The Diplomat Beach Resort Partners with Ocean Rescue Alliance International to Support Marine Conservation Efforts

Hollywood, FL [December 3, 2024]— The Diplomat Beach Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton, is proud to announce its partnership with Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI), an organization that combines ecological science and innovative technology to create artificial reefs that restore marine habitats, support biodiversity, and strengthen coastal resiliency. By blending sustainable concrete with living coral and incorporating artistic designs, ORAI fosters community connections, promotes ocean conservation, and offers unique dive destinations. As part of this collaboration, The Diplomat Beach Resort, alongside Hilton Global Foundation, has contributed $30,000 to support ORAI's ongoing marine conservation initiatives. A donation ceremony highlighted this significant investment in ocean health featuring representatives from both organizations including Dean Lane, General Manager of The Diplomat Beach Resort; Todd Arviso, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations, U.S., Canada & French Polynesia, Hilton; Shelby Thomas, Founder and CEO of ORAI; and Katie Williams, Director of Marketing and Partnerships.

The collaboration between The Diplomat Beach Resort and ORAI marks a deepened commitment to responsible travel and destination stewardship, with a series of activities and programs designed to engage both guests and the local community. Key components of this partnership include:

• Sponsored Art Reef: The Diplomat’s sponsored coral, an artistic heart-shaped sculpture, is scheduled for early 2025 for the new offshore installation, located off Hollywood Beach. Positioned at the heart of the reef garden, this artistic creation embodies a deep commitment to ocean conservation and a profound love for the world's oceans.

• Cocktails for Corals Program: A portion of proceeds from a featured craft cocktail at The Hotel Bar will be directed toward ORAI’s coral restoration projects, allowing guests to contribute to marine conservation with every sip.

• Children’s Educational Programs: The Diplomat and ORAI will introduce engaging educational sessions for children through The Diplomat Kids’ Club starting in early 2025, focusing on the importance of ocean conservation and fostering an early love for marine stewardship.

• Group Dive Excursions: The resort will offer unique dive experiences for meeting and event groups, allowing attendees to explore coral reefs and witness firsthand the impact of restoration efforts.

Shelby Thomas, CEO and Founder of ORAI, expressed gratitude for the collaboration: “Support from The Diplomat Beach Resort and Hilton allows us to expand our initiatives and reach a wider audience. Together, we are not only protecting marine ecosystems but also inspiring the next generation of ocean advocates.”

The artificial reef installation is situated just one mile off The Diplomat Beach Resort, which has long been a hidden gem for divers and marine enthusiasts, offering a thriving underwater ecosystem and unique exploration opportunities. Through the relationship with ORAI, The Diplomat aims to build on this legacy, enhancing the ocean’s health and engaging guests in its preservation.

As The Diplomat Beach Resort continues to enhance its sustainability and environmental responsibility programs, the partnership with ORAI is a major step in creating sustainable travel experiences for guests. This initiative, along with Hilton’s wider Travel with Purpose program, allows guests to participate in eco-friendly activities while making a tangible impact on marine conservation.

For additional information about The Diplomat Beach Resort’s sustainable initiatives or to learn more about how to participate in ORAI programs, please visit DiplomatResort.com or OceanRescueAlliance.org.