News

Colorado Springs, COLORADO, July 12, 2017
Marine Research and Conservation non-profit, Fins Attached, is excited to announce the christening of the research expedition vessel, M/Y Sharkwater. The event will take place at the Bahia Mar Marina in Fort Lauderdale on July 27 between 4:00 – 7:00 PM, and is open to the public.

Fins Attached is pleased to name the vessel Sharkwater, to honor the late, Rob Stewart, whose film Sharkwater was viewed by over 125 million people worldwide, won over 50 interational awards and brought the issue of shark finning to light, inspiring countries around the world to ban shark finning.  Fins Attached is supporting Rob’s team to help finish his follow up feature film, Sharkwater Extinction.

Sharkwater is a 134 foot vessel that was originally built in Japan and used by Japanese fisheries, but now has been repurposed for the good of our oceans through the marine research and conservation mission of Fins Attached. Sharkwater will be a host to many different professions within the field. Scientists, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), marine science students, and documentary crews will have the opportunity to conduct fieldwork, and to achieve the objectives of Fins Attached. Scientists and film crews have already reached out to Fins Attached to be able to use Sharkwater over the next 12 months.

Gaining its own research expedition vessel will allow the nonprofit to expand its mission. Fins Attached works toward saving marine animal life, sharks in particular. “Shark populations are on the decline, and in some species, by over 95%. As Rob Stewart always said; Saving our oceans is saving us.” stated Alex Antoniou, Fins Attached founder. “Being able to support research, conversation, and education of the apex predators of the sea is what Sharkwater is all about,” Antoniou continued.

“The Sharkwater team is proud to be a part of the Sharkwater research vessel and we know Rob Stewart was thrilled to have been involved in this significant initiative. It’s imperative we support the oceans and all its creatures and this boat will provide an excellent resource for researchers, scientists, and conservation groups for years to come,” said Brian and Sandy Stewart. “A giant thank you to Alex…and his organization Fins Attached for making this happen. As Rob said, ‘Conservation is the preservation of human life on earth and that above all else is worth fighting for,’ concluded Brian.

Sharkwater will conduct over 25 expeditions a year with various groups and donors. Sponsorships are available. Individuals and companies can sponsor areas of the ship, such as the Dive Deck Operations, the Lounge and Dining area, and Individual Guest Cabins. All sponsors will be recognized during the christening event as well as onboard recognition throughout the year, and through the Fins Attached communication channels. Additionally, sponsorships are tax deductible. Contact info@finsattached to become a sponsor.

If the public would like to learn more about marine conservation, visit finsattached.org. For more information on Rob Stewart or If you would like to donate towards saving sharks, our oceans, and the continuation of Rob Stewarts work, visit  www.sharkwater.com. or www.therevolutionmovie.com.   If the media is interested in attending the christening in Florida, or for interviews or would like further information please, contact Fins Attached at, [email protected], or (719) 499-9117.

About Fins Attached
Fins Attached conducts research, promotes conservation and provides education for the protection of marine ecosystems.  Fins Attached believes in the preservation of our world’s precious resources and that through the protection of the ocean’s apex predators marine ecosystem balance can be maintained for the benefit of all living things on earth. Fins Attached is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Visit www.finsattached.org, or email [email protected]. www.studysharks.org.