Highlights from the Seal Greece National Campaign in Greece
This summer, two eco-sailing boats — Bonnie R and Pelago — have been charting a unique course across the Ionian and Aegean seas, carrying with them a vital message: the protection of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), one of the world’s most endangered marine mammals.
Launched on 7 July from Volos, in partnership with Aegean Cargo Sailing, the Seal Greece National Information Campaign (part of a wider initiative developed and co-led by NECCA and MSA) has covered hundreds of nautical miles, making port calls at marinas and harbors to meet with local communities, travelers, sailors, and authorities. With every stop, the campaign shares knowledge, raises awareness, and invites people to imagine a more conscious coexistence with marine life.
Adding a digital twist, the campaign’s mascot — Mona, the augmented reality monk seal — has been “swimming” ashore throughout the journey, offering tips and interactive experiences for locals and visitors alike.
The Ionian Route: Community, Creativity, and Conservation
Bonnie R with captain John Perham and Ambassador Nora Klasen, completed a 23-day voyage through the Ionian Sea, visiting six islands and Preveza. Everywhere it docked, it left ripples of awareness and inspiration. Some of the standout moments included:
Corfu – A warm send-off from Gouvia Marina, where the Municipality of North Corfu, local officials, and environmental representatives joined forces to launch the campaign.
Lefkada – Together with iSea, Seal Greece hosted an event at Lefkada Marina that drew locals, tourists, and sailors. The support of D-Marin played a key role in making the event a success.
Fiskardo, Kefalonia – A vibrant evening event with ngo Kosamare, featuring an outdoor art exhibition, short films like Symvíosi, educational activities for children, and plenty of music and hospitality.
Ithaca – Αt this second joint event with iSea, more than 600 people learned about the monk seal in a single day, while over 50 children joined creative drawing sessions.
Zakynthos – The Ionian journey came to a close at Zakynthos port, where the crew met with Laurent Sourbes of NECCA, sealing the campaign’s Ionian chapter with strong local commitment to marine protection.
The Aegean Route: Music, Meetings, and Meltemia
Meanwhile, Pelago with captain Loucas Gourtsoyannis and Ambassadors Arran Moran and Suzanne Raqbi, sailed the Aegean, braving August’s strong meltemi winds, anchoring at over 19 harbors, and carrying forward the campaign’s message of marine protection. Highlights of the voyage include:
Alonissos – A meaningful encounter with the team of MOm, the non-profit organization dedicated to monk seal protection.
Chios (Volissos) – A celebratory welcome as part of the 9th Chios Music Festival, blending sea-inspired songs, cultural creativity, and Greece’s proud maritime tradition. The evening featured Giorgos Voreas-Melas and the traditional ensemble Astrageri.
Psara – A warm visit from the island’s Mayor, Mr. Konstantinos Vratsanos, underscoring the importance of local engagement.
Mykonos – Teaming up with Mykonos Outdoors and Mykonos Kayak, the crew explored the island’s natural side, from sailing and kayaking in Agios Sostis to sharing conservation stories — a reminder that awareness can inspire change.
The twin voyages of Seal Greece in collaboration with Aegean Cargo Sailing traced nearly 1,000 nautical miles across the Ionian and Aegean Seas — reaching 26 islands and coastal towns through 29 port stops!
The Mediterranean monk seal has found refuge in Greek waters. Let’s help it also find a future!
