September 24, 2024
A Conversation with Hélène Duran
General Manager of Te mana o te moana, our Moana Explorer Program Partner
For six years, Paul Gauguin Cruises has partnered with Te mana o te moana in developing our Moana Explorer Program to foster conservation awareness among the youngest guests sailing aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia.
French Polynesia’s natural abundance is at the heart of the islands’ culture, and preserving it for future generations is integral to local life. Paul Gauguin Cruises has called this breathtaking region home for over 25 years and shares this commitment to conservation—a commitment that is underscored through our six-year partnership with Te mana o te moana, a leading South Pacific marine conservation organization.
On many voyages, this partnership connects young cruisers ages six to 15 with the importance of the coral reefs, endemic species, and fragile ecosystems of this region through our complimentary Moana Explorer Program. Led by naturalists and conservationists on board and ashore, the program aims to help to foster care and conservation in future generations.
Hélène Duran, the general manager of Te mana o te moana, has seen firsthand how the connection with nature can illuminate a child’s understanding and appreciation of a place. She joins us on the blog to share some of the highlights and insights from her many years of sharing her passion for the islands and their environments.
On select summer and holiday voyages, Junior cruisers aboard The Gauguin are encouraged to take part in complimentary Moana Explorer Program activities focused on environmental conservation and protection.
What do you feel are the biggest “take aways” that kids have after participating in the Moana Explorer Program activities?
After participating in the Moana Explorer Program, the kids have a better understanding of the world surrounding them, especially when it comes to the environment. They are proud to be able to pass on their knowledge to others (their parents and even sometimes others during excursions).
Is there a particular shipboard activity that really engages them?
They generally take great interest in the issue of plastic pollution and its impact on the environment. They enjoy sharing their own experiences with pollution and presenting the eco-friendly habits they implement at home. This activity also allows them to better understand the dangerous impact of plastic pollution on the French Polynesian environment and marine life. After this activity, some kids are so enthusiastic that they start collecting waste on the beach and are proud to share with us their efforts.
Is there a particular shoreside activity that kids seem to like most?
The kids always enjoy snorkeling and beach activities. They love swimming in the lagoon and observing the marine biodiversity (fish, corals, mollusks, etc.). They are very curious and ask a lot of great questions.
A combination of naturalist-led island and/or beach excursions, science activities, crafts, games, and other adventures keep children both engaged and enthusiastic as they learn all about how to protect the world around them for the next generations to come.
What are some of the more memorable experiences you’ve had with the kids who participate in the Moana Explorer Program?
When the m/s Paul Gauguin visits the Marquesas Islands, a traditional sailing canoe competition is organized between guests. Most of the time, the children participating in the Moana Explorer Program team win the competition. Their excitement is contagious, and it makes us really proud of the kids and how they use knowledge they’ve gained during the traditional sailing activity.
What are some of the key considerations you and your team apply when crafting activities for the Moana Explorer Program?
Our top considerations while developing the programs are making sure activities are fun and engaging for the kids, and that they effectively educate and convey the importance of protecting the environment. Our naturalist guides are always focusing on finding the right balance of those two priorities. Also, our activities always include a practical component to ensure the kids can practice what they learn through hands-on experience.
General Manager Hélène Duran (fourth from left) poses alongside her hardworking team at Te mana o te moana.
How has the partnership with Paul Gauguin Cruises helped the goals and efforts of Te mana o te moana?
Our partnership with Paul Gauguin Cruises has allowed Te mana o te moana to communicate the importance of creating synergies between companies working in the tourism industry and local non-governmental organizations. It shows that it is possible to work hand in hand with the tourism industry with a common objective: to create an amazing experience for the customer while raising awareness on the importance of protecting the environment.
How does Te mana o te moana impact local communities and their understanding of these topics?
For the past 20 years, Te mana o te moana has been working closely with local communities to raise awareness on the protection of marine biodiversity. With over 140,000 kids welcomed to the education programs since 2004 and visits open to the public four times a week, Te mana o te moana focuses on educating the population to achieve a better understanding and protection of the Polynesian marine environment.
We invite you and your little explorers and nature protectors to join us aboard The Gauguin soon.
The Moana Explorer Program is offered on select voyages through 2026 as part of Paul Gauguin Cruises’ all-inclusive cruise fares.
Join us aboard The Gauguin for an all-inclusive, luxury voyage that celebrates the vibrant flavors, rich traditions, and stunning landscapes of French Polynesia. Savor exquisite dishes crafted by culinary masters, embark on thrilling adventures led by local experts, dive into crystal-clear waters brimming with marine life, and let the enchanting spirit of the islands fuel your soul. Book your voyage now and start exploring paradise with Paul Gauguin Cruises, French Polynesia’s destination expert.
To learn about Te mana o te moana, visit https://www.temanaotemoana.org/
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