Marine Experts Unite for Wetlands 27 at the Waterfront

By Alyssa | WhatsOn local events writer Alyssa picks out timely events, local favourites and useful places to eat, stay and explore.

Marking World Wetlands Day with an inspiring, action-oriented evening of marine conservation, Wetlands 27 brings Jersey's most dedicated ocean experts to the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel. Organised by Jersey Marine Conservation, this dedicated evening of talks is a rare opportunity for nature lovers, eco-tourists, and locals to dive deep into the island's unique coastal environment. Because Jersey experiences one of the largest tidal ranges in the world—sometimes exceeding twelve metres—the island's landmass practically doubles twice a day, revealing a vast, internationally recognised Ramsar wetland of vital ecological importance. It is not just a passive lecture; it is a vibrant celebration of the delicate marine ecosystems that surround our shores and a rallying cry to protect them, establishing it as a pivotal, highly anticipated event in the island's early 2027 eco-calendar.

Deep Dives and Coastal Discoveries

Step in from the crisp, blustery February air off Elizabeth Marina and you will immediately sense the warm, collaborative atmosphere brewing inside the modern conference space. The evening revolves around highly visual presentations and lively, solutions-focused discussions spotlighting local marine projects. Rather than dry, academic seminars, expect vivid storytelling that brings the hidden underwater world up to the surface. You will see striking macro-photography of Jersey's seagrass beds, brightly coloured anemones, and rare coastal birds illuminated on the big screen, accompanied by the gentle murmur of an engaged crowd eagerly asking questions about intertidal preservation, seagrass restoration projects, and the safe monitoring of local dolphin pods.

For visiting nature enthusiasts, the event offers a fascinating, accessible way to understand the sheer biodiversity of the island's shifting shores, from the expansive moonscape of the south-east coast at low tide to the hidden kelp forests of the north. For locals, it is a chance to discover fresh, practical ways to get involved with protecting the sandy beaches and rocky coves they walk every single day. The pacing of the evening balances sobering environmental realities with genuinely uplifting success stories, ensuring you leave feeling empowered rather than overwhelmed.

The Voices Protecting Our Shores

The real heart of the Wetlands 27 evening lies with the people driving these vital initiatives forward. You will hear firsthand from leading island conservationists, including Kevin McIlwee, Sophie Alexander, and Donna de Gruchy, who spend their days in waterproof gear, surveying windswept shorelines and defending vulnerable marine habitats from pollution and climate change. Their passion is palpable; these are experts who speak not just from textbooks, but from thousands of hours spent kneeling in rock pools and studying tidal flows.

The crowd that gathers for this event is just as compelling as the speakers on stage. It is typically a wonderfully warm, eclectic mix: seasoned marine biologists sharing tables with curious university students, enthusiastic amateur photographers, and local families who spend their weekends beachcombing. This dynamic creates a highly welcoming, inclusive space where a shared love for Jersey's surrounding ocean easily bridges the gap between expert scientists and everyday nature advocates. There is always a brilliant buzz during the breaks, with attendees swapping stories of recent marine sightings or their favourite hidden coastal walks.

Know Before You Go

• Book ahead: This is a popular, one-night-only event celebrating World Wetlands Day. To guarantee your seat, you will need to secure your spot in advance through the official Eventbrite page.
• Arrive early: Aim to get there at least twenty to thirty minutes before the talks begin. This gives you plenty of time to find a good seat, mingle with fellow attendees, and perhaps grab a coffee or a glass of wine from the hotel bar.
• Parking and transport: There is public parking nearby at the Waterfront, but it can get quite busy in the early evening. If you are staying centrally in St Helier, the venue is an easy, flat walk from the main bus station at Liberation Station.
• What to expect: The session runs for a generous three and a half hours, which typically includes a short intermission. The tone is highly accessible, making it a comfortable and engaging evening even for older children or teenagers with a keen, budding interest in marine biology.
• Accessibility: The venue is entirely modern with excellent accessibility, level access, and lifts, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

Make a Weekend of It

Since the evening centres entirely around the ocean, why not spend the rest of your winter weekend exploring Jersey's rich maritime history and coastal hospitality? The event takes place at the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, Jersey, which makes for a wonderfully convenient and relaxing base. You can roll straight out of bed to beautiful bay views and enjoy a slow morning coffee at their on-site Waterfront Brasserie. Alternatively, for a touch of classic island elegance right by the harbour, check into the Pomme d’Or Hotel at Liberation Square, or treat yourself to the superb spa facilities at The Royal Yacht Hotel & Spa to warm up your winter bones after a breezy coastal walk.

To continue the oceanic theme during the day, take a short stroll along the quay to the Maritime Museum, where interactive, multi-sensory exhibits brilliantly bring the island's historic seafaring past to life, covering everything from traditional boat building to legendary pirate tales. If you want to dive even deeper into the island's broader stories, book a fascinating guided walking tour with Stroll In Jersey to discover the hidden urban and coastal heritage of St Helier, or wander through the carefully curated galleries at the Jersey Museum & Art Gallery.

When it comes to dining before the talks, you are spoilt for choice. Head over to The Square for fantastic local fish dishes and hearty steaks, or tuck yourself away at La Bastille Bar & Brasserie, which balances absolute comfort with a touch of elegance—the perfect spot to take your time over a meal before heading to the waterfront for an evening of inspiring conservation.

I hope this evening inspires you to look at our beautiful Jersey coastline in a whole new light—enjoy the incredible talks and your time by the water! — Alyssa for WhatsOn.