FAQs Liguria Expeditions
- lnrdecarvalho
- Jun 10, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 18, 2024
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - SCS Expeditions
The SCS expeditions in the Ligurian Sea are fast approaching.
Here are the answers to your questions!
Sighting of cetaceans in the Ligurian Sea (photo taken with a GoPro camera submerged using a pole). © Team SCS (Charlotte Bellot)
A scientific sea expedition is a true adventure, but we understand there's much to think about before joining us!
We've compiled a list of the most important and common questions we anticipate you'll have.
Here are our answers!
What prior experience is required?
No prior experience is required. Our guides and skippers are there to guide and train you throughout the week. You can come from any professional background. The important thing is to be willing and eager to help an association with its work!
2. Do I need to help navigate on board?
No help is required, however, our skippers are always happy to receive assistance if eco-volunteers wish to provide it.
If you wish to learn more about sailing, you can benefit from quality explanations from our experienced skippers who are keen to share their knowledge with as many as possible.
3. What kind of sailboat is used for the expedition?
Our sailboats have 3 double cabins. They measure approximately 12-13 meters long. (Ask the skippers for more information...)
4. How many of us are on board?
For maximum comfort, we have limited the number of eco-volunteers on board for expeditions to 5. So, there are a maximum of 7 people on the sailboat: 1 guide, 1 skipper, and the 5 eco-volunteers.
5. What can I expect from the cabins?
The cabins will be shared by 2 people and have several storage spaces. However, it will not be a week providing the comfort of a luxury cruise.
The idea is to live with the essentials, like a real sailor.
6. Where exactly is the boat and how can I find it?
The boat will be at the port of Saint Mandrier. We never know the exact location, which changes each time. We always meet at the harbor office of Saint Mandrier where our team will join you to accompany you to the boat.
7. Are all meals included in the price?
Yes, absolutely no additional fees are required for meals.
8. I have specific dietary requirements. Can you accommodate them?
Of course! We provide you with a form where you can indicate any allergies or dietary specifications. Our guides take them into account for shopping and the menu.
(Questions and answers continue below!)
© Team SCS (Charlotte Bellot) - Swiss Cetacean Society
9. What does a typical day look like and will I have free time?
We all wake up and have breakfast together. You can start the day with a refreshing swim!
The departure time for scientific work may change each day depending on the requests and needs of the team. So, part of the day is devoted to work, which is organized according to the weather, the team... Research efforts can be long on some days if conditions are good, sometimes we encounter many animals, so the work extends.
Evenings are generally dedicated to free time (reading, swimming, snorkeling, coastal walks...) followed by an aperitif and a meal!
10. What is the probability of seeing animals?
We cannot promise anything because each year is different, but the likelihood of seeing animals is very good. We very frequently observe animals: fish, dolphins, seabirds, or even whales...
When observing correctly, we see a lot of things. We always remind our eco-volunteers that animals are wild and we do not do whale watching, so we sail randomly to record marine encounters, unexpected encounters are the most beautiful.
11. How often can we disembark from the boat?
It is always possible to disembark, our small dinghy allows a moment ashore whenever requested.
12. Is there email/Internet access on board?
Offshore, very little because the network is unstable, but at anchor (every evening), connection is possible. However, we do not have Wi-Fi on board, so you will need to have access to cellular data.
13. How should I prepare for the expedition? What should I bring in addition to usual clothes?
No preparation is necessary for the expeditions. However, if some people wish, they can ask the SCS for readings to learn about the species we work with.
Always have a windbreaker and warm, waterproof clothing. Normally, it's quite warm on board, so bring light clothing. In terms of equipment, fins, mask, and snorkel are always a good idea; we have 1 or 2 to lend but the sizes may not be correct.
14. Do I need insurance?
It is always good to have one :)
15. Is the crew able to provide medical care if needed?
Basic care, as well as first aid. The guides & the skipper can also return the boat to port in case of a problem. We ask eco-volunteers to inform us of any medical specificities.
16. What are the next steps? Are there forms or documents I need to fill out?
Please complete the form found at the end of the eco-volunteer file, which will be sent to you after payment.
More questions?
Check out our dedicated expeditions page below!
Ready for a unique experience?
Sign up below (spots are limited and filling up fast!)
And if you still can't find the information you need, we always enjoy getting emails!
© Team SCS - Swiss Cetacean Society
© Photo Credits : SCS - Swiss Cetacean Society
Lausanne, June 10 2024
Article writing : Leonor de Carvalho / SCS
