As global attention turns to the health of the world’s oceans, andBeyond is directing renewed focus to the Indian Ocean coastline.
“Our oceans face unprecedented threats,” said Joss Kent, CEO of andBeyond. “Climate change, overfishing, pollution and other human pressures are placing increasing strain on marine resources. Oceans cross no borders, so international cooperation is essential. Our goal has always been to leave the world better than we found it. If we don’t act now, we risk losing coral reefs and the diverse species they support within our lifetime. Our three island properties sit in locations that are vital for replenishing coral reefs and fish populations, making their protection urgent.”
The Oceans Without Borders program operating across the three island properties implements a conservation model focused on practical, scalable actions. Key elements include expanding and providing logistical support for existing marine protected areas; elevating some protected zones to full marine reserves; promoting sustainable, tourism-driven benefits for local communities; supporting ongoing conservation and scientific research; and developing flagship projects that highlight the challenges facing marine ecosystems.
“Each property involved in the program has identified its own conservation and research priorities,” said Dr. Tessa Hempson, operations manager for Oceans Without Borders. andBeyond Mnemba Island is pursuing an upgrade of its marine conservation area; andBeyond Benguerra places emphasis on community-led projects that link local livelihoods to healthy seas; and andBeyond Vamizi Island runs targeted programs to monitor predator species, including tagging grey reef sharks to better understand their populations and movements.
For travelers who want a meaningful, educational experience, andBeyond now offers the Oceans Without Borders Small Group Journey, an opportunity to join Hempson and her team at andBeyond Vamizi Island. The itinerary combines close-up learning about marine ecosystems with hands-on conservation insights, and all profits from the program are reinvested into marine protection initiatives.
By combining protected-area management, community engagement, research support and sustainable tourism, Oceans Without Borders seeks to strengthen the resilience of coral reefs and coastal fisheries while delivering lasting benefits for people who depend on healthy oceans. The program underscores the idea that protecting marine environments not only preserves biodiversity but also supports coastal communities and future generations of travelers and residents alike.