Who are MARECO?

The oceans are in peril – from climate change and overfishing to acidification and pollution – and need our help. MARECO was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic to try and address some of the issues threatening marine life. More specifically, the issues affecting charismatic megafauna species like sharks and rays. This is primarily because they can act as umbrella species for the marine environment as a whole. For example, raising awareness about sharks in a specific place can bring about positive change for other species and habitats within that ecosystem.

As an NGO, MARECO works through collaboration to achieve their goals. They work with stakeholders across the board, from industry to communities, governments, other NGOs, the general public and academia. Only by working together can we turn the tide for our oceans, and we all have a role to play.

What do MARECO do?

MARECO are currently involved in several local, regional, and global projects with the species they work with. Together with partners in 18 countries across 4 continents, they are trying to understand the abundance, connectivity, and persistent threats to whale sharks. They are also working with global partners to understand the diversity and connectivity of spotted eagle rays.

In the UK, MARECO have a collaborative project with swim-with blue shark operators. Together, they are trying to understand and improve operations to maximise the experience, whilst minimising impacts on the blue sharks. They also supervise postgraduate students to maximise impact and conservation outputs from a traditionally research-only focused approach.

Finally, there is constant work to support conservation policy and management of the candidate species internationally.

MARECO x Master Liveaboards

MARECO has previously teamed up with Master Liveaboards for several unique, conservation and research-focused trips. Having completed a cruise to Triton Bay and the Spice Islands in March 2023, MARECO then moved on to a Raja Ampat cruise in January of 2024, as well as a change of destination and vessel with a 6 night cruise to the Tubbataha National Park in May 2025. There are more trips planned for the future, with the next one being a cruise across the Banda Sea in October 2026. 

What’s Special about the Banda Sea?

The Banda Sea is a hidden gem of the Indonesian archipelago that stretches from Nusa Tenggara in the south to Raja Ampat in the north, dotted with remote islands such as Banda Neira, Manuk, Nil Desperandum, and Serua. This region offers:

• Pristine reefs with vibrant coral gardens
• Rich pelagic life, including bumphead parrotfish, sharks, and huge schools of fish
• Dramatic topography with dramatic walls, pinnacles, and seamounts
• Remote dive sites only accessible by liveaboard — meaning uncrowded and wild

The water temperatures are tropical, visibility is often excellent, and the biodiversity rivals that of Raja Ampat — making the Banda Sea a must-visit for adventurous divers.

What Makes the MARCEO Expedition Special?

This isn’t just another liveaboard trip — it’s part of a conservation-focused expedition in partnership with MARECO, blending cutting-edge science with exploration. The itinerary offers environmentally conscious divers the chance to connect with those working on the marine conservation frontlines whilst exploring the wonders of our oceans. 

On the MARCEO-hosted dates in October 2026, guests will have the unique opportunity to:

• Learn from marine scientists about ongoing research in the region
• Gain insights into conservation efforts that support healthy ocean habitats
• Dive with like-minded adventurers passionate about marine protection

MARECO’s founder and director, Dr. Gonzalo Araujo, will be onboard to share his experience and expertise working with marine megafauna. Gonzo is a marine scientist and conservationist and has worked in many countries. He completed his PhD on whale sharks, so you’ll be sure of clear insight into their behaviour, research, and conservation.

 

So now you know, why not come diving in Indonesia with MARECO? Contact MARECO directly or get in touch with our booking team.