On the 1st of November 2018, the International SeaKeepers Society hosted its 20th anniversary Founders Dinner at a private Fort Lauderdale residence, where the conservation and research work of the DISCOVERY fleet over the past year was highlighted and SeaKeeper of the Year Michael J. Saylor was honoured.
Founders 2018 took place on the opening day of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) with a seated dinner and cocktails with entertainment. The Honorary Guest for the evening was The REV Ocean Project- Founded by Kjell Inge Røkke, and Captain Sandra Yaw of Below Deck Mediterranean acted as the Master of Ceremonies.
During the evening, Michael J. Saylor was honoured as SeaKeeper of the Year 2018 for his outstanding leadership and support for the programmes. The Nextgen SK Award was also presented to three finalists: Kristal Ambrose, Philip Bell of Northrop & Johnson and Marissa Miller for their continuing resolution as a younger generation of leadership involved in ocean conservation and increasing its awareness.
“It was an honour to be part of the 20th Anniversary Celhonourion of International Seakpeeprs and it was great to realize that there are so many people who deeply care and support ocean research, education, and conservation. It is important that the yachting industry, not only yacht owners and crews but also brokers and charter guests support “ the oceans” and focus on improving the state of our oceans and fight against plastic pollution, as well as implement various ways and measures to preserves marine wildlife”, said Martha Lukasik of CharterWorld.com.
The welcome video showcased to guests the work and mission of the International SeaKeepers Society and was dedicated in memoriam to Paul Allen, one of the founding members. The motor yachts ARCHIMEDES, ASEAN LADY, E CRUZ, JULIA, KEY OF SEA, LUZERNE, MARCATO, MYSTIQUE, HALO, SAM, SHREDDER and TIMELY SALE of the 2017-2018 DISCOVERY yacht fleet were recognised following their work covering educational programmes, instrument deployment and retrieval, and scientific expeditions.