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Issue 112 - September 2024

Visual Storytelling to Feature at CCMI’s Festival of Seas: Coral Reef Horizons Gala

Keynote speaker, award-winning cameraman Doug Allan, will bring his experiences to Cayman to share the importance of imagery in conservation initiatives

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; 3rd September 2024: It’s no secret that coral reefs and other ocean habitats are having a hard time as our planet faces unprecedented challenges and rapidly changing conditions. The need to protect and restore coral reefs has never been more urgent. The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) is using the annual Festival of Seas gala in November as a way to prompt public interest in taking positive action for coral reefs at what is a critical time for the ocean.

To help tell the important story about the value of and connections we have to nature and coral reefs, award-winning Planet Earth and Blue Planet cameraman, Doug Allan, OBE, will be the featured speaker at CCMI’s annual gala on 16th November 2024. Thanks to Dart’s sponsorship as the underwriter for the gala speaker, CCMI can bring in someone of Mr Allan’s talent and experience to communicate important ideas as humankind imagines a new reality for the future of the ocean in the face of accelerating climate change.

Doug Allan

DOUG ALLAN QUOTE:

“In forty years of filmmaking on ocean series with the BBC, Discovery and National Geographic, I’ve worked with the best producers, editors and sound mixers. I’ve watched them take my raw images and weave their magic into themes and narratives that have touched the hearts and minds of hundreds of millions of viewers around the world.  That’s been an immense privilege, but this 2024 Gala will be a great platform to reach out even further.  It’ll be wonderful to be in the company of the inspirational scientists, staff and supporters of CCMI. Together we’ll look at important new stories about the oceans and explore exciting new ways to tell them.” 

In addition to providing the keynote address at the gala, Mr Allan will also announce the winners of a photo competition CCMI is running in the lead-up to the gala. Photographers are welcome to submit their entries into the Coral Reef Horizons photo contest through an online submission site. The goal is to invite photographers to help tell the story of Cayman’s coral reefs and human connections to the underwater environment. Submissions are accepted through 4th October for consideration; photographs must be taken in the Cayman Islands. 

Speaker sponsors, Dart, commented: “We have been supporting CCMI’s research and education programmes for more than 15 years through Dart, the Dart Foundation and the Kenneth B. Dart Foundation,” says Director Jackie Doak.  “We’re grateful for this opportunity to welcome Doug Allan whose powerful visual stories connect people with the marine habitats CCMI champions with its vital work.”

Project Manager, Robyn Larkin, states, “We are so excited to have Doug attend Festival of Seas this year! He has a wealth of experience capturing the beauty of natural places on film and sharing that with people through his work over 35 years. Doug is well positioned to help CCMI convey the importance of visual storytelling to the protection and conservation of critical habitats that are under pressure due to changing climate and human activity. His message will be an inspiration to our supporters as our team continues to secure a future for coral reefs.”

For more information about Festival of Seas: http://www.reefresearch.org/festival-of-seas/  

For full details about the Coral Reef Horizons photo competition: http://www.reefresearch.org/FOSphoto 

About the Festival of Seas: Coral Reef Horizons Gala

Festival of Seas is CCMI’s largest annual fundraiser The event is CCMI’s largest fundraiser of the year, raising money to support CCMI’s ongoing efforts and allowing the team to respond to new opportunities and challenges that may arise during the coming year. It is a chance for CCMI’s community of stakeholders and supporters, dedicated marine enthusiasts, and environmental ambassadors to come together with a common goal, taking positive action to support CCMI’s critical efforts and expand important work as we race against the clock. This year’s fundraising gala and dinner will take place:

Saturday, 16 November 2024
6:30 – 11:00 pm
Kimpton Seafire Resort & Spa
Tickets: CI $300 ea; table of 10: CI $3000
VIP Table of 10: CI $5000

Tickets can be reserved by emailing events@reefresearch.org; payment can be made via bank transfer. Alternately, tickets can be purchased online with a credit card or via PayPal at https://donate.reefresearch.org/FOS2024. Event sponsorship opportunities are available to help CCMI reach their fundraising goals.

