Logbook
From fertilizer to stifling blooming
July 21, 2010One of the major problems of the Baltic Sea is eutrophication. Eutrophication is due to an overload of fertilizing substances which are washed from the surrounding coasts into the sea.
The Baltic Sea is particularly affected by this phenomenon, as the water body is an almost closed unit hence the circulation rate rather low and the water exchange limited.
The main sources of eutrophication are land runoffs from agricultural activities, but other forms of wastewaters, e.g. from surrounding communities and cities are also a problem. The latter have significantly improved over the last decades by higher standards of wastewater treatment plants. The effects of eutrophication are blooming algae, which dominate other local species. Similar to red tides in other regions of the world, one effect of increasing eutrophication can be blooming of poisonous algae species, such as blue green algae or as the chrysolina polilepis. These initially harmless species become poisonous as a consequence of nitrates in the water.
Other than harming the local marine fauna, it can be hazardous for humans, ranging from skin irritation to more severe problems in case of swallowing.
In years of strong blue algae blooming beaches are closed and swimming is forbidden, not to mention the affect on fish for human consumption.
Brittany currently faces serious issues with a green tide created by the same phenomenon. The danger to humans is sizeable.
Photo Credit: Toralf Heene, IOW
Endangered Shipwrecks
July 17, 2010Today the scientific divers sew pieces of wood from several ship wrecks off the coast of Ruegen. The study of these samples allows to follow the evolution of an invasive species called « teredo navalis » , more commonly known as shipworm which is in fact a bivalve mollusc. The little animal devours all kinds of wood and is migrating from west to east in the Baltic Sea due to rising water temperatures. Scientists fear that it might completely destroy the 40'000 wooden shipwrecks, marine heritage of the Baltic Sea, within the next 10 years. It is only the lower salinity in the east Baltic that stops further migration of this quite resistant animal. Neither nature harming bio chemicals nor endangered exotic woods provide sustainable solutions. Wrapping up the wrecks in geo-textiles or burring them in the sand or mud are impossible to achieve. But research continues.
Flintstones on the bottom of the Sea
July 14, 2010Today is the first day of diving for a new group of scientists from the Oceanographic museum of Stralsund. A part from observations and photographic documentation the divers encounter many large flintstones on the bottom of the sea.
Several theories try to explain the formation of these stones which seem to date from the same era than the extinction of the dinosaurs. In the area they are called the "Flowerpots of Sassnitz" as the local population used them to that effect.
No doubt that these rocks would have interested our ancestors - to grill a sole ?
Small but beautiful - the national park of Jasmund
July 12, 2010Jasmund is a nature reserve in the northeast of Rügen Island, off the Baltic Coast of Germany. It is famous for the large chalk cliffs, up to 161 m high above the sea creating impressive sceneries.
The park was founded in 1990 and is the smallest national park of Germany.
The chalk cliffs face constant erosion and with every storm, parts of the cliffs fall down, including rocks and fossils of sponges, oysters and sea urchins.
We find many rare plants and animals in this park due to the local geological conditions, for instance Grey seal and Brook lamprey who live at the coast.
The forests behind the cliffs add to the biodiversity of the area, famous for its beach forests, springs and streams.
Intensive forestry and tourism are the main threats along this coast where Fleur de Passion has anchored.
A scientific group of 5 from the Oceanographic museum of Stralsund is onboard for the next 10 days. Their work is largely concentrating on documenting the area with images and film for the museum.
Girls on board
July 09, 2010This week a group of young girls aged between 14 and 17 from a home in Geneva join us on board. For most sailing for several days and life on a ship is a first and totally new experience. They learn to participate in sailing maneuvers, observing the surroundings during night shifts and contributing to every day life in the kitchen and other tasks. They get a glimpse of navigation and observing the sea. The Baltic Sea is particularly kind this week with high temperatures and great sunshine. They leave the ship after these few days of adventure, well tanned and with big smiles.
A sole on the grill ?
July 04, 2010A group of 5 scientists from the german oceanographic museum in Stralsund join us on board. During their collection they bring on deck a beautiful sole which almost ended on the grill. The fish will eventually be dedicated to science as planned, and we have pasta for dinner.
The team collects diverse species of algae, small crustaceans and fish.
In this area of the southern danish islands the salt content in the water is higher than in the east, the marine life more abundant and diverse.
The salinity is around 10 parts per thousand in the east, 16 - 17 in this area to 29 ppt where the Baltic joins the North Sea.
The team of scientists is very pleased to spend the week aboard Fleur de Passion, an opportunity to work together as a group, diving and collecting a multitude of species to complete the museum's collection.
New videos on line
June 30, 2010Watch our latest videos under the East Atlantic mission on dolphins, pilot whales and killer wales. And soon to follow our video on the week in Kiel.
