Public fund for Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust’s Silurian makes waves
After 20 years surveying Scotland’s seas, Silurian, the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust’s (HWDT) research vessel, requires a refit.
HWDT was founded in 1994 and is responsible for the vast majority of knowledge of cetaceans in the Hebrides.
Since purchasing Silurian in 2002, the team’s work was made much easier, and their research efforts have thrived.
Now the converted yacht’s vital systems need an upgrade and repairs, to maintain the charities research and conservation efforts.
This includes upgrades to the ship’s hull and fuel tanks.
The marine conservation charity ran a fundraiser through the Big Give to aid in the work, with an aim of reaching £10,000.
Thanks to the generous donations of the public, HWDT managed to surpass its funding goals with two days to spare.
HWDT Communications Manager Morven Summers said: “we’re so grateful to Big Give and all our supporters and followers.
“This work is vital for sustaining Silurian’s systems, she’s been surveying the seas for 20 years, that’s a long time.
“It’s not just for that either though, the copper coating on the hull will make it more eco-friendly.”
Silurian has been the home of over 1,000 volunteers over the past two decades.
They joined as the charity carried out countless surveys and studies of Scotland’s aquatic animals.
The vessel is currently home to the UK’s biggest database of marine life, data which is vital to the charities efforts to conserve the biodiversity of Scotland’s waters.
Records are taken of at-risk species like minke whales, Risso’s dolphins and basking sharks.
Silurian: a ship with a rich past
Silurian has an interesting history; years ago she was used to smuggle cocaine along the US coastline before being apprehended.
She was later used for filming on BBC’s Blue Planet series and the Discovery Channel, before landing in HWDT’s hands.
Silurian was equipped to meet the needs of the charity, with computer systems for logging data and underwater microphones called ‘hydrophones’ for detecting cetacean vocalisations.
Everyone who donates to the campaign will be entered into a prize draw for a free ride for two on Silurian from Ullapool to the charities home of Tobermory in June.
The campaign ends at noon on Thursday 27 April.
