Since 2019, we have enjoyed exploring the pristine waters of East Indonesia on board Aqua Blu. Each day, guests embark on unparalleled adventures to some of the region’s most remote locales as they discover the archipelago’s unique biodiversity. Sailing the region has made us aware of the importance of conserving Indonesia’s remote natural ecosystems, and we are committed to empowering their protection from human threats.
As of 2024, Aqua has partnered with the Indonesian Manta Project (IMP) to support research and conservation efforts in East Indonesia. This partnership is an extension of our commitment to conserving aquatic biodiversity across the regions in which we sail. Through a collective fundraising endeavor, this partnership will raise funds to support the IMP’s Manta Ray Ecology and Conservation Research Program and the Indonesian Emerging Conservationist Scholarship Program.
With a mission to conserve Indonesian manta rays and promote the healthy coexistence of people and marine ecosystems, IMP’s Manta Ray Ecology and Conservation Research Program unites scientific research, community work, and education and outreach, creating a holistic approach to species conservation.
Through various research and monitoring techniques to better understand manta populations in overlooked regions of Indonesia, IMP drives programs that address critically important manta conservation issues in Indonesia. The information gathered from this program allows IMP to evaluate the effectiveness of their conservation methods and contributes to the development of effective long-term management plans.
Designed to empower young Indonesian conservationists, this scholarship program empowers emerging leaders to implement localized, small-scale conservation initiatives under the guidance of Thrive Conservation and Manta Trust – the organizations behind the Indonesian Manta Project. This initiative not only enhances the capacity of young conservationists in the region but also strengthens frontline conservation efforts in Indonesia.
Working closely with IMP, Aqua Blu’s itineraries will now offer guests the opportunity to learn about the research being done to protect the marine ecosystems in East Indonesia. Along with this, an annual donation from Aqua Expeditions will support the IMP’s research and conservation projects.
Guests will also be able to support fundraising efforts through the purchase of IMP merchandise on board Aqua Blu or via donations. A US$100 donation would cover the cost of a research day trip to gather vital information on manta population, while a US$5000 would support an entire expedition to a remote or unexplored part of Indonesia to expand our understanding of threats to the regional ecosystem.
