As we launch into a new year, I am proud to present the January – February edition of The Islander, an issue in which we have intentionally expanded our focus on marine conservation and research. This is more than a theme — it is a responsibility. As an industry powered by the oceans and privileged to spend our lives upon them, we cannot afford to underestimate the role yachting can and must play in safeguarding their future.

It seems that in general, the potential of the yachting community to contribute to marine science has been overlooked. No other craft of comparable manoeuvrability and capability ventures as far and as often into remote ocean regions as yachts do. Every year, yacht crew, owners, and charter guests travel to areas that countless marine biologists, researchers and conservationists dream of accessing. Yet we reach them almost routinely, and usually without recognising the extraordinary opportunity this represents.

In this issue, we shine a light on that opportunity. We highlight the inspiring work of organisations already bridging the gap between luxury yachting and scientific research. We explore practical ways in which crew, owners and guests can contribute — even with small, simple actions that collectively create meaningful impact. From data collection to micro-missions, from supporting research projects to adopting eco-conscious on board practices, yachting has the power to become a driving force for ocean knowledge and preservation.

Raising awareness around this will form a strong part of our mission as a media channel. Many yacht crew are passionate about the seas, but passion only becomes progress when paired with understanding and action. That is why we have dedicated a number of pages to stories that educate, inspire and encourage. Our hope is that these insights spark conversations on board, influence decisions, and remind every reader that yachting’s connection to the marine world is not merely recreational—it is custodial.

As the year unfolds, The Islander will continue to champion this intersection between exploration and conservation. If we can help shift perspectives — if we can inspire even a handful of yachts to collaborate with researchers, adjust their routines and perhaps adapt their charter offer by adding a research programme — the ripple effect will be far greater than we imagine.

Thank you for joining us in steering the industry toward a future where yachting is not only a celebration of the ocean, but also a guardian of it.