History
EcoMaris was founded in 2006 to operate Quebec’s first sail training vessel with an environmental focus.
It has since gained important experience in organizing environmental expeditions on the St. Lawrence and in Amazonia, as well as in developping various educational programs tailored to youth and adults alike, in the fields of science, ecology, employability, health and team building.
Our Mission
Our social programs help create an active and healthy generation that is inclined to eco-friendly decision making.
Society
Health
Environment
- We support youth aged 18 to 35 on Quebec’s only sail training vessel. Through our novel approach, we help at-risk youth facing various challenges : homelessness, mental health issues, addiction, drug consumption, poverty, isolation, low education, etc.
- We promote education by providing youth and the general public with a sailing program on a training vessel where participants also learn about environmental and civic engagement;
- We promote education by organizing flora and fauna census expeditions on the St. Lawrence, in order to contribute to scientific research;
- We promote education by offering public workshops and conferences on topics related to sailing and the environment.
Our Vision
We create unique learning experiences that change people’s lives through an introduction to the St. Lawrence, maritime professions and teamwork. We work on: developing youth’s intellect and imagination, encouraging leadership, improving environmental engagement and guiding participants back to school or the job market.
Our Philosophy
Our projects allow participants from all horizons to discover various marine ecosystems. Our educational approach is based on field experience and direct action, allowing participants to increase their autonomy. Exploring and interacting with the natural world are additional ways through which participants realize their potential, broaden their horizons and take responsibility for their actions.
Projects are achieved with the help of various communities, businesses and organizations, as well as with the support of government offices, to offer a programing that benefits from everyone’s competences.
Developing social skills such as leadership and responsability is a prerequisite to a successful professional and personal life. Such skills are often easier to acquire through direct experience. Our hands-on philosophy uses a participant’s physical, emotional, social and intellectual qualities. Put in real situations, apprentice sailors must adapt, make decisions, innovate and face challenges which are never beyond their capacities.
The EcoMaris Team
David Berger
Director of Ship Operations and Cofounder of the St. Lawrence Sailing program
steve goudy
Capstan Counsellor
GAËLLE CERF
Responsible of the Café des Rescapés at the Oceanic House in Montreal
MARIANO LOPEZ
DIRECToR, ECOMARIS TRAINING CENTER, MONTREAL OCEAN HOUSE
Marie-Dominique Michaud
Communication strategy of the Diffusion Center at the Oceanic House of Montreal
