Sesel Sa! January - March 2015 Jan - March 2015 | Page 66

expedition. Sadly, soon after this trip the piracy
activities in the Western Indian Ocean increased
and prevented many cruise and live-aboard boats
from visiting the Aldabra group. Now that risk has
decreased and it is exciting to once again return to this
magical atoll. A lot of preparation and research has
gone into the security and logistics of this trip to make
sure the guests have the safest and most fulfilling
experience. I enjoy visiting Aldabra on these ships as
they try to reduce their impact on the atoll wherever
possible, so the atoll can be enjoyed by future guests.
Of course it is great to have the SIF rangers on hand to
show the atoll to these guests, as they have a wealth
of knowledge and experience to share.
Why is Aldabra an important tourist destination?
These visits to Aldabra have an essential part to play
in Seychelles in terms of tourism and the economy.
The income generated from these visits supports SIF
and their management of the atoll which will protect
and conserve it for future visitors. But Aldabra is also
the ‘jewel in Seychelles’ crown’ as they say, and it is
wonderful to be able to share this place with people
from around the world. There is such a rich history
on Aldabra, as well as its wildlife, and this also makes
the island special. When I arrived on Aldabra for the

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SESEL SA! | JAN - MAR 2015 ISSUE NO. 6

first time in 1999 some of the staff, such as Ton Ben,
had spent 40 years on Aldabra. They were the ones
who really showed me what Aldabra was and I learned
many things from them.
What do you see as the future for Aldabra?
I think the direction that SIF is moving in will secure
the future of Aldabra. With long term and innovative
research programmes and management, such as the
renewable energy system, Aldabra has a bright future.
I also think the Aldabra House project is very exciting
and will bring the experience of Aldabra to the people
of Seychelles, as well as our international visitors. To
have somewhere where all the incredible information
about Aldabra can be shared and exchanged will be
invaluable. I hope to keep returning to Aldabra to
show this wonderful place to others, and to share my
experience and knowledge with them.