About Doug Allan

Doug is an award-winning natural history photographer, documentary filmmaker, diver, author, and public speaker. https://dougallan.com/ 

During 35 years of filming, Doug has captured some of the most iconic wildlife scenes on television. He has worked on more than 65 films, making more than 25 trips to the Antarctic and 30 across the Arctic, while working for the BBC, Discovery, and National Geographic among others. His credits include Frozen Planet, Human Planet, Life, Planet Earth, The Blue Planet, Life in the Freezer, Hostile Planet, Forces of Nature, Operation Iceberg, and Ocean Giants. Doug was also one of the cameramen for and appeared in, the award-winning documentary A Plastic Ocean.

Doug’s photographic awards include eight Emmys, five BAFTAs, and five Wildscreen Pandas. He has twice won the underwater category in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year. He has three Honorary Doctorates in recognition of his camerawork and is an Honorary Fellow of the prestigious Royal Photographic Society and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Scottish Geographic Society. In August 2024 he was awarded an OBE for services to Broadcast Media and the Promotion of Environmental Awareness.

Doug’s dive experience includes more than 5,000 hours underwater with over 650 dives under ice. He’s even been hugged by a walrus and made friends with a narwhal!


About CCMI

CCMI is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1998 to protect the future of coral reefs, envisioning a world with vibrant oceans and healthy coral reef ecosystems. We seek to be the Caribbean’s premier marine research institute by delivering cutting edge research, transforming conservation strategy and developing education programmes of excellence – discovering and promoting real solutions to declining ocean health. We plan to invigorate key species and understand key ocean processes that drive reef resilience. We support early career scientists who are INNOVATING ways to improve coral reef health. We are TRANSFORMING conservation strategy and work to inspire the CHANGE that is needed to achieve our mission. CCMI are PIONEERS in the region working to reverse the decline of coral reefs. 

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Issue 112 - September 2024

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – September 2024 – Issue 112

SEVENSEAS Travel Magazine – September 2024 – Issue 112


Easter Island, Hard Work & Good Cheer for a Changing Climate-Challenged World

The anchor chain clinked and clanked through the hawsehole on the Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde until the large anchor set into white coral sands turned periwinkle blue by clear ocean waters. Read more…

New Seamount & Previously Unknown Species Discovered in High Priority Area for International Marine Protection

A team of oceanographers led by Schmidt Ocean Institute has discovered and mapped a new seamount on the Nazca Ridge in international waters, 900 miles off the coast of Chile. Read more…

The Wildlife Photographer of The Year in Milan Will be Even More Special This Year

‘The most prestigious nature photography exhibition in the world, featuring the 100 winning shots from the 60th edition of the competition organized by the Natural History Museum in London, will be presented for the first time in Milan. Read more…

SEVENSEAS Media Takes a Stand Against Shark Fin Consumption in Thailand

Despite global awareness of the devastating impact of shark finning on marine ecosystems, the practice continues, driven by outdated traditions and misconceptions about status. Our campaign is dedicated to educating and empowering the younger generation to take charge of changing these harmful habits. Read more…

Guy Harvey Foundation Announces Educational Partnership with Florida Fin Fest

Guy Harvey Foundation (GHF), the non-profit organization that promotes marine conservation, funds innovative scientific research, and develops cutting-edge educational programs for students, has announced a partnership with Florida Fin Fest. Read more…

Announcing a New Partnership Between SEVENSEAS Media and Deep Sea Reporter

Areal view of a fishing boat hauling in a net

Together, by pooling our resources and expertise, we aim to amplify our shared message, that a healthy ocean is crucial to life on Earth. This collaboration enables us to reach broader audiences and present richer, more comprehensive content than ever before. Read more…

Visual Storytelling to Feature at CCMI’s Festival of Seas: Coral Reef Horizons Gala

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands; 3rd September 2024: It’s no secret that coral reefs and other ocean habitats are having a hard time as our planet faces unprecedented challenges and rapidly changing conditions. The need to protect and restore coral reefs has never been more urgent. The Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) is using the annual Festival of Seas gala in November as a way to prompt public interest in taking positive action for coral reefs at what is a critical time for the ocean. More info…

Feature Destination: The Cayman Islands

Boat on the horizon of the Cayman islands

The Cayman Islands, a collection of three small but ecologically rich islands nestled in the Caribbean Sea, offer more than just a tropical escape. Known for their crystalline waters, vibrant coral reefs, and steadfast commitment to environmental preservation. Read more…