Arrival in Kiel, Germany
June 20, 2010Fleur de Passion, after a journey with some stops in Brest, Calais and CuxHaven in Germany arrived in Kiel, close to the Baltic Sea. This week ( June 19 -26th) will be dedicated to a group of students from Lausanne and will be the opportunity to get Fleur de Passion participating in the windjammer parade, which will happen at the end of the "Kieler Woche" , major event in the sailing world, as it gathers 70 nations, 2000 flagships, and 5000 sportsmen, and is a famous worldwide sports event. It is also the biggest summer event in the North of Europe, and as well a political forum, a musical event, and the biggest worldwide competition sailing event . For the crew it will also be the opportunity for observation of the harbor porpoises , and related marine ecosystems, for water, sediment, and plankton sampling, as well as courses on coastal ecology with local experts .
Trajets - Voyage
June 12, 2010For our trip from Brest to Calais we are joined on board of Fleur de Passion by a group from the Association Trajet in Geneva. Hélène, David, Giacomo, Michel and Lazar have a little sailing experience and are all looking forward to a few days at sea. Heavy rains and low clouds accompany us at our departure from Brest. We spend one night mooring across from the beautiful town of Camaret-sur-Mer and in the morning the sun is back as we sail along the beautiful coasts of Brittany. Twenty-four hours later the forecast announces strong winds and we decide to spend the next night safely in the harbour of Cherbourg. The following night is difficult for the group, a bad combination of head wind and back current create a choppy sea accompanied by heavy rains and very low visibility. The hours on deck are long and we are all relieved at dawn when the rain finally stops. Congratulations to the group, you stayed courageous to the end. Best wishes to you all.
Océanopolis - Brest
June 06, 2010We reach Brittany after crossing the Bay of Biscay. The rain and lower temperatures at our arrival in Brest remind us that we have left the southern part of Europe. We moor at the "Port du Moulin Blanc" in Brest, right across from Oceanopolis, large theme parc devoted to the discovery of the oceans. Several pavilions form an impressive complex that takes the visitor through different oceans environments. All along the visit we discover a variety of species and we are given many explanations. Large aquaria make us discover the tropical waters, where napoleons, butterfly-fishes and damselfishes can be seen. We now wander from the tropical seas to the polar regions, meeting royal penguins, gentoo penguins and gorfou which can be seen above and below the water surface. In the temperate pavillion seals play in large glass tanks. Almost all these animals are born in captivity. Oceanopolis, which is celebrating its 20th birthday today, is a magnificent place that allows a broad public to discover the wonders and richess of our oceans.
In Brest with Cargill employees
June 05, 2010The three days we spend in Brest are largely dedicated to meeting with one of the main sponsors of "The Changing Oceans Expedition" : Cargill.
It is our first opportunity to share the experience directly with Cargill employees, who can visit Fleur de Passion and come sailing in the Brest Bight with us. We are then invited to join employees from Brest and other french Cargill facilities for dinner, a nice opportunity to create a direct contact and exchange ideas. During the week-end two outings are organized, with over 40 people: employees with their spouses and children get the opportunity to spend some time on board. The children have loads of fun setting sails and pulling lines.
We also take this opportunity to share some videos and presentations on marine ecosystems and on some of the concerns and issues we face today.
The lighthouse of Sagres and Cape Sao Vicente
June 02, 2010Early in the morning we round Cape Sao Vicente, the most south westerly point of Portugal. Sheer cliffs drop into the ocean and we can only imagine the spectacular waves which hit the coast during winter storms. Back in the 15th century this was the edge of the known world, the starting point of great expeditions of discovery and exploration. It is here that Prince Henry the Navigator created the School of Navigation which united at the time the best navigators and geographers of Europe. Captains and officers were educated in navigation, astronomy and cartography. Despite his name, he was not known for his achievements as a sailor but as an instigator of numerous expeditions and for pushing back the frontiers of the known world at the beginning of the Age of Discovery.
The spectacular cliffs and beaches from here onwards are part of the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, a less urbanized coast on our route. We are now heading north.
MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) - Portugal
June 02, 2010Millions of people around the world regularly consume fish and seafood. Unfortunately our oceans are partly being overfished and if nothing is done some of our favorite fish are likely to disappear from the fishmonger's stalls.
Not only is our food at stake but the fishing industry and our marine ecosystems around the world are concerned.
Fisheries worldwide adopt good practices to preserve employment, sustain fish stocks and promote marine conservation.
The MSC runs an exciting and ambitious program, working with partners to transform the world's seafood markets and promote sustainable fishing practices, as explained on their website.
