PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Memorandum of Understanding Signed During February Familiarization Trip
Golfito, Costa Rica and Coral Gables, Florida – March 18, 2024 – At the end of February 2024, the board of directors of The International SeaKeepers Society, as well as key collaborators, spent a week at Marina Bahia Golfito (MBG)—a leading Costa Rica superyacht, sportfishing and eco-tourism haven—as guests of MBG and Enjoy Group—since 1973, a foremost hospitality company in Costa Rica.
Executive leadership of SeaKeepers, MBG and Enjoy Group—convened by superyacht industry consultants, Bob Saxon, Bob Saxon Consultancy and Amy Halsted, Creative Director—met during last year’s Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show to discuss and develop the foundations of a collaborative relationship with far-reaching implications for the health of the oceans, the furtherance of scientific study, and to recognize the unique offerings of the celebrated biodiversity of the Golfito region and Costa Rica.
The Richness of Experience Leads to Memorandum of Understanding
During their time at Marina Bahia Golfito, a cornerstone of SeaKeepers’ immersive experience included exposure to the magnitude of habitat protections and conservation efforts inherent in southern Costa Rica. Propelled by a focus of amplifying SeaKeepers’ vision and mission in tandem with MBG and Enjoy Group’s efforts for sustainable development, the organizations’ principals reached and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Highlights of the agreement include:
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- Overlapping Goals & Common Pursuits
- Joint Willingness to Create Shared Objectives
- The Spirit of Cooperation between SeaKeepers, Enjoy Group & Marina Bahia Golfito
- Golfito, Costa Rica as an Ideal Location to Foster & Enhance The International SeaKeepers Society’s Objectives
Jay Wade, Javier Pacheco, and Dr. Mark Luther Comment on the Collaboration
“Words cannot express the totality of the Golfito experience and the hospitality of both Enjoy Group and Marina Bahia Golfito,” comments Jay Wade, SeaKeepers’ Board Chairman. “For those of us whose life’s work is the health of the world’s oceans, a first trip to southern Costa Rica is beyond breathtaking. It’s inspirational and aspirational. Our full board is fully ready to see where this collaborative relationship with Enjoy Group and MBG will lead,” he continues.
Javier Pacheco, Executive President of Enjoy Group and Marina Bahia Golfito says, “Sustainability and the deepest dedication to habitat, the environment, and a fundamental belief of the interdependence of planet, people, oceans, lands, and conservation efforts are intrinsic to Costa Rica and our way of conducting our affairs. The International SeaKeepers Society initiative is a natural—and exciting—fit for us.”
“Progress is already underway for a SeaKeepers’ initiative to send ocean researchers and scientists to MBG,” says Dr. Mark Luther, Board Member and Chair of SeaKeepers Science Advisory Council. “Of course, this is but the beginning of what we are sure will have significant impacts. The first order of business is to develop preliminary plans for the implementation of shared science, conservation, education, and public outreach goals. Ultimately, we’d like to see a research facility at the marina with ongoing sponsorship of visiting scientists and fellows along with a science education center and museum to highlight the fascinating ecology of the Golfo Dulce region for both visitors and local residents. I’m certain that we will unearth all manner of additional cooperative programs.”
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IMAGES
International SeaKeepers Board, with Bob Saxon
Sunset Kayaking with SeaKeepers, Marina Bahia Golfito
l. to. r. Jay Wade (SeaKeepers Chair), Bob Saxon (Bob Saxon Consultancy), Javier Pacheco (Enjoy Group Executive President)
About Marina Bahia Golfito
Located in one of the most vibrant destinations in Costa Rica, Golfito Bay is a “gulf within a gulf”, a pristine landscape framed by the lush mangroves of Corcovado and Piedras Blancas National Parks and home to some of the richest biodiversity in the world. It is here
that yachtsmen, big game anglers, eco-adventurers, boaters, surfers, and outdoor lovers of all ages and interests reconnect with nature through an array of exhilarating adventures and activities.
This lush spot in the South Pacific offers the necessary amenities starting with berths of 40 to 350 feet in length. In addition, AMAKA Ocean Living Lodge (oceanfront hotel), La Playa Restaurant, and the MBG Crew Lounge offer worldclass services for those visiting on land and those who arrive by sea.
Marina Bahia Golfito is a property of Costa Rican hospitality company, Enjoy Group, and a part of IGY’s global network.
Marina Bahia Golfito
About Enjoy Group
Since 1973, Enjoy Group has innovated, developed, and managed projects in the hospitality industry of the Costa Rica and the Central American region. Deeply dedicated to its guests’ and employees’ experiences, Enjoy Group currently operates more than a dozen properties, including hotels, restaurants, destinations, and corporate services, making it a leading company in the tourism sector.
Enjoy Group is committed to generating a positive impact through commitment to five strategic pillars: company employees and families, environmental protection and responsibility, social and community outreach, ethics and transparency, and adequate supplier management.
Enjoy Group Costa Rica
Enjoy Group—LinkedIn
About The International SeaKeepers Society
The International SeaKeepers Society promotes oceanographic research, conservation, and education through direct involvement with the yachting community. Providing educational resources and hands-on marine science experiences to students is the primary focus for ensuring the future wellbeing of our planet. SeaKeepers enables the yachting community to take full advantage of their unique potential to advance marine sciences and raise awareness about global ocean issues.
seakeepers.org