IN a unified celebration of World Oceans Day, Sandals Negril and Beaches Negril treated guests to a special scuba dive, combining the thrill of underwater exploration with a powerful message of ocean conservation.

Led by the resorts’ dedicated water sports teams, 30 divers from both resorts descended to depths of up to 130 feet to observe the underwater environment and remove any debris they encountered.

To everyone’s satisfaction, very little garbage was found — a testament to the resorts’ ongoing commitment to marine protection.

“We’re happy to report that there wasn’t much garbage recovered,” shared Emron Manna, dive instructor at Sandals Negril, to enthusiastic applause from crew and guests aboard the dive boat.

“And that’s because for us, every day is World Oceans Day. We clean as we go,” added Manna.

Guests were moved by the initiative, which allowed them to actively contribute to environmental stewardship while enjoying the beauty of Negril’s marine life.

Frequent returning guest Ada Fernandez, who has stayed at multiple Sandals and Beaches resorts across the island, applauded the initiative.

“This is really great what the guys are doing, and I love that we didn’t see much of any garbage down there — which is a good sign,” said Fernandez.

The event highlighted not only the pristine condition of the surrounding waters, but also the resorts’ leadership in sustainable tourism. From eliminating single-use plastics to adopting energy-efficient systems and supporting local marine conservation programmes, both resorts remain at the forefront of eco-conscious hospitality.

“This initiative is just one of the many ways we continuously demonstrate our dedication to protecting our natural environment,” said Tavia-Shea Bernard, environment health and safety manager.

“It was inspiring to see our guests participate so eagerly, and it reinforces that sustainability is a shared responsibility,” added Bernard.

Ashley Simms, regional public relations manager for Sandals Negril and Beaches Negril, praised the cleanliness of the reefs surrounding the resorts but emphasised that the mission doesn’t end there.

“While we’re proud of the health of our reefs here in Negril, we understand that preserving Jamaica’s marine life requires a broader, national effort. That’s why we have made it a priority to partner with local schools, to help instil in the next generation a deep respect for our oceans and an understanding of the role they play in our survival. At Sandals and Beaches, we believe that sustainable practices must be a way of life — and that begins with education,” said Simms.

“With guests and team members working side by side, the dive served as a meaningful reminder that small, everyday actions — like cleaning as you go— can make a lasting impact on the health of our oceans, and that protecting the environment is not just a one-day event, but a lifelong commitment,” Simms added.