The small hatchlings were originally discovered in October on the beaches of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas by Arnoldo Falcoff, the resort’s resident dive instructor. Falcoff was concerned for the sea turtles as they were struggling in the strong currents along the shores of Great Bay. He contacted Coral World for guidance and the turtles were taken to the marine park where they have been rehabilitated and are ready to be returned to the wild.
Assistant Curator of Exhibits Erica Palmer said, “Our goal is to give these hatchlings a better chance of survival. While in our care at Coral World we were able to track their weight and make sure they were getting a proper diet. They are now ready to be released back into the wild.”
“We are pleased to work closely with Coral World on a number of projects that aid the environment and community, including the turtle release on the Lady Lynsey. It is an exciting opportunity for our guests to discover native animals and habitats, as well as the impact people have on the environment,” said Marc Langevin, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas.
The turtle release on the Lady Lynsey is one of several environmental programs offered through the Community Footprints program at The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas. On January 20, 2009 guests of the resort will have the opportunity to volunteer their time cleaning local beaches during a “Discover the Mangroves” Give Back Getaway event. Profits from the event will be donated to environmental education and restoration programs through the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands.

This program fits well with Coral World’s mission to entertain, to educate and to inspire appreciation for the Caribbean marine environment and the beautiful plants and trees of the Virgin Islands.

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, ST. THOMAS
Overlooking the turquoise waters of Great Bay, The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas is a secluded hideaway on a 30-acre beachfront estate with breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and neighboring islands. As part of the recent $40 million renovation, the resort offers a variety of luxurious amenities including lavishly designed presidential suites and guest rooms; four distinctive ocean-front dining choices; a 53’ luxury catamaran, the Lady Lynsey; and for those visiting by sea, the resort offers moorings, allowing guests to access this ultimate lifestyle destination by sea or air. The acclaimed resort continues to garner distinguished accolades from top publications such as Conde Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.

For further information and reservations, please call (800)241-3333, access the web site or contact a travel professional.