A Dive into Conservation and Cinematic Wonders: The International Ocean Film Tour in Corralejo
This Sunday, July 12, at 18:00, the Municipal Auditorium of Corralejo will host the International Ocean Film Tour, a prestigious event recognized as Europe’s foremost ocean film festival. This special showing will be the only screening in Fuerteventura and promises an engaging blend of environmental awareness and cinematic storytelling.
The Essence of the Film Tour
The 12th volume of the International Ocean Film Tour features five compelling international documentaries, placing a particular emphasis on the conservation of sharks and rays—a focus that connects directly to the beautiful Canary Islands. The festival has been carefully curated to highlight tales of adventure, personal triumphs, and the importance of marine conservation, with the ocean serving not only as a backdrop but also as a central narrative thread that weaves through the lives of those depicted.
Special Guest: Maite Asensio Elvira
Adding an intriguing layer to the event is the participation of Maite Asensio Elvira, a marine scientist, environmental educator, and underwater photographer. As the representative of the environmental organization Latitud Azul, Maite will present her European project on “Conservation Strategies for Sharks and Rays in the Canary Islands.” This initiative aims to deepen scientific understanding and bolster protections for these magnificent sea creatures.
In the waters surrounding the Canaries, researchers have identified 78 species of sharks and rays, with approximately 45% of them classified as threatened. Alarmingly, about 20% lack substantial scientific data. The project works tirelessly to gather vital information on the biology, distribution, and ecological threats facing these species while also creating a vulnerability map to highlight areas of concern.
Diverse Program Highlighting Marine Adventures
The festival’s lineup begins with “Christa Funk: Passion for the Waves,” a portrait of a sports photographer making her way in a traditionally male-dominated field. A breathtaking journey from Hawaii unfolds as she captures some of the world’s most formidable waves, including the famed Pipeline.
Next, “The Last Dive” follows veteran diver Terry Kennedy as he reconnects with Willy, a manta ray he has known for over 40 years on the Mexican island of San Benedicto. This poignant film beautifully explores the connections between nature and personal memory while underscoring the importance of marine conservation.
“A Different Beast” chronicles brothers Lachlan, Ewan, and Jamie Maclean as they take on the daunting challenge of rowing across the Pacific Ocean non-stop—an adventure rich in physical endurance and brotherly bonds.
For those seeking adrenaline, “Up the Coast” features world champion kiteboarder Kevin Langeree as he travels the picturesque coast of South Africa in search of the perfect wind.
Lastly, “Home is the Ocean” tells the inspiring tale of the Schwörer family, who traded conventional living in Switzerland for a life aboard a sailboat, exploring global perspectives on education, coexistence, and our relationship with the planet.
Bridging Stories: Local Conservation Efforts
Maite Asensio’s presentation will resonate throughout the event, connecting the international narratives with local conservation efforts unfolding in the Canary Islands. The strategy spearheaded by Latitud Azul calls for collaboration among scientists, public administrations, the fishing sector, marine tourism initiatives, and other ocean-related stakeholders.
Anticipated activities include analyzing bycatch data, conducting participatory workshops, launching environmental education campaigns, and promoting citizen science initiatives. A short film will also be produced to raise public awareness regarding the necessity of shark and ray conservation.
Engaging Local Audiences
Attendees at the Fuerteventura screening will have the opportunity to participate in exciting giveaways related to marine life and adventure. Prizes include a trip for two to Lanzarote, diving courses, online marine conservation training, and vouchers for nature-based guided experiences.
The International Ocean Film Tour is a creation of Germany’s Moving Adventures GmbH and is represented in Spain, Andorra, and Portugal by the Canary Island production house Kinema Producciones SL. This event marks the second consecutive year of collaboration with the La Oliva City Council, supported through its various departments including Environment, Sports, and Culture, alongside the local Clean Ocean Project.
With its rich program and focus on marine life conservation, this year’s tour not only entertains but also educates, inspiring local and visiting communities to connect with and protect their oceanic surroundings. Whether through stunning stories or practical conservation strategies, the festival aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation and understanding of the oceans that bind us all.
