Coral Out-Planting Excursion in the Bahamas

With April World Ocean Month and Earth Day on April 22, Atlantis Paradise Island and Perry Institute for Marine Science invite guests at Atlantis to take part in a coral out-planting trip at Rose Island Reef on Earth Day.

Atlantis’ 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, is part of Reef Rescue Network and works to fight against climate change by planting corals in a scientifically sound way. With two coral nurseries, Reef Rescue Network’s ABPF and PIMS scientists have been growing finger coral and staghorn coral grown from clippings. The coral fragments are now ready to be introduced to the larger reefs in the Bahamas.

The excursion begins at Atlantis Marina before heading to Rose Island Reef to collect staghorn coral from the nursery, sponsored by ABPF and maintained by Atlantis. The coral is then collected by PIMS staff with the assistance of guest divers. Afterwards, the group moves to the planting plot where guests use epoxy putty to secure coral fragments to the existing coral, where it will continue to grow and help increase the speed of the reef’s growth.

In addition to the excursion, guests can take part in the Atlantis Marine Life Camping Adventure, a one-night experience with behind-the-scenes tours of The Royal Towers Fish Hospital and Rehab Center. Guests also get a closer look at ABPF’s rehabilitation work. Also included in the experience is a twilight ruins snorkel trip followed by a night spent in a climate-controlled canvas beachside tent along the shores of Atlantis’ Dolphin Cay habitat.