The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas and Ambassadors of the Environment

February 21, 2013 (Santa Barbara, CA)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Media Contact:
Holly S. Lohuis
(805) 899-8899 x124


THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. THOMAS JOINS FORCES WITH
JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU’S AMBASSADORS OF THE ENVIRONMENT
Celebrated Environmental Program Uncovers St. Thomas’ Extraordinary Ecological Treasures

The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is pleased to unveil a new addition to its roster of acclaimed amenities with Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment. Heralded by an international environmental pioneer and preservationist, this innovative program emphasizes education and respect for the ecosystem, introducing guests to St. Thomas’ diverse environment through hands-on eco-adventures and activities. The partnership is the fourth program in The Ritz-Carlton portfolio and officially launches today with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the resort.

“It is with great pride that we are able to bring such a distinguished and cherished program to St. Thomas for both guests and locals to enjoy,” said Bernd Kuhlen, general manager for The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. “We are deeply committed to environmental excellence and through this unique and imaginative program crafted by a renowned environmental advocate, we have the opportunity to elevate our preservation efforts even further to help protect the islands’ exquisite natural resources for generations to come,” added Kuhlen.

Designed to inspire guests of all ages, this multi-faceted program is custom-created for St. Thomas’ diverse scenery and led by a team of Cousteau-trained naturalists who utilize its ecological resources to showcase the unique character and culture heritage of Great Bay. Biological wonders and cultural traditions become a natural classroom and living laboratory, creating memorable adventures to help instill a deep appreciation and respect for nature, as well as an understanding of how to live more environmentally responsibly back home. Snorkeling among coral reefs, exploring mangroves, kayaking around Great Bay and traditional arts and crafts are just a few of the hands-on activities available. A few of the signature activities include:

  • Mangrove & Dinosaur Wonderland
    Explore the mysterious world of mangroves. Discover how mangrove trees protect coastlines from erosion and how they support an amazing diversity of wildlife. Our most brave participants will get the opportunity to feed our resident population of living dinosaurs (green iguanas), getting to know them up close and personal (measured in inches).
  • Beautiful Blue Beaches
    Water is unique and beaches are wonderful. Where land meets sea – the perfect place to experience the wonders of water that make our planet this beautiful place in the universe. We are all water alive and it is water that creates our coastlines. Join us for an in depth exploration of the world of water and our beautiful blue beach.
  • Ocean Kayak and Snorkel Adventure
    Great Bay provides endless opportunities to learn about St. Thomas’ many ecosystems. Through a combo-kayak and snorkel excursion, we’ll explore the bay, including how weather, waves, geology of the mountains inland, the sea grass beds and the coastal plain converge to give us Great Bay with its rich biota and productivity.

“The Ambassadors of the Environment program is designed to engage and inspire guests with St. Thomas’ extraordinary yet fragile ecosystem, which we illustrate through activities and adventures that provide enduring value,” said Jean-Michel Cousteau. “By both demonstrating and exploring the natural wonders, heritage and native species that call St. Thomas home, we strive to not only create lasting memories, but impart a greater awareness and appreciation to the fundamental role we play in protecting and creating a sustainable future,” he added.

In addition to debuting Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas’ commitment to environmental excellence is also showcased through the hotel’s Blue Flag designation. One of the few beaches in the U.S. Virgin Islands that has garnered this prestigious award, the hotel implemented a range of stringent environmental and conservation practices throughout its daily operations, including water quality, continuously controlled environmental management systems, comprehensive safety provisions and environmental education.

About Ocean Futures Society
Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society was founded to explore the oceans, inspiring and educating people throughout the world to act responsibly for their protection and to celebrate their vital importance to the survival of all life on the planet. Ambassadors of the Environment represents the Society’s commitment to prepare the next generation for the responsibilities they will inherit to manage the planet’s biosphere. For more information, visit the website at www.oceanfutures.org.

About The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
Overlooking the turquoise waters of Great Bay, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is a secluded hideaway on a 30-acre beachfront estate with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. The resort offers a variety of luxurious amenities including lavishly designed presidential suites and guest rooms; four distinctive ocean-front dining choices; a full-service spa; a 53’ luxury catamaran, the Lady Lynsey; and for those visiting by sea, the resort offers moorings, allowing guests to access this ultimate lifestyle destination by sea or air.
For further information and reservations, please call (800) 241-3333, access the web site at www.ritzcarlton.com/stthomas or contact a travel professional. Connect with The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RitzCarltonStThomas.