Mission For Mangroves
Mission For Mangroves is an eco‑tourism experience that invites visitors to play an active role in restoring mangrove ecosystems on Grand Bahama Island. Your participation helps rebuild natural coastal buffers that sustain marine life, protect shorelines, and support climate resilience. The program is delivered in partnership with Waterkeepers Bahamas, the Bahamas Protected Areas Fund, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, and others.
Tours are hosted by local Stewards of the Environment (SOTEs)—certified guides who interpret local science, coastal communities’ recovery post‑Hurricane Dorian, and mangrove ecology in an engaging way.
Tour Logistics
- Duration: The Mission For Mangroves farm tour is roughly 30 minutes while the full city tour is about 3 hours.
- Cost & Group Size: $65 USD per person, group size is limited to six people per tour.
- Includes:
- Round‑trip pickup from your hotel or cruise port.
- A visit to the Waterkeepers Bahamas Mangrove Farm to select and plant your own propagule/seedling.
- Commentary and storytelling by your SOTE guide on mangrove ecology, their protective role, and coastal ecosystems.
- Additional Sites: There is also a possibility to add other sites, which would come at an additional cost and can be arranged through your SOTE.
- How to Book: Choose a SOTE guide listed on the official site (Waterkeepers Bahamas or Bahamas Protected Areas Fund) and contact them directly to reserve your tour.
- Hours of Operation: Tours run daily between 9 :00am and 3:00pm
- Transport: Complimentary pickup/drop‑off at most local hotels and cruise terminals; confirm with your guide during booking.
Sites Visited
- Waterkeepers Bahamas Mangrove Farm – where you’ll plant your own mangrove propagule and learn hands-on about restoration practices.
- Lucayan National Park – optional stop to walk among the mature mangrove canopy.
- Dover Sound – drive‑by or short visit to an area heavily affected by Hurricane Dorian for context on ecosystem recovery.
You’ll travel the coastal terrain of Grand Bahama, with informative narration by your SOTE about ecology, community resilience, and conservation efforts.
Visitor Information
- Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible—terrain includes unpaved paths at the farm and some walking required. Participants should have moderate physical fitness.
- Cancellation: Cancellations must be made by 4:00pm the day before your tour. Make changes or cancellations directly with your SOTE.
- What to Bring: Sun protection (sunglasses, hat, reef-safe sunscreen), closed‑toe or water shoes, light snack and water bottle, and a camera.
- Payment: Tours can only be paid for in cash, bring enough with you to cover the tour cost and tip.
Mission For Mangroves offers visitors a hands-on way to help the Bahamas recover its vital mangrove ecosystems while learning from local guides and connecting with Bahamian communities. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or small group, this eco-tour is a rewarding addition to any Grand Bahama itinerary.