Aurora Expeditions has appointed its first ocean conservation ambassador as it seeks to “inspire guests on board to also become ambassadors for conservation when they return home from an expedition”.

Joanna Ruxton, founder of Ocean Generation, has been described by Sir David Attenborough as “the person responsible for the plastic-free movement”.

According to Aurora, Ocean Generation has a vision to “free the ocean of human threats within a generation” with everyone an “inclusive part of the plan of action”.

Ruxton will share her expertise in on-board lectures.

Ruxton said: “It’s an honour to be appointed by Aurora Expeditions as their first ambassador. Together we hope that their new ship Sylvia Earle, named after the esteemed American Oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle, will be part of the change engine that will educate and engage audiences across the globe.”

Aurora Expeditions CEO Monique Ponfoort added: “Female scientists and conservationists are leading the way in global initiatives to protect our planet, and Jo’s contribution highlights the devastating impact of plastic waste found in ocean ecosystems has helped to turn the tide against single-use plastics.

“Through her charity Ocean Generation, Jo’s goal is to inspire an inclusive global movement to restore a sustainable relationship between humanity and the ocean.

“This is entirely in keeping with Aurora Expeditions’ 30-year heritage of responsible and respectful expeditionary voyaging. We are a perfect match.

“Transformational and responsible travel sits alongside respect for the world that we all share. By supporting Jo’s incredible vision to safeguard the ocean, we hope to inspire our guests to contribute sustainably to the fragile relationship between man and mother nature.”

Aurora’s second purpose-built ship Sylvia Earle is schedule to launch in October 2021. The ship is scheduled to visit a number of new destinations for the line, including Alaska, Baja California, the Russian Far East, Raja Ampat and West Papua.