Calling All Photographers to Celebrate the Natural Beauty of the Cayman Islands

On June 7th, 2024, the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) launched the Coral Reef Horizons photography competition, inviting photographers of all abilities to submit their images that celebrate the vibrant coral reefs of Cayman and the diversity of life that relies upon them. See more…

Feature Destination: Cayman Islands CCMI Festival of Seas

Join the Central Caribbean Marine Institute (CCMI) as we look toward the horizon, the future, and what it means for coral reefs. The heating and disease events of last summer suggest that the impacts of climate change on coral reefs are intensifying. Read more…

Guy Harvey and 4ocean Release New Limited Edition Product Line

Guy Harvey, world-renowned marine wildlife artist, scientist and conservationist, has once again partnered with 4ocean, a global leader in ocean cleanup, to introduce two limited edition t-shirts and a braided shark bracelet, available exclusively on 4ocean.com. Read more…

Guy Harvey Partners with Ukes USA to Launch Premium Sunglass Straps Collection

World-renowned marine wildlife artist, scientist and conservationist Dr. Guy Harvey, has partnered with Ukes USA, an innovative eyeglass retainer brand known for uniquely designed products in vibrant colors. See more…

Sustainable Tourism in Hawaii: How to Travel Responsibly

A unique natural oasis, the Hawaiian archipelago has been attracting leisure-seeking travelers for over a century. And this is not much of a surprise. Considering the attractiveness of the islands, coupled with a hefty marketing spend, Hawaii regularly tops the list of the most desired holiday destinations for US tourists. Read more…

Bait Ball Massacre – Under the Waves with Karim Iliya, September 2024

Karim Photo Banner for September 2024

A sure death for this small fish, as the marlin jumped out of the water, spearing the little fish as it landed. Here, striped marlins congregate near a sea lion colony where they bring fish up from the depths, corral them into tight balls, and pick them off one by one. Read more…

Nominations For the 2025 Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ Are Now Open!

Nominations for the prestigious Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ are open now through November 18th. Often referred to as the ‘Academy Awards for the Ocean’, these honors commemorate Peter Benchley. Read more…


The FREE Weekly Conservation Post and Jobs List

Signing up for the free Weekly Newsletter & Jobs List will get you a round-up of upcoming events, webinars, meetings, reports, funding opportunities, photos of the week, and recent postings to the jobs list.

To sign up for our free subscription, please Click Here,  or email us Here

Since 2004, SEVENSEAS Media has fostered an informal and non-partisan platform to promote understanding of key issues and challenges while building partnerships across an increasingly diverse group of marine conservation professionals and students.

Our mission is to promote communication and build partnerships across the global marine community and to identify and address gaps in the community’s work. SEVENSEAS Media achieves this through multimedia promotion and partnerships. The community consists of a diverse and growing group of participants, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, foundations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, fellowship programs, independent consultants, and academia/students.

If you are interested in contributing or getting involved, email Here


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Issue 112 - September 2024

Nominations For the 2025 Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ Are Now Open!

Nominations for the prestigious Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ are open now through November 18th. Often referred to as the ‘Academy Awards for the Ocean’, these honors commemorate Peter Benchley, a lifelong advocate for sharks and ocean preservation and the renowned author of the iconic novel Jaws. Founded to recognize individuals across an array of fields that impact the ocean, the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ honor those providing innovative solutions to the challenges facing our ocean, ecosystems, wildlife, and climate. Award categories include:

  • Excellence in National Leadership – Awarded to the representative of a nation that has made an exceptional contribution to the conservation, restoration, and appreciation of our global ocean.
  • Excellence in Policy—Awarded to an individual who contributes to advancing the cause of sustainable ocean use and conservation based on the best available science and through the establishment of effective and enforceable laws and regulations.
  • Excellence in Action—Awarded to a marine grassroots organization, team, or individual that has made a major and long-term commitment to improving the quality of our oceans and the communities that depend on them.
  • Excellence in Science and Exploration—Awarded to an individual or organization that contributes to our understanding of the ocean through cutting-edge marine science and/or bold exploration and courageous efforts to uncover new and different aspects of our ocean planet. 
  • Excellence in Media – Awarded to an individual or media outlet that showcases an exceptional ability to communicate ocean issues of concern to the public in ways that inform and/or inspire people to act as engaged citizens. 
  • Excellence in Sustainable Business Solutions – Awarded to a business that helps find or create sustainable solutions to one of the many environmental challenges confronting our ocean.
  • Christopher Benchley Youth Award – Awarded to a young person who, early in life, has already made a significant contribution to marine conservation and public education about our ocean.
  • Ocean Hero—Awarded to an individual who shows exceptional ability in communicating ocean issues of concern to the public in ways that inform and/or inspire people to act.

