The National Geographic Society /Ashoka Nominate The 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project, Sea Excursions Selected as 'Changemaker' in Tourism
The National Geographic Society/Ashoka have nominated Sea Excursion's 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project to particpate in its worldwide Geotourism Challenge.
Marco Island, FL (PRWEB) May 6, 2008
The National Geographic Society, in association with its partner, Ashoka, nominated 456 organizations from 82 countries around the world to compete in its Geotourism Challenge, 55 of which were from the United States. The 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project is one of two nominees located in Florida and the only nominee from South Florida.
Launched on February 1st 2006, the 10,000 Islands Dolphin Project engages visitors and residents in daily hands-on structured encounters with wild dolphins resulting in valuable research shared with resource managers and organizations. Underwritten by Sea Excursions Inc., over 170 dolphins have been photo-identified, named by passengers and cataloged. While focused on dolphins, the twice daily expeditions on the Dolphin Explorer offer a well-rounded eco-tour experience led by a Master Naturalist. The Hilton Grand Vacation Resorts is a proud sponsor of the Project.
The Geotourism Challenge was launched to identify people and organizations that are innovative changemakers in geotourism, defined as sustaining and enhancing the geographical character of a destination...and raising the level of excellence in traveler experience. The spirit of the Challenge is to exchange ideas and information and to explore the possibilities of extending innovations to other areas of the globe.
A group of finalists will be selected in early summer and invited to join The National Geographic Society and Ashoka at their Changemaker's Change Summit in Fall 2008.
"It's very humbling, particularly after reading about the other nominees", said Chris Desmond, Founder and Director of the Project. "I think it speaks well of the qualities of all of us involved in tourism activities here in Southwest Florida. We are honored to be part of the global movement to create social change through the tourism sector."
The National Geographic Society, located in Washington D. C., is the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational organization. Founded in 1888 to "increase and diffuse geographic knowledge", the Society works to inspire more than 300 million people each month to care about the planet. Ashoka, also located in Washington D. C., is the global association of leading entrepreneurs focused on civic engagement, economic development, the environment, health, human rights, learning and education.
Rocky Beaudry, owner/operator of Sea Excurisions Inc., said" I couldn't pass on the opportunity to underwrite the Project. It's essential for all of us who live and visit this paradise to understand and contribute to its sustainability." Sea Excursions Inc. is the largest provider of water related activities and services to visitors, residents and hotels in Southwest Florida.
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