Putting something back into the natural environment we all make our livings from — either directly or indirectly — is the right thing to do, and we all know it! The real question is, how many of us actually do it?

Life gets busy — we get it. Work, family, day-to-day chaos. Even when you want to do something good for the ocean, finding the time isn’t always easy. But here’s the good news: you can support marine conservation in the Balearic Sea without it eating into your schedule.

Asociación Ondine has grown into one of Mallorca’s most active and respected marine conservation organisations, and our momentum hasn’t slowed down. Quite the opposite — the team has grown, our impact has deepened, and we’re more driven than ever.

The stingray project that started a movement

Our first major initiative — the Mallorca Stingray Survey — continues to create waves. It didn’t just produce incredible data and insights, it also captured the imagination of locals and tourists alike. We still receive messages, photos, and calls from excited people around the islands who spot stingrays and want to be part of it. This project sparked public awareness that still grows today.

Let’s not forget the €36,000 that this project raised — a massive kickstart for conservation here in the Balearics, thanks to a generous donation from Stefan and Irina Hearst. You helped us build the foundation, and we’re forever grateful.

We’ve since expanded the stingray work with tagging and tracking programs, helping us better understand movement patterns, habitats, and how to protect these amazing creatures.

The future? ambitious. achievable. already in motion.

You can check out more about what’s next on our website or in our recent publications. Our upcoming projects are ambitious but 100% doable. And most importantly, they’re designed to benefit you — the boat owners, fishermen, divers, snorkelers, crew members, and anyone lucky enough to spend time on or in the sea around the Balearic Islands.

Each year, we also run a membership drive and promote our Wish List — both vital ways you can support marine research and conservation without needing to give up your weekends. We’ve designed our memberships to be as valuable and rewarding as possible, with real benefits, gear, and services included — it’s not just a donation. And for nautical businesses, there’s an added bonus: supporting a clean, green organisation is great for your public image.

Even in Spain — where conservation hasn’t always been front and centre — many businesses deal with international clients who care about sustainability. Showing that your business supports marine protection boosts your credibility and aligns with the global shift toward conscious practice.

Your voice matters

When you become a member or sponsor, you’re not just supporting the projects — you also get a say. If there are local issues you care about, you can raise them with our team. We’re always open to collaboration and ideas — because real conservation happens when communities get involved.

We’re building bridges between people, businesses, and nature — and the results speak for themselves. Better ecosystems, stronger connections, and a deeper understanding of the sea we all rely on.

Who’s already on board?

We’re proud to have long-time gold members like Planet Space, who kindly store equipment and donated items for us, and Deckers Uniforms, who provide our awesome new T-shirts. Marexi Marine Technologies is backing us too. The support keeps rolling in.

What’s on the wish list?

The Wish List is simple: it’s a way for the yachting industry to donate equipment and materials that would otherwise be thrown away — and give them new life in our projects. From wetsuits to dive gear to boat parts, we can use it all. We’ve even got our eye on something big: an ocean-going research vessel.

Yep, we’re dreaming big — think tracking basking sharks or even the holy grail: the first team in the world to find and tag a Great White Shark in the Mediterranean. Sound wild? Maybe. But we believe it’s absolutely possible. Why? Because we’ve got the right people, in the right place, with the right mindset.

Meet the core team

We’re an international crew of passionate people with one shared goal: to protect what we love.

• Gabriel Morey (Spain) – Vice President

• Silke Bommersheim (Germany) – Environmental Manager

• Abi Tottman (UK) – Environmental Manager

• Sam Childs (UK) – Project Coordinator

• Alma Van Niekerk (New Zealand) – Marine Conservation Advisor

• Brad Robertson (Australia) – President

• Nick Stael von Holstein (Sweden) – PR & Promotions

• Bea Esparza (Spain) – Accounts & Kids Programs

• Jonathan Fox Bassett (UK) – Photographer/Videographer

• David Diley (UK) – Underwater Photographer

And let’s not forget the incredible network of volunteers across the islands who help drive our mission forward.

The sea gives so much — let’s give back

The Balearics are home to some of the healthiest marine ecosystems in the Med, thanks to geography, topography, and a bit of luck. But that doesn’t mean we’re immune to threats. We’ve still got plenty of challenges — and just as many solutions.

We’re ready. We’ve got the people, the experience, and the passion. All we need is you.

So before you toss that spare gear during refit season, or before you say “we’ll help next year”, ask yourself:

Can your business, your yacht, or you personally afford not to support marine conservation in the place we all love?

If the answer is yes — then reach out. Get involved. Join us. Because it’s not just the right thing to do — it’s one of the most gratifying things you can do.

Together, we can show Spain — and the world — that the people of the Balearics care deeply about the sea that surrounds us.