Posidonia Connect: zero-emission catamaran in Naples and Ischia

From 5 to 28 May 2026 the Posidonia Connect project arrives in Italy aboard the zero-emission catamaran Ganany. The mission combines field research, public outreach and international cooperation to monitor Posidonia oceanica meadows, a key habitat for Mediterranean biodiversity and coastal protection.

Main program and stops

• Mission period: 5 May 2026 - 28 May 2026.
• Ischia: scheduled stop on Monday 18 May 2026 with outreach activities and school meetings.
• Naples (Molo San Vincenzo): scheduled stop on Friday 22 May 2026, featuring an institutional meeting open to the public and opportunities to visit the catamaran.

Scientific goals and nature value

The mission aims to strengthen monitoring and protection of Posidonia meadows using standardized sampling techniques and ecosystem-based indicators. One key tool is the Ebqi (Ecosystem-based Quality Index), designed to assess not only the seagrass but the whole associated ecosystem (invertebrates, fish, seabirds and ecological interactions).

Researchers will adapt these methods to varied Mediterranean conditions and work towards common standards to support management of marine protected areas.

Participants and study areas

• Race for Water Foundation (catamaran Ganany)
• Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn
• GIS Posidonie and University of Sassari
• Local partners: Naples Sea League, Naval Logistics Command, Municipality of Ischia and other territorial stakeholders

How to attend and what to expect

Stops include school sessions, stakeholder briefings and public meetings. The Naples event includes a public meeting and the chance to board the catamaran to learn about zero-emission technologies and monitoring protocols. For practical details and participation, contact local organizers or follow the project updates.

Why this matters for nature

Posidonia oceanica plays a central role in carbon sequestration, coastal erosion protection and marine biodiversity. This mission links science and outreach to develop more effective conservation and management tools across the Mediterranean.