Youth from Paquera Join the Coral Garden Project at Isla Tortuga

Just off the coast of Isla Tortuga, beneath the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Nicoya, lies a living classroom — the Coral Garden (“Jardín de Corales”), an environmental restoration project dedicated to reviving the coral reefs of the region.

On 27 November 2025, an important step was taken for Paquera’s youth. Under a new agreement between the Colegio Técnico Profesional de Paquera (CTP), the Asociación de Juventudes de Paquera (ADEJ) and Bay Island Cruises the first group of students—together with teachers, coordinators and ADEJ representatives—visited the Isla Tortuga Coral Garden for a hands-on workshop in marine conservation.

What Is the Isla Tortuga Coral Garden?

The Coral Garden is a multi-institutional restoration project led by UNED, INA, Bay Island Cruises, PROLAB, and local community partners. Using the “coral gardening” method, the project rehabilitates reefs around Isla Tortuga by growing and transplanting coral fragments in controlled nursery structures.

To date, results have been remarkable: - 2,000+ corals planted - 43 nursery structures installed - Over 90% survival rate - Corals grow up to four times faster in nurseries than in natural conditions

Why Coral Gardens Are Important?

Nursery structures give young corals ideal light, water flow, and protection, allowing them to grow stronger and faster. Once mature, they are transplanted onto damaged reefs to help rebuild ecosystems, increase biodiversity, and support sustainable tourism and coastal protection.

Paquera’s Youth Take Part

That is why the Asociación de Desarrollo Especifica para las Juventudes de Paquera, through its VisitPaquera.com – Sustainable Tourism Destination project, has joined this inspiring effort. In collaboration with UNED - Universidad Estatal a Distancia, INA - Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje, and Bay Island Cruises, we have signed an agreement that allows students from the Colegio Técnico Profesional de Paquera to participate directly in the Coral Garden project.

During these educational field days, the students will travel to Isla Tortuga, where they will learn from marine biologists, observe how coral fragments are cared for, and take part in hands-on activities such as cleaning or measuring the growing corals. These experiences connect classroom knowledge with real environmental action, offering youth a chance to see firsthand how sustainable tourism and conservation go hand in hand.

A New Generation of Ocean Stewards

As the Coral Garden enters its second year, involving Paquera’s youth brings new energy and purpose. These workshops not only contribute to reef recovery but also inspire young people to understand, value, and protect the coral reefs that make our region unique.

We are proud to see the next generation becoming active guardians of our marine ecosystems—and excited for the many workshops to come.

Pictures courtesy of Bay Island Cruises and ADEJ.