MSC offers fisheries around the world a way to be recognised and rewarded for good management. By working in partnership with sustainable fisheries to create a market for sustainable seafood, other fisheries are encouraged to change their practices.
The MSC has joined forces with some of the world's leading retailers, brands and seafood businesses to help them meet customer expectations and increase their sustainable seafood offer. Many have placed the MSC at the centre of sustainable seafood policies. Meet the retailers and restaurants selling MSC-labelled seafood.
Credible standards for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability seek to increase the availability of certified sustainable seafood and our distinctive blue ecolabel makes it easy for everyone to take part.
The MSC blue ecolabel gives everyone an easy way to make the best environmental choice when shopping or dining out. Our communications and marketing activities raise awareness of our ecolabel. Try one of our delicious sustainable seafood recipes.
The Portuguese Association of Purse Seine Producer Organisations (ANOPCERCO), is now eligible to sell its catch - which represents 95% of the country's sardine production (well over 50,000 metric tons annually) - with the internationally recognised blue MSC ecolabel. The certificate covers all of the association's larger coastal vessels (over 9 m long) whose main activity is purse seining. It's the country's first fishery to earn this distinction.
New videos!
Mai 25, 2010New videos on line! See the interviews with Dr. Halpern, Prof Micheli and Dr. Selkoe on our mission about the human impact on the oceans in Morocco as well as the interview with Mr. Houssine Nibani, president of the AGIR association in Al Hoceima. Click here.
As well newly posted is the interview with the archeologist Irena Radic Rossi in Croatia last year. Click here.
Vilamoura
Mai 23, 2010We stop in the marina of Vilamoura in Portugal for a couple of days. François Salle, a member of the brotherhood of sailors created in chile over 50 years ago, "Frères de la Côte". François is of great help upon arrival and organizes a mooring for Fleur de Passion. He spends the day with us and shares his sailing experience and gives plenty of advice about the region. He teaches us a couple of new knots: the "dindin" , very useful for taking a sheet under tension and the perfection knot of american origin.
François brings lemons, thyme and rosemary from his garden to the delight of all. He is full of energy and good humor and it is impossible to tell that François will celebrate his 80th birthday soon.
Many thanks to François for his welcome and help, godspeed and see you soon.
Tarifa
Mai 21, 2010We spend the day in the Gibraltar Straight, between Tarifa and Tanger with Jörn Selling, the biologist from Firmm. Firmm is a Swiss foundation, established in 1998 to study and protect marine mammals and their natural habitats, the oceans.
The weather conditions are a bit rough for whale watching, but we finally encounter a group of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins after an hour of navigation. The Straight is only 18 kilometers large here and over 300 ships and cargoes use it every day. At this time of year the cetaceans observed are mainly pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins and killer whales. Later in the year sperm whales are to be seen in the area, as well as striped dolphins and fin whales. Later we also spot a small group of killer whales, presumably one male and at least one female with a juvenile.
Part of the coast around Tarifa is a nature reserve but plans to declare the entire Straight a marine protected area have failed so far.
The Bay of Algeciras - Gibraltar
Mai 11, 2010We take advantage of a favorable weather window to leave Malaga on Saturday evening before the next forecasted low pressure system.
After a calm overnight navigation we drop anchor in the Bay of Algeciras not far from the Gibraltar Straight to seek shelter for the next couple of days.
Right from the entry of the bay we see thousands of lights, immense cranes, plenty of cargoes and almost no land left without industry or port facilities. We wonder how this area can be a reproduction and nursery site for common dolphins.
Great efforts are necessary to protect this part of the Mediterranean Sea which is strongly affected by human impact (heavy marine traffic, densely urbanized coasts, pollution from waste and waste-waters, deforestation, desertification, erosion…)
The local biodiversity should be maintained through integrated management of coastal areas (GIZC) and the creation of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Protective actions have to reduce the destruction of natural habitats, prevent the spread of invasive species and make tourism help sustain the local economy and environment.
These policies also aim at better managing pollution by waste and hydrocarbons and prevent accidents caused by maritime traffic.
A nice success story was published by the "Earthwatch Institute": "Earthwatch-supported research in the Alboran Sea on the habitat
needs of dolphins has enabled scientists to secure agreement from the International Maritime Organisation to divert shipping lanes off the southern coast of Spain. This monumental agreement has safeguarded vital dolphin breeding and feeding grounds."
The Alboran Sea
Mai 08, 2010We are leaving Morocco, crossing the western Mediterranean Sea to reach the spanish coast. This sea is called the Alboran Sea.
It stretches from the Gibraltar Straight to an imaginary line between the spanish Cape Gata and the algerian Cape Fegalo. This sea forms the transition between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean and has a high diversity.
