{"id":16,"date":"2019-12-19T18:04:54","date_gmt":"2019-12-19T17:04:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/nico\/?page_id=16"},"modified":"2026-07-21T06:53:11","modified_gmt":"2026-07-21T04:53:11","slug":"team","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/team\/","title":{"rendered":"The team"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

THE SHELLTONE TEAM<\/h1>\n

Discover all the enthusiasts who volunteer their time for the welfare of cetaceans!\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Behind every operator selected, every destination featured, and every position taken by the Shelltone Whale Project is a team of researchers, naturalists, marine professionals, and passionate individuals united by a shared conviction: respect for cetaceans should be the standard.<\/h5>\n
\u00a0<\/h5>\n
WHY OUR SELECTION MATTERS :\u00a0<\/strong><\/h5>\n
We do not score operators.<\/h5>\n
We do not sell visibility.<\/h5>\n
We do not award certifications.<\/h5>\n
We simply apply the same standards everywhere in the world.<\/h5>\n
Our standards are built on decades of field experience, scientific research, and a deep understanding of cetaceans.<\/h5> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

The Smooth Operators<\/h1>\n

\u00a0<\/h1> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"Photographie \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Pierre Lavagne de Castellan<\/h2>\n

Marine Bioacoustician \u00b7 Ethologist \u00b7 Founder & Director of Research<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\n

He met his first humpback whale and listened to its song in Hawaii in 1981. Since then, he has sought to establish contact and initiate inter-species communication with them, and music soon became an obvious avenue.<\/p>\n

He created the non-profit organization Shelltone Whale Project, under the French law of 1901, and obtained public interest recognition for his research in underwater acoustics and his environmental actions in the marine environment.<\/p>\n

Over a period of two years, at the acoustic research laboratory of the Ecole Centrale de Nantes and at Stanford University in California, he developed the Shelltone, a wind instrument that enables him to play music underwater in the same range as humpback whales.<\/p>\n

Since then, he has been playing music with humpback whales, first in Maui Hawaii, then in Northern California, but also in Guadeloupe and various other parts of the world.<\/p>\n

The first underwater musical exchanges between man and cetaceans were born of these experiences.<\/p>\n

He continues his personal research into inter-species communication, while contributing his expertise in approaching large cetaceans to the Shelltone Whale Project organization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Jade Zoghbi<\/h2>\n

Geographer \u00b7 Associate Director of Research
<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\n
\n
\n

Jade completed her doctorate in geography with a focus on the governance of coastal and marine environments, marine protected areas, and the relationship between human activities and the well-being of marine life, particularly humpback whales.
Her research has taken her from the Arctic to the Mediterranean, combining academic work with extensive ethnographic field studies. She graduated from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) and has collaborated with the Arctic Research Center on projects related to marine and coastal governance.
Jade has also worked with the European Commission as an expert on territorial governance and Indigenous knowledge systems. She contributes to several national and international initiatives dedicated to ocean literacy, citizen engagement, and the promotion of more respectful relationships with the marine environment. Passionate about sailing, cultural heritage, and community life, she brings to the Shelltone Whale Project a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges research, conservation, and human connection to the sea.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n \n
\n
\n \"Jade-team-Shelltone-Whale-Project\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Lisa Denning<\/h2>\n
\n
Lisa Denning is a photographer, videographer, ocean guide and film producer.<\/strong><\/div>\n
\u00a0<\/div>\n
For over 25 years, she has guided individuals and groups in encounters with dolphins and whales in the water. Lisa is based in Hawaii, where she regularly organizes week-long retreats for people to meet our ocean friends. She also takes groups to Bimini, Bahamas, to swim with dolphins and to the island of Dominica to rub shoulders with sperm whales. As a videographer, her work has been featured in various documentaries, films and magazines. She is co-producer, with Hydee Tehana, of the film OCEAN.

