WILLEMSTAD – The Caribbean Cetacean Society (CCS) has launched a seven-day scientific expedition to study whales and dolphins around the ABC islands. On the very first day, researchers recorded an impressive sighting of more than 200 dolphins from two different species just a few miles off the coast of Curaçao.

The research mission will continue from Curaçao to Aruba and Bonaire. It marks the third consecutive year that CCS has conducted large-scale marine surveys in the region.

Push for a Marine Reserve

Curaçao’s Minister of Health, Environment and Nature expressed interest last year in establishing a marine reserve to safeguard the island’s rich marine biodiversity, including its whale and dolphin populations. If implemented, Curaçao would follow the example of Bonaire, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and the Dominican Republic, which already have such protected zones.

“As a child of this island, it is my mission to ensure that future generations on Curaçao can continue to enjoy the wealth of our seas,” said Stacey Mac Donald, regional coordinator for the Dutch Caribbean at CCS.

Ecological Importance

Whales and dolphins play a critical role in regulating food chains, storing carbon, and enriching ecosystems. Their protection is considered vital for both biodiversity and the sustainability of coastal communities that depend on marine resources.

The CCS expeditions follow a standardized research protocol endorsed by the UNESCO Ocean Decade program, ensuring the data contributes to global knowledge on species distribution, migration, and threats.

Strong Local and International Support

The expedition is supported by a network of international and local partners, including WWF, Blue Marine Foundation, Kooyman, Curaçao Sea Aquarium, CESAM Floreal, and Fondation de la Mer. On the ground, Curaçao-based organizations such as COIA, GMN, FKUP, and Piskabon are collaborating with fishermen to help researchers monitor species across the islands.