Restoring Coral Together with Virgin Voyages
On February 15, Virgin Voyages guests joined EcoSoluciones RD and Global Coralition for an immersive coral restoration experience at our coral laboratory in Sosúa, exploring microfragmentation and marine ecosystem science firsthand.
On the afternoon of February 15, our coral laboratory in Sosúa became a space of discovery, curiosity, and hands-on science. Nineteen participants from Virgin Voyages joined EcoSoluciones RD, Global Coralition’s operational hub in the Dominican Republic, for an immersive educational experience focused on reef restoration.
The session took place at our coral laboratory, located within Isla Academy, where we conduct research, coral propagation, and restoration preparation. From 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., participants were introduced to the work we carry out along the north coast and to our broader mission of restoring and protecting coral reef ecosystems.
The experience began with an overview of why coral reefs matter, not only as biodiversity hotspots, but as living barriers that protect coastlines, sustain fisheries, and support island communities.
This was not just a presentation. It was active participation.
Guided by our coral technician, Melf, the group explored the science behind coral microfragmentation, a technique that accelerates coral growth and increases reef recovery rates. Participants carefully fragmented coral, attached pieces to cement bases, and prepared them for future installation on underwater restoration domes.
They also collected water samples and measured pH and salinity levels, gaining insight into how environmental conditions directly influence coral health. These steps revealed the level of precision and monitoring required to ensure successful restoration.
Throughout the workshop, curiosity was evident. Questions flowed, hands stayed busy, and conversations reflected genuine interest in understanding both the challenges facing coral reefs and the innovative solutions being implemented locally.
After the laboratory session, the group shared lunch at a nearby beach, taking time to reflect beside the very ocean they had just learned to help restore, before returning to their cruise ship.
Experiences like this demonstrate the power of combining science with accessibility. By opening our laboratory to partners and visitors, we turn restoration into a shared journey. Awareness becomes personal. Conservation becomes tangible.
At Global Coralition, coral restoration is not only about rebuilding ecosystems. It is about strengthening the connection between people and the ocean. Every fragment prepared in our lab represents future growth underwater, contributing to restoration sites such as those surrounding our iconic Atabey sculpture in Sosúa Bay.
Restoring coral is more than a technical process. It is a collective commitment to the resilience of our reefs and the communities that depend on them.