Marine-Conservation Articles
Early morning on the 29th of January saw an excited fleet of 14 boats cross the starting line at Punta Fuego Yacht Club in Nasugbu, Batangas. They were not just embarking on a demanding 135-nautical-mile offshore race to Black Island in Busuanga but setting sail on a journey that aims to etch the Philippines onto the global map of premier sailing destinations. The BPI Busuanga Cup, jointly hosted by BPI Private Wealth and the Philippine Inter-Island Sailing Foundation (PHINSAF), boasted of more than just an adrenaline-inducing race; it united the sailing fraternity in their shared commitment towards marine conservation.
From private luxury to purposeful exploration, the transformation of the 26-metre Garcia-built private yacht into the Malizia Explorer, a futuristic climate research vessel, sets a new bar in yacht conversion. Celebrated at Yacht Club de Monaco after a comprehensive refit in Lorient, France, this aluminium yacht embraces its new calling with fervour. Now the flagbearer of Team Malizia, the intrepid sailing initiative, Malizia Explorer signifies a shift from thrilling ocean racing to groundbreaking climate research and observation.
Originally a private exploration yacht known as ‘Beniguet’, Malizia Explorer has successfully pivot while maintaining its sailing heritage. Now, it serves as a front-line platform for climate study, deploying advanced technologies that prioritize environmental sustainability. Its transition raised eyebrows in 2024 when the vessel was sold, marking the first steps towards its exciting new purpose.