Today, Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo returned another Caretta caretta (loggerhead turtle) to the sea, following several months of rehabilitation. The operation took place offshore, 12 nautical miles from the coast, with the turtle transported aboard the Portuguese Navy’s NRP Cassiopeia, which departed from the Portimão Naval Support Point under the command of First Lieutenant Gonçalves Dias. Once again, the Navy’s support was crucial to the success of this release.

Named Venus – in tribute to the goddess of love and beauty – the turtle was found floating, in a weakened state, off the coast of Cabo de Sines on 27 December by a fisherman who promptly alerted the ARROJAL team (Alentejo Marine Animal Stranding Network). The organisation ensured her transport to Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo, where she was received and treated by a team of veterinary professionals.

Upon arrival, Venus presented with blood and lung abnormalities. After a period of treatment and recovery, she was deemed ready to return to her natural habitat. The release took place on Wednesday, 14 May, and the turtle was equipped with a microchip and flipper tags, allowing for future identification should she be observed again.

“Venus arrived at the Porto d’Abrigo in a debilitated state. She underwent detailed clinical examinations, and a treatment plan was established. Her response was positive and progressive, enabling us to safely prepare her for this return to the sea. Each release is a moment of great significance for the entire team — it is the culmination of demanding work and a reaffirmation of our commitment to marine life protection.” explains Antonieta Nunes, veterinary nurse in charge at Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo.

The operation was carried out with the collaboration of the Portuguese Navy, whose technical and logistical support is essential to the success of these release efforts. These joint efforts not only help save animals in distress — through rapid risk identification and immediate rehabilitation — but also contribute significantly to marine biodiversity conservation.

“The Portuguese Navy, through the Southern Maritime Zone Command, supported Zoomarine in the release of a sea turtle undergoing recovery at the institution’s rehabilitation centre. This collaboration involved the direct participation of a Navy vessel, which enabled the safe transport of the animal to its natural habitat, ensuring the ideal conditions for its reintroduction into the marine environment.

This action reinforces the ongoing partnership between the Portuguese Navy and Zoomarine, united by the shared goal of protecting biodiversity. This cooperation demonstrates the commitment of both entities to the conservation of marine species and to promoting a healthier ocean through concrete, coordinated actions.

In addition to the positive environmental impact, this initiative also serves as a public awareness example of the importance of preserving marine life. The Navy’s involvement highlights its active role in the defence of natural heritage, alongside civil partners dedicated to research and nature conservation,” said CZMS CMG Conceição Dias.

This release is yet another expression of the ongoing rehabilitation and conservation work carried out by Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo — the first centre in Portugal dedicated to the recovery of marine species, founded in 2002 in partnership with ICNF (Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas).

With advanced facilities and a dedicated team, Porto d’Abrigo has successfully rehabilitated hundreds of marine animals, strengthening its role in the preservation of marine life.

Together, We Protect!