DESTINATIONS CITIZEN SCIENCE | SUSTAINABLE TRAVEL operators operators ASK THE


“The wonderful thing about citizen science is that no prior experience is necessary – it’s open to anyone to get involved. Getting hands-on with science allows guests to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the area they are visiting.”


CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: In Finland with Exodus; Intrepid in Antarctica; collecting freshwater samples;


Hurtigruten Science Centre; microscopic life (inset) PICTURES: Matt Cherubino Photography; Agurtxane Concellon; Gwilymcpugh


Lake, for example, guests will help cut holes in the ice to get to the fresh water and take samples. Once these have been analysed, they’ll receive a report on which species were found and how their efforts help scientists protect biodiversity in the area. On expedition cruises with AE Expeditions and


Hurtigruten, guests can take part in the Globe Cloud Observation project, in collaboration with Nasa, where they record cloud cover from the ground – scientists then use this in conjunction with satellite images taken from above. As part of the global Happywhale scheme, clients send scientists images of whales, so they can identify and track them through tail fluke markings. Those on Antarctic voyages with G Adventures,


Intrepid Travel, Hurtigruten and AE Expeditions can collect phytoplankton samples to measure the impact of climate change on the marine food web. They can also contribute to the seabird survey eBird – which monitors birds’ movements and notes details such as differences in breeding cycles – by recording sightings on their cruise.


WHAT ARE THE ITINERARIES LIKE? Citizen science excursions normally form part of a wider itinerary and could last from a few hours to a day, letting clients do something good while still enjoying a holiday. “Volunteering holidays are fantastic but aren’t for


everyone,” says Responsible Travel’s Francis. “On these trips, people are taking the holiday they want and need, with the addition of a short, interesting activity that enables them to have a positive impact.”


travelweekly.co.uk As Rochelle Turner, head of sustainability at Exodus


Travels, explains: “The science element within our citizen science trips is a small part of the overall adventure. Clients will still have their incredible experience walking, cycling and all the usual wonderful things they expect.” All of Hurtigruten’s sailings have a citizen science


programme, so clients can enjoy, say, a trip hunting for the northern lights while dipping a toe into the world of conservation. But there is also an opportunity to learn more about science in talks on board. For example, guests taking phytoplankton recordings will be given introductory lectures before heading out to take samples. Later that day, in the ship’s Science Centre, they’ll look at life in single water droplets through a microscope. “These rich educational experiences lead to lifelong memories and true ambassadorship for the region,” says Emily Baxter, head of guest learning at Hurtigruten. “By taking part in citizen science, you can help to change the world, one adventure at a time.”


TW BOOK IT


Exodus Travels’ 16-day Discover Costa Rica trip starts at £4,449, including flights, accommodation, most meals and transfers. A tour featuring eBio Atlas citizen science departs on July 22. exodus.co.uk Hurtigruten offers a 15-day Northern Lights Expedition Cruise from London on board MS Maud, with prices from £2,990, including meals, for a September 30 departure. Citizen science elements include Happywhale and Globe Cloud Observation. agentportal.hurtigruten.com Intrepid Travel’s 11-day WWF Giants of Antarctica expedition on board Ocean Endeavour starts at £5,800, including meals and activities, along with the Happywhale citizen science element. The sailing departs from Ushuaia, Argentina, on March 9, 2024. International flights extra. intrepidtravel.com


13 APRIL 2023 33 Emily Baxter,


head of guest learning, Hurtigruten


“Nature and biodiversity are under huge threat. Travellers have a chance to help the scientific and conservation community to understand biodiversity threats, and the small act of taking samples can play an important role in supporting our knowledge.”


Rochelle Turner,


head of sustainability, Exodus Travels


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