Safeguarding Ocean Giants

A sail-powered scientific expedition to study humpback whales in TCI waters.

Mission Snapshot

  • Location: Turks & Caicos Islands

  • Duration: 4 weeks

  • Focus Species: Humpback whales

  • Output: Data-collection, scientific paper & short film

In Feb 2026, Ocean Roamer will partner with the TCI Whale Project to conduct a comprehensive survey of humpback whale populations in its waters.

A collaborative expedition with the Turks & Caicos Whale Project to conduct a comprehensive, multi-method survey of humpback whales during peak season in TCI waters (Feb–March 2026). 

Two whales breaching the ocean surface with one tail and one head visible, against a cloudy sky.

Why the Turks & Caicos?

A critical migratory corridor for the North Atlantic humpback population. 

Evidence suggests the Grand Turk Bank is an important nursery and breeding ground, yet it remains poorly studied. 

New research by the TCIWP shows mothers with calves, mature males, and escort groups routinely use these waters. 

Increasing unregulated in-water tourism poses growing risks of disturbance and harassment. 

Baseline science is urgently needed to guide marine spatial planning, whale-watching regulations, and protective measures.

What we will do

Coinciding with the peak period of whale activity in the area, we will collect the following data:

A humpback whale's tail rising above the water surface in the ocean.

Photo-ID & Drone Photogrammetry

A person in a white long-sleeve shirt and striped shorts is holding a fish finder device, with the ocean in the background.

Acoustic Monitoring

Two people riding a blue jet ski on the water, with a second jet ski visible in the background; they are wearing life jackets and holding onto the handles as they ride through the water.

Threats Assessment

Close-up of a whale's head with visible baleen plates against a blue ocean background.

Behaviour and Habitat-Use Mapping

A close-up of a whale shark swimming underwater, showing its head and part of its body with distinctive patterns.

Why this mission matters

The data from this mission will help:

  • Establish baseline knowledge for an under-studied region.

  • Inform future regulations for in-water interactions and whale tourism.

  • Support protection of nursery habitats vital for North Atlantic humpbacks.

  • Strengthen local capacity through science communication and public outreach.

  • Contribute to a long-term, multi-season migration project being led by TCIWP extending from the Caribbean to the North Atlantic.

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