I am happy to inform you that our poster, “Sail for Science – How Sailors Can Help Scientists to Fill Gaps in Oceanographic Data“, was presented at the International Ocean Data Conference – III (IODC-III) in Santa Marta, Colombia, on March 10-11. I took part in the conference online, directly from our SV Oceanolog, sailing the waters of the Colombian archipelago of Los Rosarios—a stunning Coral National Natural Park known for its rich biodiversity and pristine waters.
As we approached the Islas del Rosario archipelago, the sight of turquoise waters, mangrove-covered shores, and white sandy beaches immediately captured our hearts. The protected coral reefs surrounding the islands create an underwater paradise, making it one of the best spots in the Caribbean for snorkeling and diving.
Before leaving the archipelago, we made a stop at Isla Marina, one of the smaller islands of Islas del Rosario. Here, we had an unforgettable wildlife experience—a visit to a large colony of frigatebirds.
As we approached the island, we could already see the massive birds soaring overhead, their distinctive forked tails and long wingspans making them easy to identify. The males, in particular, were a sight to behold—their red throat pouches puffed up like balloons, an impressive display meant to attract mates. The air was filled with the sounds of squawking and the rustling of wings as hundreds of these birds perched in the trees, occasionally taking off in search of food.
Unlike other seabirds, frigatebirds cannot land on water because their feathers are not waterproof. Instead, they steal fish from other birds or catch flying fish mid-air. Watching them maneuver so effortlessly in the sky was truly mesmerizing.
We carefully navigated our dinghy around the mangrove-lined shores, marveling at the sheer number of birds nesting in the trees. The experience was a powerful reminder of how these islands are not just a paradise for humans but also a crucial sanctuary for wildlife.
Sailing southwest from Cartagena, the crew of SV Oceanolog set course for one of the most breathtaking natural wonders of the Colombian Caribbean—Islas del Rosario National Park. This stunning archipelago of 27 islands, located about 30 kilometers off the coast, is part of a protected marine reserve known for its pristine coral reefs, turquoise waters, and rich biodiversity.
As we approached, the clear, shallow waters revealed a mesmerizing world beneath the surface. Anchoring in a sheltered bay, we were greeted by small sandy cays, mangrove forests, and palm-fringed shores. The islands are home to some of the most well-preserved coral reefs in the Caribbean, making them an ideal destination for snorkeling and marine exploration.
Equipped with masks and fins, we plunged into the warm waters and were immediately surrounded by a dazzling array of marine life. The vibrant coral formations created an underwater landscape of branching elkhorn corals, delicate brain corals, and swaying sea fans. Schools of colorful reef fish darted through the corals—the waters were alive with movement, a true testament to the park’s status as a protected marine sanctuary.
After hours of exploring the underwater gardens, we returned to the yacht, basking in the beauty of the crystal-clear waters and unspoiled surroundings. As the sun set, painting the sky in shades of pink and gold, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a fragile and breathtaking ecosystem.
Our visit to Islas del Rosario National Park was a reminder of the importance of marine conservation. These reefs are not just a diver’s paradise—they are a vital habitat that must be protected for future generations. As sailors, we are privileged to witness these wonders, but we also carry the responsibility to respect and preserve them.
