Sea Turtle Off The Coast Of Nevis
Imagine taking a luxurious vacation in the Caribbean where you not only enjoy beautiful beaches, lush tropical scenery, and top-tier accommodations, but also help save endangered sea turtles. Thanks to a partnership between Four Seasons Resort Nevis, the Sea Turtle Conservancy, and the Nevis Turtle Group, guests have the chance to participate in hands-on conservation efforts every summer.
Each year, as Nevis’ sandy shores warm under the summer sun, the island becomes a key nesting ground for endangered sea turtles. Drawn by instinct, these incredible animals return to the beach where they were born to lay their eggs and continue their ancient life cycle.
On the beaches of Nevis, you will find three main species nesting: hawksbill turtles, leatherback turtles, and green turtles. After maturing over 25 years or more, these turtles travel hundreds of miles to return home and lay up to 200 eggs under the moonlight. Since only about 1 in every 1,000 to 10,000 hatchlings survive to adulthood, conservation efforts are vital for their survival.
Recognizing the need to protect these creatures, Four Seasons Resort Nevis partnered with the Sea Turtle Conservancy — the world’s oldest sea turtle research organization — over sixteen years ago. Together, they raise awareness about the challenges sea turtles face and give guests the chance to make a difference.
The resort’s annual Sea Turtle Conservation Program includes several activities. It kicks off with a sea turtle reception led by David Godfrey, executive director of the Sea Turtle Conservancy. Guests learn about conservation efforts and how to interact responsibly with sea turtles. Following the reception, there are two nightly beach walks where guests patrol local beaches with conservationists to spot nesting turtles. Teams take care not to disturb the turtles and wait patiently as the turtles lay and bury their eggs.
Guests can also take part in morning sea turtle release events. Newly “adopted” turtles are fitted with satellite trackers, and guests can follow their journeys online through the Tour de Turtles website. Watching a sea turtle return to the ocean creates a powerful sense of hope and connection to nature.
Children ages 3 to 13 can participate in the popular Sea Turtle Kids Camp, where they learn about turtles through fun, educational activities alongside local children.
Even after the guest activities end, the Nevis Turtle Group, led by Lemmy Pemberton, continues monitoring the beaches. They cover turtle tracks to protect nests from poachers, ensuring the conservation mission lives on.
The partnership between Four Seasons Resort Nevis and the Sea Turtle Conservancy shows how the travel industry can support endangered wildlife. Guests leave with more than memories — they take home a deeper appreciation for the bond between humans and nature.