Of all european seas, the Alboran Sea hosts the largest diversity of species. Its primary productivity is high compared to other parts of the Mediterranean Sea and particularly favorable for concentrations of sardines and anchovies. The flora and fauna includes atlantic species of tropical origin which are not found anywhere else in the Mediterranean.
Significant numbers of marine flowering plants grow close to the shore and around the Isle of Alboran are large kelp forests (brown algae) and an abundance of calcareous algae grounds as well as red coral.
The concentration of cetaceans around the Straight of Gibraltar is amongst the highest in the Mediterranean. Most commonly found are: the common dolphin, the striped dolphin, the bottlenose dolphin and the pilot whale. This area is also a major migratory and feeding habitat for a couple of species of sea turtles, such as the leatherback turtle and the caret.
Our next stop will be Tarifa for a day or two for whale-watching before heading North in the Atlantic.
AGIR in Al Hoceima
Mai 05, 2010Our partner in Morocco is the association AGIR, Association de Gestion Intégrée des Ressources. The association was founded in Al Hoceima in 2008. The main objectives are sustainable development through integrated management of resources as well as supporting local training and promotion. The association is active in several areas such as sustainable fishing, conservation of the marine and terrestrial environment, outreach and sensibilisation on environmental issues and biodiversity.
The association is also active in conflict and pollution management as well as supporting ONGs in their work.
A big thank you to Houssine Nibani, the president of the association and all his team for their very warm welcome and friendship, as well as for their unlimited support during the entire mission in Morocco of "The Changing Oceans Expedition".
We are leaving the coasts of Morocco, heading towards Gibraltar where we will visit FIRMM, an ONG engaged in ecotourism and whale watching.
Urbanisation and waste-waters
Mai 03, 2010Sailing along the coast we observe a great amount of construction sites at both ends of the national park. Development is booming in the area and with this rapid urbanization of the coast, problems linked to waste and waste-water management become more and more pressing.
In Morocco only 5% of waste-waters are actually treated. Waste-waters are either directly poured into the hydrographical network which leads inevitably to the coast, or into septic tanks in rural areas or directly into the sea. Local and national authorities are concerned by the minimal amount of water purification plants.
Another phenomenon that can be observed in the region is water erosion. This loss of soil automatically leads to the loss of arable layers, loss of soil fertility and productivity, hence degrading the resources of the area. The consequences are soil abandonment and increase of poverty.
Mooring in the National Park of Al Hoceima
April 30, 2010We are back in the national park. The skies are grey and low clouds lie on the summits of the overhanging cliffs. Once the anchor is dropped and the engine shut down the only sounds interrupting the silence are waves scattered against the cliffs and the songs of nearby nesting birds. Despite the absence of wind the boat is pitching heavily with the incoming swell. Around the boat we see an abundance of little brown jellyfish amongst which we discover a much larger and colorful one that is also far more dangerous. It is in fact not a jellyfish but a siphonophore, a portuguese man o'war (Physalia physalis). We bring it on board in a bowl filled with water just long enough to observe it more closely and to take same pictures before returning it to its natural habitat. The surrounding waters seem clear at first sight, but a closer look reminds us that civilization is not far: floating pieces of plastic, brown foam and other indefinable dirt, all of which somewhat trouble this otherwise idyllic place.
Mission: Human Impact on the Oceans - Morocco
April 28, 2010Ben Halpern (University of California, Santa Barbara), Kim Selkoe (Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology) and Fiorenza Micheli (Stanford University) are on board Fleur de Passion for a pilot mission building on their global project to map the "human impact on the oceans".
For the last week they have been diving together with members from the Antinea foundation and Ilyas El Bouzidi from Morocco to share their practices and methods, collecting samples, counting species and doing transects.
Their work consists in assessing the amount of life that can be observed, as Ben Halpern explains, and how it is affected by different amounts of human pressure. In their fieldwork they get a quick snapshot of the amount of biomass, ie plants and animals of the food web. From the fish at the top, the predators all the way down to the algae that grow on the rocks.
The tasks are divided among the team to count fish, invertebrates (urchins, sea stars etc) and algae, doing transects and collecting algae samples. The number of individuals in each size category gives a picture of the health of the food web.
The only samples collected and brought back on board are algae, as their size and weight can't easily be measured underwater.
The approach is quantitative to begin with but gives a good qualitative snapshot of the situation and shows how healthy the system is.
Many fish at the top of the chain mean a healthy system underneath.
Ben Halpern and Fiorenza Micheli's first impression along the coast between Al Hoceima and Cala Iris is that the habitat is comparable to many other places in the Mediterranean Sea. Fishing methods such as trawling very close to the shore, dynamite fishing, as well as pollution endanger the area. The divers heard an explosion underwater during one of the dives and observed a trawler just 100 meters from the shore.
