A standout moment was Shell Week, a partnership between Royal Caribbean Group and World Wildlife Fund (WWF), which combined education with fun to shine a spotlight on iconic sea turtles. To get people engaged, Royal Caribbean Group held an Instagram bracket-style tournament in collaboration with WWF, where users voted for their favorite sea turtle, Harry the Hawksbill, Luca the Loggerhead, Kali the Kemp’s Ridley, Gunner the Green Sea Turtle, Riley and Ollie, the Olive Ridleys; Atlas the Leatherback, and Harper the Flatback. Each turtle, voiced by Royal Caribbean Group employees, turned the competition into a creative and engaging way to raise awareness for conservation efforts.  

Instagram followers were encouraged to enter a sweepstakes giveaway, where the winner would join a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) scientist to spend a day learning about sea turtle conservation efforts in South Florida. Visitors to shellweek.com were able to make donations to support WWF’s critical ocean conservation work around the world, and vital sea turtle conservation projects. 

In addition to online activities, the Group’s crew and guests participated in hands-on environmental efforts. Beach and shoreline cleanups at locations like Crandon Park Nature Center in Key Biscayne, Florida, removing a total of three truckloads of palm fronds, helped restore local ecosystems while underscoring the powerful role individuals can play in preserving ocean environments. 

The Group’s social media presence throughout the week tied it all together. Daily videos, interactive polls, and updates on conservation progress fostered a global conversation about the importance of protecting marine life. Followers were encouraged to take action—whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. 

For those cruising during World Oceans Day and throughout the month of June, the Group offered innovative digital experiences. Guests can join the Ocean Explorers Club via the Royal Caribbean app to earn digital badges by participating in engaging, educational activities about marine ecosystems and conservation. Looking to earn a digital badge? It’s not too late! Check out the Royal Caribbean or Celebrity Cruises app for a chance to become an Ocean Explorer! 

By blending education, engagement, and community service, Royal Caribbean Group demonstrated a strong commitment to environmental stewardship during World Oceans Day and Shell Week. These efforts not only showcased the Group’s marine conservation efforts but also made learning about these efforts fun for all ages and inspired meaningful participation from a global audience.