Even the most environmentally conscious cruises leave their mark on the world, so anything you can do to restore balance is a good thing.
A growing number of cruises are allowing amateur vacationers to help with important research – so-called “citizen science” programs that are fun and easy to contribute to.
Here are five options that combine exploration and relaxation for true relaxation…
Help learn Aurora knowledge in Norway
Scientists accompany every Hurtigruten cruise and often need help. One such opportunity is in Norway, where the Aurorasaurus website allows you to combine the sight of the Northern Lights with a better technical understanding of the beautiful phenomenon.
Every time a green, red or purple swirl appears in the night sky, passengers are shown how to report their sightings.
If there are no sightings, Hurtigruten will compensate you with a free six- or seven-night sail – essentially a second chance.
Try your luck first with the Northern Lights and charter flight package, which follows the Norwegian fjord coast from Bergen.
11 nights from £1,849 per person, including all flights, sailings until March 14, Hurtigruten
Help whale sharks in the Maldives
While many cruise lines promote support for whale-tracking apps, one adventure in the Maldives goes even further. As you cruise through the quintessentially idyllic atolls of South Malé and Ari on a local-style gulet sailboat, embark on two whale shark safaris with a coordinator from the Maldives Whale Shark Research Program.
This also includes helping to measure the animals under water. On other days, you’ll visit a coral nursery, learn about sea turtle conservation efforts, and participate in beach cleanups. In between there is plenty of time for snorkeling and sunbathing on empty sandbank islands.
Seven nights from £1,550 per person, full board, including all activities, departing December 3 and February 4, Responsible Travel.
Count penguins in Antarctica
Polar Latitudes pioneered citizen science in Antarctica in 2010 – something now offered by almost every cruise ship visiting the White Continent.
This year a new plan was introduced, Oceanites Penguin Count. During daily shore excursions from the 139-passenger, swimming-pool MS Seaventure, guests are asked to count the number of flightless birds they see before reporting to scientists on board the nonprofit research program. Population counts help oceanites assess the health of surrounding ecosystems.
Ten nights from £5,225 per person, full board, including gratuities, entrance fees and excursions, Coral Expeditions.
Source: Metro
Source: Metro
I, Ronald Payne, am a journalist and author who dedicated his life to telling the stories that need to be said. I have over 7 years of experience as a reporter and editor, covering everything from politics to business to crime.
