We all like to get wavy from time to time, but the latest White Isle activity actually relates to the sea! La Bella Verde, Ibiza’s first and only solar-powered catamaran experience has created some monumental actions this year, further improving Ibiza’s image as a responsible travel destination.
Launched in 2014, the award-winning sustainable business has grown their solar-powered fleet to seven this year and have provided the island’s first 100% emission-free, Ocean Plastic Clean up boat named ‘iBi’. The new additions allow even more global visitors to enjoy a unique experience and relax in one of the worlds most desirable destinations, whilst minimising their carbon footprint.
A Green Boating Movement – Ocean Plastic Cleaning Boat ‘iBi”
Ibiza has a dedicated target to become free from single use plastic by 2023, and 2019 signifies a major step towards this action with the launch of one of the world’s first Solar Powered Ocean Clean Up Catamarans. The initiative will be carried out by iBi Foundation, includes a unique ocean clean up system that will filter and remove plastics from the ocean surrounding both Ibiza and the Balearic Islands. The robust structure is paired with La Bella Verde’s 100% emission free eco boat, which is powered entirely by the elements. The idea was initially raised by Ed en Joke from iBi Foundation after they found a struggling sea turtle caught in plastic and unable to swim in the open sea just off the Ibiza coastline. Volunteers are welcome to enjoy sailing for the day whilst clearing up the ocean through the new system.
Plastic, Pollution, Posidonia and Ibiza Sea Life
One of the main organisms that are affected by plastic and fuel based pollution is the Posidonia seagrass. Ibiza is one of the few locations where Posidonia oceanica (commonly known as Neptune grass or Mediterranean tapeweed) exists. This is a rare seagrass species that is endemic to the Mediterranean Sea. It forms large underwater meadows that play an important part for the local ecosystem encouraging its habitat. This is known to be one of the oldest and longest clonal colonies on Earth, dating as far back as 100,000 years. This has led to the land between Ses Salinas and Formentera being declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1999. Posidonia oceanica is a higher plant species that differs greatly from algae, with leaves, stalks and roots, as well as flowers and fruit. Its flowers indicate that this plant was once a land plant that has adapted itself to life underwater, where the flowers do not need to attract insects for pollination or pollen transportation. They are particularly known for supporting the balance of sediments by forming barrier reefs, maintaining the coastline and protecting beaches from erosion.
The Green Experience – Clean, Green & Silent
La Bella Verde provides the ultimate eco experience in Ibiza. Departing daily throughout the summer until mid-October from San Antonio, Santa Eularia and Las Salinas beach. The Las Salinas route, forms part of one of the islands protected natural park and home to a diverse ecosystem that stretches from South East Ibiza to Formentera. Hosting a number of vessels for small groups of five, perfect for families and couples right through to large groups of 30. Each full-day trip allows for a complete exploration of the surrounding torquoise waters and the white-sand coves of Formentera and its nearby isles. Staying true to the company’s ethos, gourmet lunches made with organic and locally sourced island produce, seasonal vegetables are served on board or on a secluded beach.
1% of every eco charter is donated to the recently launched La Bella Verde Foundation, designed to protect the biodiversity at Salinas Natural Park including protecting the Posidonia, a rare seagrass endemic to the mediterranean sea in Ibiza, as well as supporting local businesses to become plastic-free and minimise their environmental impact.
About La Bella Verde
Starting with just one catamaran in 2014, the pioneering eco-charter company was founded by friends Charlie Priestley, Alistair Glover-Main and Maarten Bernhart with a collective dream of offering a eco-boating experience.
Since the company’s inception, the team has transformed traditional boats into eco-friendly modes of transportation with the use of electric engines and advanced solar panels. Last Autumn saw the team launch into production of their own solar catamarans, the new boat was recently awarded the Palma Boat Show Award for most innovative design by Institut d’Innovació Empresarial de les Illes Balears IDI.
The name La Bella Verde, or “The Beautiful Green” is a signal of what the founders have sought to create – an intimate, low-impact experience with aims to make positive change in the wider boating industry internationally.
The team are also involved with local initiatives including school education days around ocean protection, working with sailing schools and organising beach clean ups.
Eco Sailing Ibiza
Prices for La Bella Verde start from 121 euros per person for a seven-hour solar catamaran excursion, including complimentary coconut water, juices and a selection of locally sourced beer, wine and champagne.
Sole hire of the largest boat carries up to 11 people with their smallest carrying 6 people. For larger groups, boats can be combined to sail side by side, accommodating up to 35 people.
This year La Bella Verde are extending their standard offering by providing a new High End package that also includes towels, licensed drone videography, organic locally sourced beer, wines and non alcoholic drinks, alongside boards and snorkelling equipment.
iBi Foundation Video:
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Media Enquiries:
The Everyday Agency
Sunita Dhaliwal