The exchange between the scientific team, the Antinea group and local divers, NGO representatives and administration will hopefully help to implement regulations which are acceptable for fishermen and inhabitants of the area, to protect this important ecosystem.
Al Hoceima National Park - Morocco
April 25, 2010Al Hoceima National Park is located on the mediterranean coast of Morocco. Created in 2004, the park follows about 40 km of coastline and covers 48'000 ha. Cliffs of up to 700 meters drop abruptly into the sea.
The diverse marine ecosystems host a variety of species and small populations of endangered ones.
The park is a habitat for many important bird species, including the fishing balbuzzard and Audouin's gull.
During our 2-day visit in the park the scientists and divers from the expedition have recorded about 20 different species of fish and several algae as well as invasive species of algae.
The very shallow part of the marine habitat seems to be well preserved, but a little further out, the seabed is clearly endangered.
The national park was created with the input of local NGOs and its existence is hope for efficient measures to protect this beautiful area in the future.
This pilot mission to ground truth the map of cumulative human impact on the oceans, created by Ben Halpern and his team, is ongoing and we'll soon publish further details.
Earth Day in Al Hoceima
April 22, 2010We have arrived in Al Hoceima just in time for "Earth Day 2010". The event has gained importance over the past years and is now celebrated as a national event. The King of Morocco himself has asked for distinct actions in environmental issues and supports several ecological programs.
The Walli, M. Mohamed Al Hafi and his delegation welcome us during an official ceremony in the harbour. The event is covered by national television as well as national radio.
About 80 children from different schools of the area are present for the ceremony and have the opportunity to visit Fleur de Passion. Our exhibit exposing several important subjects of human impact on the oceans such as overfishing, ocean transportation, pollution and climate change aims to raise their awareness of the sea.
We are also generously welcome by a local NGO, "AGIR". The NGO is campaigning in the area with several environmental programs, in particular with local fishermen to help them practice sustainable fishing.
Melilla
April 19, 2010After 5 days at sea we reach Melilla at 4 am in the morning.
Melilla is an autonomous Spanish city located on the north coast of North Africa. We are given a warm welcome and use our 2 day stop to finish work on board. A new crane is installed to facilitate the lifting of the dinghy onto the deck, the peak at the back of the boat is reorganized with new shelves and storage space and have completely revised the waste water circuit.
We will leave our berth later today to sail west to Al Hoceima, about 70 miles away.
At sea - Monastir to Melilla
April 15, 2010Our second day at sea. The skies are grey and clouds hide the near algerian coast. We can finally set sails with a favourable breeze and Fleur de Passion is steadily heading west. The crew is getting used to the regular mouvement of the ship and daily life is governed by the pace of the watches.
Small common dolphins pay us regular visits and play in the waves around the boat. We all enjoy the sight every time they return.
Large cargo ships cross our route more and more often, impressive units, heavily loaded with containers, grain or crude oil.
We have another 700 miles left to sail to reach our next destination: Melilla
The departure
April 12, 2010The departure. The crew is happy to be at sea and the life on board is taking its course. We are first heading north along the tunisian coast before following the algerian coastline to reach Morocco. Our next destination is about 800 miles away and we will need a short week to get there.
This first leg of the expedition will already allow us to make several observations before undertaking our mission in the marine protected areas of Morocco.
A few days to departure
April 08, 2010Our departure is only a few days away and a group of twelve people: crew, carpenters, engineers and volunteers is working hard to get the boat ready to be out at sea. Everybody is concentrating on their task to ensure that we can sail safely during the coming season.
Our next major stop will be the national parc of Al Hoceima in Morocco where a group of scientists will join us to study the human impact on the oceans in that area.
Latest News
April 01, 2010Fleur de Passion left the island of Malta this month after spending most of the winter there.
Over the past few months the Antinea team has been compiling a report on: "Best practices in MPA management", which consolidates data collected during the 2009 mission. We will expand upon this publication throughout The Changing Oceans Expedition with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of the different factors which contribute to the success of Marine Protected Areas. These factors include fishing practices, tourism, scientific research and awareness-raising on environmental protection.
Successful MPA management is a complex task in which many aspects play an important role. Fleur de Passion visited 12 different Marine Protected Areas during 2009. Meeting with many MPA managers, fishermen, dive clubs, tourist offices, government representatives and local scientists gave the Antinea team an opportunity to assess a wide range of issues and success stories encountered in MPA management.
We noticed that MPAs with sufficient resources function perfectly well, not only in protecting fragile environments, but also by enabling the regeneration of degraded ecosystems.
Well-managed MPAs are clearly beneficial in maintaining the ecological balance while providing security for the fishing and tourism industries.
