Limited Edition Sunglasses / Glasses Strap - Inspired by a Whale’s Rescue
The strap features a distinctive yellow colour, inspired by the buoy recovered during the humpback whale’s rescue in Algoa Bay. It’s more than just a practical accessory; it’s a tribute to the coordinated efforts that saved a life. With bespoke beads that includes the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) logo, this strap is a symbol of our partnership and shared commitment to protecting marine life.
On the 21st September 2023, a Raggy Charters marine tour vessel in Algoa Bay, South Africa, spotted a distressing scene of a humpback whale, exhausted and entangled in fishing gear.
This juvenile Humpback Whale entangled in a heavy mass of plastic ropes and floating buoys around its Fluke (the base of the caudal fin, where the strong swimming muscles of the tail are found). Though the whale was in good health, the ghost gear severely hindered its ability to dive and feed, slowly exhausting them, which would ultimately lead to death, so it was vital the whale was freed quickly.
The Raggy Charters crew notified the National Sea Rescue Institute, who worked tirelessly to cut through the thick ropes. The operation was dangerous and complex, involving multiple rescue boats and a coordinated team. But thanks to their skill and perseverance, the whale was finally freed and swam away, shattered but alive.
The rescued whale has since been identified alive and healthy, thanks to the unique patterns on their tail.
The ghost gear that ensnared the whale was recovered and through collaborative links with the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA), made its way to us in Waterhaul, where we saw an opportunity to create something truly unique from this near-tragedy. Every pair of sunglasses crafted from this ghost gear is a testament to our commitment to sustainability and marine conservation. A percentage of every sale will be donated to support the work of the WCA and its local partners who played a vital role in the ghost gear's recovery..
EVERY PRODUCT HAS A DIRECT IMPACT
Yellow Buoy Colour: The vibrant yellow is a direct nod to the buoy recovered during the rescue, making this strap a small yet powerful symbol of survival and transformation.
Bespoke Beading: Featuring the WCA logo, the beading on the strap represents our collaboration with marine conservationists and the impact of your purchase.
Functional Design: Adjustable to fit any pair of sunglasses, this strap ensures your eyewear stays secure during all your adventures, while reminding you of the ocean’s fragility and resilience.
Supporting Marine Conservation: With every strap sold, 20% of the proceeds go directly to the WCA and its partners, funding critical efforts to rescue marine animals and promote sustainable fishing practices. You will also be entered into a prize draw for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to officially name the whale.
By choosing our Limited Edition Rescue to Recycle Eyewear Strap, you’re playing a crucial role in supporting the marine conservation efforts of our dedicated partners.
20% of the proceeds from each strap go directly to the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) and their partners, helping fund critical whale rescue missions and innovative research into ropeless fishing techniques.
The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) leads the global charge in protecting whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Sophie Lewis, CEO (interim) from WCA remarks,
“This eyewear strap might be small, but its impact is immense. Every sale brings us one step closer to safer oceans for all marine life.
Our partnership with Raggy Charters, the whale-watching group that played a pivotal role in the Algoa Bay rescue, ensures that every product sold has a story and a purpose.
“Seeing our efforts immortalised in these products is truly heartening. It’s a reminder that every life saved is a victory for marine conservation,”
We’re also excited to work with Happywhale, an innovative project that connects people with marine life through whale tracking and identification. They’ve generously offered a chance for all customers of our limited edition items or who donate to the World Cetacean Alliance a once-in-a-lifetime- opportunity to name the rescued whale, adding a personal touch to this ongoing story.
Each limited edition item in our Rescue to Recycle range is a symbol of collaboration and conservation. Explore our Limited Edition Sunglasses and T-Shirt to further support our shared mission to protect our oceans.
THE RESCUE TO RECYCLE RANGE
View the other limited edition items, to commemorate the incredible story of this whale rescue.
With every purchase, much needed donations are raised for the World Cetacean Alliance and its partners to help whale conservation. This is your opportunity to get your hands on one of these symbolic limited edition pieces. You also can make a donation directly to the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA). Every purchase or donation will also be entered into a once in a lifetime draw, where you can officially name the whale as well
RESCUE TO RECYCLE
SUNGLASSES
These aren’t just sunglasses; they’re a powerful statement of survival, hope, and transformation. Our Limited Edition Rescue to Recycle Sunglasses are crafted from the very ghost gear that nearly claimed the life of a juvenile humpback whale in Algoa Bay, South Africa. On September 21st, 2023.
VIEW LIMITED EDITION SUNGLASSES
RESCUE TO RECYCLE
T-SHIRT
Introducing our Limited Edition T-Shirt, crafted to support whale conservation. This exclusive design celebrates our partnership with the World Cetacean Alliance, with 20% of every sale donated to protect marine life. Wear your commitment to the oceans with pride.
DONATE TO
THE WCA
Get involved in whale conservation by making a direct donation to the World Cetacean Alliance. Your contribution enters you into a once-in-a-lifetime draw to name a whale, giving everyone a chance to make a lasting impact on marine life. Join us in supporting this vital cause!
About WATERHAUL
We're passionate about combining adventure with purpose - action on the ocean, for the oceans. Our products are designed to meet the demands of this environment and enhance your experience whilst symbolising and inspiring marine conservation.
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