Red Sea Dolphin Study May 26, 2010 by lukesheppard

Divers are being invited by a leading Egyptian Conservation Organisation to join its research vessel which is holding a dedicated study of Red Sea dolphins. The organisation running the study is the Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (or HEPCA). It’s a part of their long-term Red Sea Dolphin Project. The study is being carried out in four sections, running from early June to late August, aboard the 37 metre, steel-hulled Red Sea Defender which was taken on by HEPCA in January as the first maritime vessel which is dedicated to the research and conservation activity in the Red Sea. The vessel’s well equipped with wet and dry laboratories and advanced research software needed for the study. Those who take part in the study will be involved in a range of different activities including the close observation of dolphins in the open sea and inside reefs. Groups of dolphins will be picked up with a towed hydrophone’s help. Other studies will take place over the ten-day voyages such as corals, echinoderms, molluscs, turtles, fish and dugongs. HEPCA’s scientific researchers and guest team members will work together to share their knowledge of marine life, diving practices and research methods. The four teams that are being put together for the 6-16 June, 17-27 June, 1-11 August and 12-22 August include scientists, divers and topside observers. Prices for the trip start at around 1500 Euros each. The organisation is hoping to host researchers and scientists from all over the world on board the vessel. If you or a group of divers like the sound of this project, head to the HEPCA website where you can find out more and contact them.