5 November 2026
Annual Gala Celebrating Marine Research, Conservation and the Yachting Community Welcomed More Than 240 Guests to Fort Lauderdale
The International SeaKeepers Society welcomed more than 240 guests to its annual Founders Event on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale. The evening brought together members of the yachting, scientific, philanthropic and conservation communities to celebrate individuals advancing ocean research and conservation.
The evening also celebrated the contributions of the Society's global DISCOVERY Fleet, with representatives from more than 30 vessels and over 60 captains, owners and crew members in attendance to receive awards recognizing their support of marine research and conservation.
The annual gala highlighted the critical role of marine species in healthy ocean ecosystems while recognizing individuals whose leadership, scientific contributions and philanthropic support have helped advance ocean conservation.
2026 Honorees
Christina Lötter – 2026 SeaKeeper of the Year
Christina Lötter was honored as the 2026 SeaKeeper of the Year in recognition of 15 years of dedication, leadership and support of The International SeaKeepers Society. With more than 40 years of international experience spanning luxury yacht building, hospitality, events, marketing and communications, Lötter has played an active role in strengthening SeaKeepers' international engagement and advancing initiatives that connect the yachting community with ocean conservation.
She has also championed women in ocean advocacy, supported the growth of SeaKeepers' UK and South African Chapters, and helped establish the organization's Ambassador Programme.
FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE
Sandra Camper - 2026 Artist of the Year
Marine artist Sandra Camper was honoured with the 2026 Artist of the Year Award, recognising her exceptional talent and commitment to ocean conservation. Originally from Switzerland and now based in Florida, Sandra draws inspiration from her passion for SCUBA diving and the beauty of marine life, bringing underwater ecosystems to life through vibrant colours and rich textures. An internationally recognised, award-winning artist, Sandra uses her work to celebrate the natural world, raise awareness of marine conservation and inspire others to protect our oceans for future generations.
Dr. Shelby Thomas – 2026 NextGen Awardee
Dr. Shelby Thomas received the 2026 NextGen Award in recognition of her work advancing marine restoration and conservation. The founder of Ocean Rescue Alliance International, Thomas has led more than 40 restoration initiatives involving coral reefs, seagrass meadows, oyster habitats and other marine ecosystems.
Through ORAI, she has helped deploy more than 500 artificial reef structures and supported the outplanting of more than 30,000 corals. Since her first collaboration with SeaKeepers in 2023, the organizations have partnered on research and monitoring expeditions examining reef restoration and fish habitat.
FULL BIOGRAPHY HERE
Celebrating the DISCOVERY Fleet
Founders 2026 also recognized the SeaKeepers DISCOVERY Fleet, a community of privately owned recreational vessels that provides essential support for SeaKeepers' marine research, conservation and education programs around the world.
The evening highlighted how collaboration between yacht owners, scientists and conservation organizations can create opportunities for meaningful research and ocean stewardship.