Experience the thrill of a lifetime with an exclusive diving and shark research tour on board Arora Virgo liveaboard, where you will explore stunning underwater landscapes, encounter bucket-list marine life and get in on the action of shark conservation efforts.
Led by renowned shark scientist and National Geographic Explorer Gibbs Kuguru, this unique tour combines world-class diving with exciting educational opportunities and hands-on marine conservation experiences.
limited spaces available – book now via our online booking portal
Spectacular dive sites: Explore the classic ‘Best of Maldives’ itinerary through the central Atolls of the Maldives with your very own NatGeo guide. Approximately 30 dives.
National Geographic flair: Dive deeper into the world of marine science with engaging educational sessions led by Gibbs Kuguru.
Gibbs Kuguru is a passionate marine biologist and shark scientist known for his groundbreaking research and captivating storytelling. As a National Geographic contributor, Gibbs brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this tour, ensuring an educational and inspiring adventure for all participants.
Research: Gibbs’s research focuses on using cutting-edge scientific tools to better understand shark behaviour, ecology and evolutionary history. By combining genetics, telemetry and ecological data, Gibbs investigates how sharks interact with their environments and how human activities impact their populations. His work is crucial in unravelling the genetic diversity and movement patterns of shark species, helping to inform conservation strategies that protect these keystone predators. Gibbs’s research not only deepens our knowledge of sharks but also provides essential insights into preserving marine ecosystems under increasing environmental pressures.
View Gibbs’s National Geographic Explorer profile here
Walker Nambu is a distinguished shark scientist and former manager of the prestigious Bimini Shark Lab, widely regarded as one of the world’s leading shark research institutions. With his extensive hands-on experience in the field, Walker has made significant contributions to shark research and conservation, helping to advance our understanding of these important marine species.
During his time at Bimini Shark Lab, Walker honed his exceptional fieldwork skills, leading shark tagging projects that have been crucial in uncovering vital information about shark behaviour migration patterns and habitat use. His ability to work in challenging environments while gathering accurate and impactful data has earned him respect across the marine science community.
Walker’s masters thesis looked at the behavioural ecology of migrating blacktip sharks. Through aerial photogrammetry he sought out better understand how the animals interacted in large groups. Using code and different computer programs, he learned a lot in the lab, complimenting his his extensive field abilities.
In addition to his scientific expertise, Walker is a passionate advocate for conservation through sustainable fishing practices. He recognises the delicate balance between preserving marine ecosystems and supporting coastal communities that rely on fishing for their livelihoods. His work focuses on promoting sustainable fishing methods that protect shark populations and other marine species, ensuring that conservation efforts are both effective and equitable.
Walker Nambu’s leadership in shark science and his dedication to sustainable conservation make him a key figure in the ongoing efforts to protect the oceans and the species that call them home.