The selection process for the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ is overseen by a respected committee of ocean conservation leaders, ensuring a fair and rigorous selection process that upholds the high standards and values of the awards. The 2025 Selection Committee includes:

  • Wendy Benchley – Ocean Conservation and Policy Advocate
  • Jasmin Grahm – CEO and Co-Founder, Minorities in Shark Sciences
  • Dr. Sylvia Earle – Pioneering Oceanographer, National Geographic Explorer in Residence, and Founder of Mission Blue Sylvia Earle Alliance
  • David Helvarg – Author, Founder and Executive Director, Blue Frontier
  • Kim McIntyre – Executive Director, Aquarium Conservation Partnership
  • John Racanelli – CEO, National Aquarium
  • Sean Russell – Director of Youth Engagement, EarthEcho International
  • Dr. Enric Sala – National Geographic Explorer in Residence
  • Vikki Spruill – CEO, New England Aquarium
  • ‘Aulani Wilhelm – Chief Strategy & External Relations Officer, Nia Tero

The Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™ mark their return in collaboration with the Aquarium Conservation Partnership (ACP) on May 1, 2025, at the National Aquarium in Baltimore, MD in time to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the original release of the movie Jaws. Past honorees can be found here. 


About the Peter Benchley Ocean Awards™

The Peter Benchley Ocean Awards was co-founded by Wendy Benchley and David Helvarg and named in honor of Peter Benchley, author of Jaws and lifelong shark and ocean advocate. The Benchley Awards recognize and celebrate the work and dedication of individuals committed to ocean conservation excellence. https://peterbenchleyoceanawards.org/ 

About ACP:

The Aquarium Conservation Partnership is a coalition of aquariums working together to increase our conservation impact. Collectively, our 31 members in 21 states and Canada welcome over 35 million visitors a year. ACP members advocate for policy change, advance federal and state conservation policies, mobilize audiences to take action and demonstrate our commitment to conservation in our business practices. Our mission is to safeguard ocean and freshwater ecosystems by aligning and supporting the conservation efforts of aquariums for greater collective and individual impact.  https://www.aquariumconservation.org/ 


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Conservation Photography

Bait Ball Massacre – Under the Waves with Karim Iliya, September 2024

A sure death for this small fish, as the marlin jumped out of the water, spearing the little fish as it landed. Here, striped marlins congregate near a sea lion colony where they bring fish up from the depths, corral them into tight balls, and pick them off one by one. I spent three days documenting these feeding frenzies- watching countless terrified fish caught in the frays of nature’s greatest challenge. Low on the food chain, the fish’s best hope of survival is in the safety of numbers, but when dozens of apex predators gather, that can be their downfall. Many times a bait ball of fish is hunted down to the very last fish, leaving only the shimmering scales floating in the blue.

A terrifying scene for the small fish, fleeing for their lives as a striped marlin hunts them. Here, the slightest mistake means life or death as the marlin’s bill slices through the water during a high-speed hunt. These fish have very little respite, as birds try to hunt from above, and more than a dozen other marlin and sea lions all attack the same small ball of fish. Marlin is one of the fastest fish in the world, a terrifying predator for a small fish in the great blue desert. | When photographing wildlife moving at high speed such as fish or birds, it’s important to use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion.


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Karim was published in National Geographic magazine for his humpback whale photography. He now leads his own trips so that others can swim with whales.

If you are interested in swimming with or photographing humpback whales, Karim guides people on small trips between August and October every year in Tonga. Visit www.dancewithwhales.com to find out more

To see more of Karim’s work, visit his website at www.karimphotography.com

Karim headshot

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