring Methodology:
– Training on identifying healthy vs. distressed corals
– Techniques for assessing coral coloration
• Measuring Coral Growth:
– Presentation on how to use tools and methods for measuring coral growth accurately
• Importance of monitoring growth rates to assess restoration success
• Maintenance of Culture Tables:
– Method for cleaning coral culture tables to prevent disease and pests

What’s Not Included:

• Gratuities
• Transportation to and from the meeting point but it can be arranged as a supplement

What to Bring:

• Swimwear and cover-ups
• A towel
• Sunscreen (reef-safe)
• Waterproof camera ( if you do not have one, don’t worry the crew will be taking pictures to share with you)
• Light jacket (in case the weather changes suddenly)

Additional Info:

Safety Info:
All participants will be briefed about safety protocol upon embarkation
All participants will be equipped with a life jacket at all times
All minors should remain under constant supervision by their caretaker
All participants must adhere to the advice of the crew at all times
No alcoholic beverages served on board except for the exclusive couple’s tour
All participants must notify us of any allergies or particular health conditions at the time of booking.
Participants must be in good physical health and comfortable in the water.

Note:
All activities are subject to weather conditions. Tours may be rescheduled or modified in the case of adverse weather to ensure participant safety and optimal diving conditions

Morning Session
08:00 – Boarding, welcome, and safety briefing onboard “Lafayette”
08:30 -09:15 -Navigate to coral farm + Educational session on coral ecology & how to perform activities of the day
09:15 -10:30 – Gear up and snorkel on the coral farm to record coral growth and clean culture tables
10:30 -11:30- Debrief, refreshments & snacks on the boat while heading back to the embarkation point

Afternoon Session:
13:00 – Boarding, welcome, and safety briefing onboard “Lafayette”
13:30 – 14:00 -Navigate to coral farm + Educational session on coral ecology & how to perform activities of the day
14:15 – 15:30 – Gear up and snorkel on the coral farm to record coral growth and clean culture tables
15:30 – 16:30 – Debrief, refreshments & snacks on the boat while heading back to the embarkation point

Starting Address:

Some info regarding the meeting point:
Meeting point:  Black River – Grande Riviere Noire, Mauritius.