Ponant Explorations is expanding its science program, welcoming researchers from several scientific institutions aboard Le Soléal to undertake scientific missions in the Kimberley this month.
The researchers come from CSIRO, the University of Western Australia, Echos d’Océans and the Sydney Institute of Marine Science/IMOS.
Across two August voyages, the researchers will undertake research into blue-carbon ecosystems, marine plastic pollution and sea-turtle habitat utilisation.
The projects will include mapping blue-carbon habitats, analysing marine plastics in remote areas and surveying sea-turtle nesting sites contributing to longer-term environmental understanding and conservation in the Kimberley. This is the second year Ponant has welcomed researchers to the region as part of its expanding Ponant Science program reflecting the company’s broader commitment to scientific collaboration and environmental stewardship in the regions it explores.
Guests travelling on the two voyages will have opportunities to learn about the work through onboard presentations, informal science sessions and interactions with the researchers offering insight into the Kimberley’s ecosystems and wildlife as they undertake the projects.
Ponant Explorations transforms exploration into an opportunity for discovery, conservation and collaboration by integrating active research into its expedition voyages. Researchers gain access to extraordinary environments that advance scientific understanding, while guests enjoy a richer, more purposeful connection to the Kimberley.
“I am thrilled that we can welcome researchers in the Kimberley region for the second year, a region that we care very much about as part of our Australian small-ship deployment,” Ponant Explorations CEO of Asia Pacific Deb Corbett said.
“Enabling new discoveries and giving back to the Australian communities continues to be one of our core objectives and commitments.”