As for 2010, Fleur de Passion is currently undergoing maintenance work in a shipyard in Tunisia, ahead of this year's mission.
The Changing Ocean Expedition will soon be bound for Morocco to take part in a global research project to study the cumulative impact of human activity on the oceans. Following this three-week project we will be heading north towards the Baltic and the Waddensea.
Climate change and the oceans
November 27, 2009Here is a video we have edited for the Copenhagen Climate Change talks. We are really proud of it and hope this will contribute to bringing the oceans on to the agenda. This film explains in 6 minutes how the oceans are affected and play a major role in Climate Change. see the video on CNN iReport In the run up to Copenhagen, there is a lot of talk about the destruction of forests and air, about carbon trading and clean energy, but very little about the impact of our oceans and climate change. In our oceans, climate goes well beyond melting ice caps and endangered polar bears in the North Pole. Our seas are acidifying at unprecedented levels and the Mediterranean is being invaded by tropical, alien species. The oceans make up 80% of the surface of our planet and provide 70% of the oxygen we breathe. All around the world, our oceans and seas are getting warmer and more acidic, but because we can't always see what is happening under the surface, researchers and scientists are worried that the risks to our oceans will be forgotten in Copenhagen. Experts from the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) and from the research team on board the Changing Oceans Expedition are worried that the oceans are being forgotten in Copenhagen. They call for urgent action before it is too late. Unprecedented footage of underwater volcanic activity was filmed on board Fleur de Passion in the Aeolian Islands where scientist study the future conditions of our blue planet.
Fleur de Passion in Croatia
November 02, 2009For the first time we had an opportunity to take a picture of Fleur de Passion with all its sails out. Leaving Cavtat and heading towards Dubrovnik, we took advantage of the perfect weather to set the flying-jib as well as the jib sail. These two sails are used only with mild winds. The boat instantly gained an additional knot in speed. Thank you to our partner North Sails for their great job designing and producing Fleur de Passion's sails!
Subaquatic archeology in Cavtat - Croatia
October 29, 2009Croatia, it appears, has succeeded where so many other countries have failed, in taking measures to protect their marine heritage. In Cavtat, near Montenegro, archaeologists have been able to preserve some of the ancient Roman wrecks found there by installing large cages. These cages enable controlled visits to the sites while preventing dishonest divers from pillaging the historical artifacts. The Antinea team is accompanied by Irena Radic, responsable for the sub-marine archeology service, on a guided tour of the two sites including a visit to a newly discovered wreck.
Turbulent crossing from Mjlet to Dubrovnik
October 22, 2009The crew is facing a turbulent crossing from Mjlet to Dubrovnik, accompanied by 5 meter waves and 40 knots of wind. The next days are devoted to cleaning the boat and editing video footage. The worn-out crew is relaxing after 10 days of cold, humidity and bad weather!
Visit of the Protected Area of Mljet Island - Croatia
October 18, 2009Croatia has a well-guarded secret. The islant of Mljet posseses a lush vegetation completely undisturbed by Man. It has forests of Alep pines and a natural park patrolled by consciencious rangers. What of the seabed? It is threatened by underwater tourism, though paradoxally tourists must also pay a tax for its conservation. Unsurpervised anchorage of boats during the summer could threaten the underwater habitat and biodiversité of this island. Even so, the seabed is still well preserved with numerous and sizeable fauna. The same goes for the archeological sites which are miraculously preserved at a depth of 6 meters. Such sites only exist at several hundred meters below the surface elsewhere in the Mediterranean.
Torre Guaceto (9th to 14th of October) Brindisi - ITALY
October 14, 2009Located in oriental Italy, this marine reserve is particularly well managed. The management in charge of Torre Guaceto have put a local fishing conservation program in place with the traditional fishermen in the authorized fishing zone. These fishermen are allowed to fish once per week in this zone. Their catches are plentiful and the fish are of good size which sell very well, even more so as they have the AMP label. Fish less but with better quality, a dynamic action plan which allows a compromise between fishing and conservation of marine life.
Ciclopi Island Mission - Aeolian Islands
October 07, 2009Located at the foot of the Etna, the Marine Reserve of the Ciclopi Islands allows us to evoke the diversity of mediterranean underwater habitats. Its seabeds are not only sandy or covered with Posodinia, they are also volcanic. The size of this recent Marine Area is still to small to be consequential on the development of ressources, but Sicily intends to develop more Marine Reserves on the seafloors that shaped the island. Watch the mission video on Ciclopi Island
Aeolian Islands - Storm in a land of volcanoes
September 26, 2009Our arrival at the Aeolian Isles was met with a furious storm, which led to a tumultuous night. The crew stood fast and with the help of the local inhabitants, we were able to put Fleur de Passion out of danger.
