Collaboration between W. SMIT and Diergaarde Blijdorp
Invisible work, visible results: underwater inspections and protection at the ‘Oceanium’.
A special partnership
for a good cause
W.SMIT pops up everywhere. Including when it comes to unique partnerships. As a gold adopter of the reef sharks at Diergaarde Blijdorp, we use our diving and maritime expertise for the maintenance and protection of the aquatic habitats in and around the ‘Oceanium’.
Essential techniques within a unique ecosystem
The Oceanium is home to some of Blijdorp’s most iconic residents, including the reef sharks that play a central role in the aquarium’s ecosystem. Together with Blijdorp’s experienced diving team, we provide support for operations that require heavier equipment or specialist diving capacity. In doing so, we help maintain these habitats and keep them in optimal condition.
Our role in this collaboration focuses primarily on underwater inspections and ensuring cathodic protection. These techniques are essential for protecting metal structures underwater against corrosion and wear over the long term. In this way, we contribute both to the technical integrity of the installations and to Blijdorp’s wider mission to protect and preserve nature.
This collaboration is more than a project. It is a three-year partnership in which we use our experience to help preserve the underwater life in and around the ‘Oceanium’. With care for the animals, visitors and the vulnerable environment, we work together with Blijdorp to safeguard what lies beneath the water’s surface.
