PROJECTS FROM FUNDAÇÃO OCEAN AZORES SUPPORTED BY AZORES GETAWAYS
The ocean Azores Foundation was set up to work to address key threats to the whales and cetaceans that exist in the waters of the Azores. With this in mind the foundation will look to projects that address these as a priority. Other projects for the community of the Azores will also be considered outside of this remit if deemed appropriate.
YOUR TRIP SUPPORTS OCEAN CONSERVATION IN THE REGION WITH A €10 DONATION PER BOOKING IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS
AWARENESS
RESEARCH
PROTECTION
Launched in partnership with Azores Getaways, The Ocean Azores Photographer of The Year aims to tell the story of a unique marine sanctuary. join us as we use the power of photography to advance scientific knowledge, spread awareness and work on sustainable marine tourism in the Azores. See more.
The Ocean Azores Foundation is supporting the costs for the application of the Azores as a world recognised sustainable whale watching destination. The Whale Heritage Site certification is run by the World Cetation Alliance, a world leading ocean based conservation NGO.
Support sustainable marine tourism in the Azores: Download our guide to whale watching.
WHALE TRACKING
Working in partnership with The University of The Azores and Okeanos, the foundation is building a whale tracking database. This open source solution brings academics and whale watching companies together to support the future conservation efforts in the region.
RESEARCH BOATS & SUPPORT
We are working to put 3 research boats on Teceria, São Miguel and Faial to support ocean research.
THE GOLFINO COMISSION
A project to look into the impact of swimming with dolphins here in the Azores
GHOST NETS
Entanglement in Fishing Gear and ghost netting is one of the most serious issues facing whales in the ocean. Whales are at high risk of becoming entangled in fishing gear. Once entangled, whales may drag and swim with attached gear for long distances or be anchored in place and unable to swim. Events such as these result in fatigue, and ultimately lead to death.
9 Islands. 1 Ocean.
The Ocean Azores Foundation was created in the Azores for the ocean that surrounds us. We aim to invest our resources in selected community projects that will help drive lasting social and environmental change, focusing on the protection of the waters that surround the Azores Islands. This will be achieved through multi-year partnerships and providing funding for organisations that promote marine sustainability and sustainable tourism.