Watch the video of the storm
We then encountered the island inhabitants who told us about life on the island and of its volcano.
Interview of an inhabitant
Bonifacio - Corsica
September 15, 2009The Bouches-de-Bonifacio Nature Reserve is also a good example of Protected Marine Area management, even more so because of it's size, one of the biggest in the Mediterranean : 80000 ha. This Marine Area also posseses a vast protected expanse and species studies. It has also developed a surveillance network against poaching. But this strongly navigated passage area between Corsica and Sardinia threatens the tranquility of its inhabitants. In an effort to find a solution to the intensity of the maritime traffic, the Bouches-de-Bonifacio are beginning to approach their Sardinian neighbors, the Marine Areas of Maddalena. In unity lies strength.
Interview with Jean-Michel Culioli, who presents the Nature Reserve of the Bouches-de-Bonifacio, its management and its terrestrial and marine riches:Watch the video of the interview
End of Mission in Scandola - Corsica
September 10, 2009The Nature Reserve of Scandola is a successful example of a protected Marine Area. Known of the jewel of Corsica, Scandola has managed to rehabilitate an abundant and sizeable local marine fauna. see the interview of Jean-Marie Diminici, director of the Scandola Reserve.
This Nature Reserve has permitted the survival of the balbuzard, which was nearly extinct. Today, these eagle fishers are part of a reintroduction program in Italy. This example of measures taken goes to show that this Reserve deserves to grow in order for it to provide a new fishing ressource. see the interview of Jean-Christophe Vié, deputy directeur, Species Program, IUCN, which has just published the 2008 report on the red list of threatened species.
Antinea came to dive at these exceptional sites accompanied by the director of the Marine Area, Jean-Marie Dominici, and to watch Jacques-Olivier's paragliding flight with his eagle.
Sailing from Calvi to Scandola - Corsica
September 09, 2009A beautiful trip led us to the magnificent Girolata bay, from where we will depart for our next mission at Scandola.
Watch the navigation video
End of the Stareso Mission in Calvi - Corsica
September 05, 2009At Calvi, Antinea went to the Stareso oceanographic center and welcomed researcher Jean-Henri Hecq, as well as the director of the center Pierre Lejeune, aboard for a plankton-collecting and liguro-provençal front identification mission.
Watch the interview of Jean-Marie Hecq
Watch the interview of Pierre Lejeune on climate change
Antinea spent a month in the Pelagos sanctuary making observation transects of cetaceans. It was thus particularly interesting for us to learn more about the source of their diet, plankton. This physically and scientifically intense day(Watch the rise of the plankton !)< was enhanced by an exceptionnal affluence of curious cetaceans moving towards Fleur de Passion. During the entire day, two groups of pilot whales and jumping sperm whales swam toward us, and dolphins came to play off the bow on several occasions.
Watch the video of the pilot whales
Dolphin Watching - Saint Florent - Corsica
August 21, 2009Saint Florent is a bay which is highly concerned with its marine heritage. It houses a colony of dolphins (Trusiops Truncatus), which is studied all year long. This bay was even the stage of an important naval battle during the Renaissance. Two galleons sank here, and will soon be excavated under the direction of Arnaud Cazenave, an archeologist from la Roche. We divided our stay between visits of the two wrecks and discovering the local biodiversity with Charles Pinelli.
Interview of Charles Pinelli, Président des amis de l'Agriate
Pelagos Sanctuary : Caetacean observation
August 15, 2009We encountered Céline Arnal, president of the Cybelle Planète association, in the magical setting of the Pelagos sanctuary. This week was rhythmed by the development of observation protocols which will be used to study surface species such as moon fish, sea turtles and cetaceans. We were lucky enough to observe several different cetacean species.
Watch Céline Arnal's interview
Port Cros Marine Protected Area
August 02, 2009The Port Cros halt was synonomous with encounters and discovery. Indeed, Fleur de Passion hosted two groups of 10 people aboard for two weeks in order to initiate them to navigation and the marine world. As life aboard with its new crew followed its course, some of the Antinea team, having remained on land, progressed on other projects. These projects consisted in the perfection of protocols on georeferenced transect videos, and testing the 3D modelisation program Oceanid. Local scientists and underwater cameramen dived at the Port Cros site in an effort to compare the results of underwater observations made by the scientists with the analysis of video footage provided by the cameramen. A lot of time was also spent with the marine reserve managers of Port Cros in an effort to understand how tourism, fishing and environmental protection could co-exist. The Antinea team was impressed with the richness of the marine floors; this comforted our idea that protected marine areas are the adequate solution for protecting the oceans. As part of the projection of the film "Home", produced by our sponsor, Luc Besson, Yann Arthus Bertrand honored us with a visit aboard. A projection of this documentary took place on the Lavandou beach, nearby Port Cros. 20000 people attended.
