NauticinBlu Europe Engages over 220 Students in Barcelona to Promote Ocean Literacy and Marine Sustainability

Uncategorized Citizen science Blue education Environmental education
  • The programme in Barcelona involved over 220 students from eight nautical institutes, combining classroom learning with hands-on marine conservation activities.
  • Implemented in Barcelona by Anèl·lides and developed by the Italian Foundation Marevivo with the support of the MSC Foundation, NauticinBlu Europe helps young people strengthen ocean literacy, explore blue economy opportunities and become ambassadors for marine protection.


The NauticinBlu Europe project, developed by the Italian Foundation Marevivo and supported by the MSC Foundation, was successfully implemented in Barcelona by Anèl·lides, Serveis Ambientals Marins, through a hands-on educational programme designed to bring young people closer to the sea and inspire active stewardship of marine ecosystems.

The initiative involved 222 students from eight nautical institutes across Barcelona, divided into ten classes, all taking part in a training pathway designed to strengthen awareness of marine ecosystems, environmental challenges and opportunities linked to the blue economy.By combining environmental learning with direct experience of the marine environment, the programme encouraged students to better understand the ocean’s role in sustaining life, livelihoods and coastal communities.

The programme combined theoretical and practical activities, including sessions on marine biology, ocean literacy, sustainability and climate change, alongside hands-on experiences such as snorkelling activities for direct observation of marine biodiversity and workshops focused on coastal ecosystems and sustainable coastal use.

Students also visited the Ateneu de Fabricació de la Fàbrica del Sol and participated in activities organised together with the association Dones amb Sal, further enriching the educational experience through direct engagement with environmental and social sustainability topics.

The project concluded with a final event attended by Fernando Pacheco (MSC Cruises), Javier Romo (Port of Barcelona) and Pep Hurtado (Strategic Office for the Coastal Area of Barcelona). Fernando Pacheco delivered introductory remarks on behalf of the MSC Foundation, underlining the importance of ocean literacy in empowering young people to become informed and responsible ambassadors for the sea.

During the ceremony, students presented their final projects developed throughout the programme, such as underwater videos and marine-related board games, and received certificates recognising their participation. Their work reflected the creativity, curiosity and commitment developed throughout the programme, demonstrating how ocean education can translate into practical ideas and positive action.

Building on the original NauticinBlu project launched in Italy, NauticinBlu Europe now extends its marine education activities to other European countries, including Greece, Portugal and Spain, with the aim of fostering a new generation committed to ocean protection and sustainability.  Since 2023, Nauticinblu Europe has involved 437 students and 47 teachers across some nautical institutes in Spain.

“We cannot protect what we do not know. That is why education has always been one of Marevivo’s founding pillars. Spreading knowledge and raising awareness among younger generations about the value of the sea and its essential role in sustaining life on the planet means investing in a more sustainable and responsible future. With NauticinBlu Europe, we aim to strengthen ocean literacy and inspire a new generation to protect marine ecosystems through scientific knowledge, direct experience and active participation,” Raffaella Giugni, Secretary General, Marevivo Foundation.

Daniela Picco, MSC Foundation Executive Director added: “Having supported NauticinBlu since its inception with Marevivo Foundation in Italy, we are proud to collaborate with Anèl·lides to help young people in Spain strengthen their understanding of the marine environment while exploring future maritime careers. We warmly congratulate Anèl·lides, participating schools and students on another successful year of the programme.”