Protecting Coral, One Dive at a Time 

In July, divers aboard the Turks & Caicos Explorer Il did more than explore the islands’ incredible underwater beauty-they suited up to help protect it. 

The latest RumPowered® Research Expedition, organized by the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund in partnership with Explorer Ventures Fleet, brought together passionate divers for a hands-on marine science experience focused on reef restoration and sustainability. 

Throughout the week, participants were immersed in coral reef science: learning to identify coral species, recognize early signs of disease, monitor fish populations, and administer treatments to support fragile coral colonies. Every diver got involved-cleaning coral ladders, re-tying support structures, and relocating healthy fragments to give these fragile corals a better chance to thrive. 

“This expedition is just one example of how much can be accomplished when divers get involved and become citizen scientists,” said Rachel Huber, Conservation Lead for Explorer Ventures. “From the coral nursery to data collection, every participant left with new skills and a deeper connection to the ocean we all love.” 

The trip also brought the Fleet’s Dive Green® Sustainability Promise to life-from encouraging Green Fins best practices and using reef-safe products to supporting local NGOs and logging survey data. Explorer Ventures integrates conservation into its operations by donating trips and building nonprofit partnerships, to creating impactful, educational experiences that go far beyond the dive deck. 

Get the full story and see photo highlights from the expedition here

To support coral reef restoration in Turks & Caicos or learn more about the vital work of the Turks & Caicos Reef Fund, visit www.tcreef.org