A private yacht owned by Waitt Foundation founder and philanthropist Ted Waitt from the United States will be carrying out a research expedition on coral reefs in Ha’apai and Vava’u.

The local agent said the yacht arrived in Nuku’alofa from Tahiti this morning May 29 and left for Ha’apai in the afternoon.

Carrying 14 crew, 12 marine biologists and three officials from Tonga Fisheries, the yacht will carry out the research on the condition of coral reefs for 12-days, on these two outer islands.

Waitt Foundation’s vision includes funding global initiatives focusing on marine protected areas and sustainable fishing policy and practice.

The foundation also provides grants, technical assistance, advice to support innovative design and partners with governments, funders, NGO, academics and businesses.