The Hurghada Environmental Protection and Conservation Association (HEPCA) is running the research as part of its long-term Red Sea Dolphin Project.
The work is being carried out in four segments from early June to late August, aboard HEPCA’s 37m-long, steel-hulled Red Sea Defender.
Those who participate will “be involved in many different activities including close observation of dolphins in the open sea and inside reefs”.
Groups of dolphins will be picked up with the help of a towed hydrophone.
Other studies during the ten-day voyages are likely to involve “corals, molluscs, echinoderms, fish, turtles and dugongs”.
Guest team members will work with HEPCA’s own scientific researchers, who will share their knowledge of marine life, research methods and diving practices.
Four teams, including topside observers, scientists and divers, are being put together for the dates 6-16 June, 17-27 June, 1-11 August and 12-22 August.
Prices start at about 1,500 euros per person.
Red Sea Defender was taken on by HEPCA in January as the “first maritime vessel dedicated to research and conservation activity throughout the Red Sea”.
The organisation intends to “host scientists and researchers from all over the world” aboard the vessel, which is equipped with wet and dry laboratories and advanced research software.
To enquire about the Red Sea Dolphin Project placings, which are open to individuals or groups, contact Marina Costa, HEPCA Senior Marine Biologist, at booking@hepca.com.
Related links
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