Marine Research Program Aboard Royal Clipper

Guests on Royal Clipper, the flagship of the Star Clippers fleet, can take part in marine research and learn about the marine biology and ecology of the area in which the ship is sailing.

Italian marine biologist Dr. Mariano Peruzzo is the resident marine expert on Royal Clipper for its Caribbean and Mediterranean sailings.

“With my passion for the environment, this program seemed like a natural progression and a perfect fit for our tall sailing ships,” said Mikael Krafft, owner and president of Star Clippers. “We at Star Clippers are committed to preserving the environment, and by having Dr. Peruzzo on board we hope to pass on our enthusiasm to our guests.”

Peruzzo, a graduate of the University of Genoa in biological sciences, gives daily talks to guests on marine biology relevant to the ship’s itinerary. He also offers presentations on the history of oceanography, coral reefs, geology, cetaceans (whales and dolphins) and marine reptiles such as turtles. The complimentary lectures also touch on the issue of climate change, its causes and contributing factors.

In addition to the educational program, Peruzzo is available to guests throughout each day as he continues his research on local marine environments. Enthusiasts can join him at dawn on deck to watch for and log whales and dolphins, join him on dives and snorkeling trips, and even for beach walks in areas of ecological interest. The daily finds are logged and will be used in Peruzzo’s collaborations with various environmental projects worldwide.

With the assistance of Krafft, Peruzzo also is in the process of setting up a small laboratory on board Royal Clipper to show guests the technical workings of a marine biology research project and to achieve a heightened awareness of the importance of environmental issues.

To request a brochure, call toll-free (800) 442-0556 or e-mail brochures@starclippers.com. To make a reservation, contact a travel professional. For information, call Star Clippers at 1-800-442-0551 or visit http://www.starclippers.com to view a video about the line or take a virtual tour of the Star Clippers ships.