Cap d'Agde
July 24, 2009Our collaboration with National Geographic truly started at Cap d'Agde. Indeed, Greg Marshall, the inventer of the "crittercam" camera, joined us aboard Fleur de Passion in order to put on of these cameras on a blue shark.
After a warm welcome by the "Thon Club d'Agde", they helped us in our attempt to capture the required specimen. Once again, the weather was rough and we had to remain ashore for two days. When the weather finally let up, another problem surfaced : no sharks! This demonstrates the urgency in protecting sharks, which are now part of the endangered species. 100 million sharks disappear every year, cause being accidental bycatches and the high demand for shark fins.
Watch the mission video
Loggerhead turtle tagging with a National Geographic critter
July 21, 2009A turtle injured by a fishing net, that was the reason of our presence here. This animal, treated by the "Cestmed" association at the Seaquarium, was to be released into its natural habitat. We used this oppurtunity to equip it with a crittercam. Watch the video where the crittercam is installed
The mission was met with success. Indeed, the camera detached normally and we were able to retrieve and use the footage recorded.
Watch the "first footage of the Crittercam" video
REPCET Program
July 16, 2009The REPCET program held our attention during 10 days in Marseille. The objective of this tool is to anticipate collisions between ships and cetaceans. During this mission, we helped calibrate this program in collaboration with Pascal Mayol, president of the "Souffleur d'Ecumes" and "Chrysar" associations.
The weather conditions were unfortunately not favorable, and it was impossible to calibrate all the necessary settings due to strong winds. During a brief respite from the heavy winds, we managed to come across a whale. Thus, this sojourn left us with unforgettable memories. Beyond the scientific aspect, it was a true human adventure. Watch Pascal Mayol's interview
The mission was reconducted at the end of August whilst we were in Corsica at the Pelagos Sanctuary. This time the results were consequential.
We also used our time in Marseille to inaugurate Fleur de Passion, finally outfitted with its new sails.
The North Sails team, who supported us by designing and creating the sails for Fleur de Passion, came aboard to test them at sea for the first time. Ben Schagen, the director of North Sails Switzerland shared his first impressions.
Ben Schagen's interview
Inauguration of the Expedition - Marseille
July 12, 2009The big day has arrived! After seven years of labor and more than 70000 hours of work, Fleur de Passion has come back to Marseille.
Team visit of the Penisola del Sinis MPA
July 09, 2009The "Penisola del Sinis" site in Sardinia is the first step in our visits of protected marine reserves. After a short tour, we got to work; local scientists presented the research protocols they had developed to date. One of them, Matteo, an ornithologist, litterally fell in love with our ship, Fleur de Passion. It was unfortunately not possible for him to join us, but our roads will cross again very soon. Indeed, he is currently collaborating with us on the subject of marine birds.
Watch the video
Tunisia-Sardinia route : encounter with The Rainbow Warrior
July 08, 2009En route to Sardinia, we came across Green Peace's vessel, Rainbow Warrior. Its mission was to make sure that tuna fishers were respecting their quotas.
The journey continued quite slowly due to weak winds, and we arrived at destination after 5 days of navigation.
Watch the video of the encounter with the Rainbow Warrior
Departure
July 04, 2009Fleur de Passion is about to sail, and yet agitation reigns aboard until the very last instant! The preparation work will only be finished a few minutes before the departure. Finally we are leaving Tunisia for the beginning of this great expedition which will last 10 years and take us to all the seas on the globe.
Watch the video"
Tunisia : the Gulf of Gabès
July 03, 2009Our first mission was at the Gabès Gulf in Tunisia, not long after the departure of Fleur de Passion.
"Specifities of the Gabès Gulf" video
The two problematics we concentrated on were the pollution in the bay and overfishing.
The Gabès bay suffers from highly polluted offloads from local potassium mines. A huge clean-up is underway in order to remove all the polluted sand in the bay. This operation, financed by the IMF, will cost more than 65 billion euros. When finished, local inhabitants will rediscover a clean and healthy bay.
Overfishing has significantly reduced the quantity of fish in the bay. This was confirmed by a visit to the local fishing market in the medina. Many species such as sharks, red-finned tuna and meros are endangered today.
Watch the interview-testimony of Albert Falco
On top of this, the numerous trawlers present in this zone destroy the seabed with their brutal and irresponsible fishing techniques. In an attempt to resolve this problem, the tunisian government now encourages fishermen to revert to more traditional fishing techniques, which have less impact on the environment.
Despite efforts emanating from all sides, a conflict still subsists. Indeed, two worlds are living together without understanding one another; one very modern, driven by relentless profitability and the other of a more modest impact..Watch the video