The owners of the Mexican based liveaboard Solmar V have raised the bar for dive operators by agreeing to offset the boat’s carbon emissions as a standard practice. They are probably the first dive boat to do so, and will offset against the use of the boats diesel engine. In effect, this means that a portion of each passengers fees will be used to help reduce global warming. Many traveling divers now choose to offset the carbon effects of their airline travel, but until now there has been little or no opportunity of offset once “on the ground.”

Solmar V takes active steps to help preserve the environment. Divers know to stay off sensitive reefs and to protect threatened species, but we still have an impact on the planet and its oceans. Solmar V has a long tradition of commitment to the environment - involved in the formation of the protected bioshpere around the Socorro Islands in 1993, enforcing fishing regulations, chasing poachers, as well as encouraging divers to exhibit good practices. In 2011 Solmar V will raise the bar on that commitment by partnering with Carbonfund.org to establish carbon offsets for the boat’s diesel emissions. A part of revenues from every trip in 2011 will be earmarked for this program to help fight global warming - Solmar V’s contribution in making the transition to a clean energy future possible.

Jose Luis Sanchez, the boat’s administrator said:

“When thinking about our business’ environmental impact we follow simple principles: avoid-reduce-offset. Partnering with Carbonfund.org provides a great way to offset our impact. We want to encourage everyone to be good stewards of the oceans. If other operators are interested in learning how to do this, my staff would be happy to walk them through the process.”

In recognition of this move and to encourage divers who support this kind of action, Solmar V is offering the “Green Boat” special for all January 2011 trips to Socorro Islands. The Socorro Islands offer some truly pristine diving with exceptionally large animals: 18+ foot mantas are common as well as numerous shark species, dolphins and even whales!

For more information, please contact the boat.