Sea Ranger Service to be expanded

The past year was a turning point for the Sea Ranger Service, marked by new milestones, significant recognitions and a growing impact in all areas of the mission. A look back at the highlights of 2024.

In 2024, the SRS organised a Bootcamp in the UK for the first time, bringing together participants from across the country to go through intensive training. This programme focuses on personal growth, alongside the skills needed by a Sea Ranger. The bootcamp underlines SRS’ commitment to expanding internationally, inspiring a new generation of young people who want to make a difference to the planet.
The first eight UK Sea Rangers were selected in 2024. These young pioneers will engage in maritime work and ocean conservation in the UK.
Experience within the teams continues to grow, with Nathalie de Bruin, Claudia Breet and Cariad Margetson taking on the role of Senior Sea Ranger. They show what can be achieved with passion and hard work. Next year, they will use their knowledge and experience to mentor new Sea Rangers.

Seagrass

With the establishment of a dedicated team for seagrass restoration, Sea Rangers’ work has continued to expand to other countries. Sea Rangers such as Nathalie de Bruin, Rik Armando Ridder, Madelon Schellekens, Reiny Sangster, Ditmar van Poeteren and Julia Nöth play a key role in seagrass restoration in the Netherlands, France and the UK. Important steps have also been made in Denmark, Germany and Spain in seed collection and monitoring.

New ship

The SRS patrols Dutch and international waters with the Fantastiko. Successful fundraising enabled the construction of a new ship. The new sailing working vessel for the Sea Ranger Service is nearing completion. After funding was received for construction last year, the construction project is nearing completion and the vessel will be commissioned in 2025 after tests and sea trials.

Recognition

In November, the work of the Sea Ranger Service received special recognition in the House of Lords. This celebrated the organisation’s innovative approach to ocean conservation and youth development. The prestigious recognition from Lord Teverson and Lord Randall highlights the growing impact of the Sea Ranger Service’s mission and the importance of inspiring young people to choose maritime professions combined with conservation.

Source and image: Sea Ranger Service newsletter.

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