LIMITED EDITION Rescue To Recycle Sunglasses x World Cetacean Alliance

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. 33% 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.

Ghost Gear Frames: Made entirely from recycled fishing gear recovered from the whale entangled in ghost gear, in Algoa Bay, South Africa. Each frame is a tangible reminder of the marine life saved from this deadly plastic.

Algoa Bay Coordinates: The inside of each frame is etched with the coordinates of Algoa Bay, a subtle yet powerful reminder of the whale’s rescue and the origins of the material.

Polarised Mineral Glass+ Lenses: Offering the highest optical clarity, scratch resistance, and full UV protection. These lenses reduce glare and enhance your visual experience, whether it’s a bright sunny day or an overcast adventure.

Unique Packaging: The unboxing experience is as special as the product itself. The sustainably sourced UK-made packaging features ventral pleats reminiscent of a whale’s underbelly and a striking yellow hue inspired by the buoys recovered during the rescue operation.

Limited Edition: Each pair comes with a Certificate of Authenticity and a unique booklet that details the entire rescue operation, the transformation process of the ghost gear, and the impact that purchasing these sunglasses will have on future conservation efforts.

Hand-Drawn Artwork: Included in the package is artwork by artist Rachel Brooks, depicting the whale which was dramatically rescued. This hand-drawn imagery is a beautiful reminder of the life saved and the ongoing battle against ocean pollution.

Support for Marine Conservation: With every pair of sunglasses sold 33% goes directly to the WCA and its partners, supporting further whale rescue efforts. You will also be entered into a prize draw for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to officialy name the whale.

By buying these limited edition sunglasses, you’re not just acquiring a high-quality product; you’re contributing to a network of dedicated conservationists making a real difference.

33% of your purchase goes directly to the World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) and its partners, helping fund ongoing whale rescue operations.

The World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) is the world’s largest partnership working to protect whales, dolphins, and porpoises.

“We’re proud to be collaborating with Waterhaul on this very special project,” said Sophie Lewis, CEO of the World Cetacean Alliance.

“Entanglement is one of the biggest threats facing whales today, but we can make a difference by working together to ensure the ocean becomes a cleaner, safer place for them. As an international NGO, we know that it's the work of our partners on the ground that is key to protecting these incredible animals. By partnering with Waterhaul, we can turn this dangerous waste into donations that support community conservation globally. We hope that everyone who purchases a pair of these sunglasses, or receives them as a gift, will connect with the story of where they came from and follow our rescued whale on their journey around the world!”

We’re also proud to work with Raggy Charters, the whale-watching company that first spotted the entangled humpback in Algoa Bay. Their quick action set the rescue in motion. In their own words, “The chance to see this ghost gear turned into something positive is incredibly rewarding. It reminds us that every small action can make a big difference.”

Additionally, Happywhale, a project that tracks and identifies whales through citizen science, has partnered with us to offer a unique opportunity. Anyone who purchases our limited edition products is entered into a special once-in-a-lifetime draw to name the rescued whale, a chance to contribute to its ongoing story.

TRY ME ON AT HOME

- We get it, you want to see, feel and wear our sunglasses before committing. That's why we offer 30 days to try at home and exchange or return.

- Free UK returns with the Royal Mail returns service. 

- Entirely plastic free and sustainable packaging.

- Worldwide shipping options.

EVERY PAIR HAS A DIRECT IMPACT

You are directly enabling the expansion of our ghost gear recovery and recycling efforts and creating a demand for plastic to be removed from the ocean.

You'll also be supporting the delivery of PlaNET Action; our unique education program. We deliver workshops across the UK, with our portable ocean plastic recycling machines and our marine biologist educators deployed to engage and inspire the next-generation to understand the marine environment, why we should protect it, and to encourage innovative thinking.