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DRONES FOR MARINE CONSERVATION

EXPEDITION
ALL THE YEAR

​ 5 HOURS
🇨🇷 En español | Projects - Blog

Let's explore the ocean. Support marine conservation through aerial technology starting at $50 per person:
    Over 18 years old
    Between 6 - 11 years old.
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in what consist this Expedition?

In this experience, participants will learn firsthand how drones can become allies for marine conservation on the beaches of the Baulas-Conchal Coastal Marine Biological Corridor. We start with a presentation explaining basic flight concepts, automatic mission planning, environmental factors influencing operations, national regulations, and the process for obtaining flight licenses.
Then, we will visit one of the biological corridor's beaches for a practical demonstration with two types of drones (DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Mavic 3 Enterprise Thermal) to observe marine fauna from the air, possibly including sea turtles, sharks, rays, etc.; including the use of nighttime thermal vision. Finally, we will explore how to apply artificial intelligence to analyze the obtained videos and automatically detect animals or threats, and the role of technology in conservation.

Why is it important?​

Aerial monitoring using drones is a key tool for protecting marine biodiversity. It allows for the detection of fauna, boats, nets, or debris without disturbing the environment, as well as approaching the sea—a little-explored medium—in a different way.

This training seeks to empower more people (professionals, interns, and the general public) with technical knowledge that strengthens environmental surveillance and promotes responsible flight and conservation practices. Furthermore, it aims to explore and support the use of these tools to promote ecological connectivity efforts in a marine and coastal biological corridor.

We contribute to sustainable development

This activity seeks to considerably increase the number of youths and adults who have the necessary skills, particularly technical and professional, to access employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship; as well as to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal ecosystems to avoid significant adverse effects, including strengthening their resilience, and take measures to restore them in order to re-establish the health and productivity of the oceans.
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incluye

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Training by a biologist with experience in sea turtle conservation projects.
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Field demonstrations with drones operated by a certified pilot with over 500 flight hours.​
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Introduction to the use of artificial intelligence for video analysis.​
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Advice on licenses, regulations, and best practices.​
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Contribution to research efforts.

Considere

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Consider walking tours of at least 1 km on the beach. Not recommended for children under 8, people with high blood pressure, or with any physical impairment.

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Minors between 8 and 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult. Each person must have accident insurance, which includes repatriation for non-residents.

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It takes place in sites with high sun exposure. The use of sunscreen, a hat, comfortable clothing, and carrying a water bottle is urged.

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We will visit rocky and sandy beaches; it is suggested to bring appropriate footwear for walking on rocks or closed-toe shoes that can withstand seawater.

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The activity depends on the low tide, which varies depending on the day. The start time may change depending on the day.

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Request snorkeling equipment and/or lifeguard service if necessary. Entering the sea is at your own risk.

ACTIVITY ITINERARY*

The activities are ideally carried out starting at 5 am or 4 pm:

30 min
 | Departure from Playa Grande / Matapalo
30 min | Welcome and presentation on sea turtles
30 min | Theoretical training on drone use
60 min | Arrival at the beach and practical demonstration
20 min | Snack at the sunset viewpoint
30 min | Practical demonstration of drone with thermal camera
20 min | Final reflection and farewell
30 min | ​Return to Playa Grande / Matapalo

What to Bring?​

  • Cap or hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Water bottle
  • Closed-toe footwear
  • Notebook or device for taking notes
  • A strong desire to learn and connect with nature

RESERVATION

  • Reservations must be made up to 2 calendar days in advance to coordinate the ideal departure time according to the tide.
  • If you require lodging, additional food, transportation, snorkeling equipment, and lifeguard services, a minimum of 1 month's notice is requested (in high season, as much time as possible is ideal) to coordinate with third parties. We appreciate keeping all communication via email or WhatsApp chat with the representative.

IN SUPPORT WITH

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Bárbara Sellés Ríos
BIOLOGIST & DRONE PILOT
P2405-1025
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​(+506) 8378-9640 · [email protected]
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  • 🇨🇷 Español
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