<\/div>\n

For her, the ocean is home, and she really enjoys putting others in touch with her friends, the dolphins and whales. They call us into the water to be with them, to learn from them and to move towards our greatest joy.<\/p>\n

To find out more or get in touch with Lisa, visit her website!<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n Lisa's website <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"Lisa-Denning\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Pierre Robert De Latour<\/h2>\n
\n

Pierre Robert de Latour, founder of USEA and president of the association Orques Sans Fronti\u00e8res.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

He is known worldwide as \u00abThe Orca Whisperer\u00bb. Author of the best-selling Brother of the orcas<\/em>(Gl\u00e9nat \u00c9dition), he has logged over 7,500 dives with free killer whales, becoming an international reference on their behavior. The first man to dive with killer whales in Arctic waters in a light wetsuit, Pierre has acquired unique expertise on killer whales and 15 other marine mammal species since his first expedition in 1998.<\/p>\n

Committed to respecting marine wildlife, he has developed responsible methodologies for safe encounters with cetaceans, used by divers and skippers worldwide. Pierre is also the director of Journey to Orca country<\/em> and co-producer of The Orc People<\/em> alongside Captain Paul Watson. His commitment to conservation and awareness-raising has made him a leading figure in marine mammal protection.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n See the USEA website <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"Pierre\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n
\n

Silvia P. Botana<\/h2>\n

Veterinarian \u2013 Professional diver.<\/strong><\/p>\n

A veterinarian specializing in exotic and wild animals, she has extensive clinical and ethological experience, focusing on the observation of animal behavior and communication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

His work aims to promote a respectful relationship between humans and animals, based on reading signals, non-invasive interaction, and respect for the natural rhythms of each species.<\/p>\n

She has participated in the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands and in sea turtle conservation projects, experiences that have shaped her ethical and practical approach to conservation and fieldwork.<\/p>\n

A lover of the sea and professional diver, she combines her scientific training with a deep connection to the marine environment.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

From this perspective, she brings a rigorous and conscious approach to whale watching, helping to interpret their behavior and encouraging responsible interactions that always prioritize their well-being.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n \n
\n
\n \n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @mellamobosque <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @cvgaiteira <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"Silvia-SWP-2\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Norin Chai<\/h2>\n
\n

Wildlife veterinarian<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n


His career began in Africa, where he managed a national park. After 25 years of working with wildlife, whether in zoos or care centers, he still has the same passion: to care for, or at least relieve, animal suffering. He met Pierre in 2016. When he tells him that, for him, whale songs are like mantras or the \u00abOm\u00bb of Buddhist monks, his words interest him. Whale songs go beyond communication: they heal, they sublimate, they cleanse. Pierre understands this, and his words touch him deeply.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n \n
\n
\n \"Screenshot\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Lori Piano\u00a0<\/h2>\n
\n

Lori is a guide for cetacean-watching expeditions.<\/strong>, She grew up surrounded by animals, and this natural connection with them led her to make it her vocation: first as a top-level horsewoman, then as a wild animal carer, her encounter with free-living cetaceans was a revelation, particularly in terms of sound. She travelled the world for 10 years to study, understand and protect them.<\/p>\n

For her, it’s urgent to reconnect with the primordial harmony between man, nature and animals. She trained as a sports educator specializing in aquatic activities, swimming and relaxation.<\/p>\n

In 2018, she created \u00abBreathe & Rebreathe Diving\u00bb an eco responsible diving and whale whatching center, which is becoming a Shelltone Whale Project reference, aboard her sailboat C\u00e9tac\u00e9a dedicated to the protection of Mediterranean cetaceans, participatory research and marine bioacoustics.<\/p>\n

Ren\u00e9 Heuzey’s strong commitment to the environment led him to ask her to become an ambassador for \u00abUn Oc\u00e9an de Vie\u00bb in the Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d’Azur region.<\/p>\n

All year round, she offers naturalist outings off the coast of Beaulieu-sur-mer to meet these majestic yet vulnerable creatures.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n Lori's website <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"lori_piano\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Dominic Dallaire<\/h2>\n
\n

Emergency doctor – Professional underwater cetacean photographer.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Born and raised in Saguenay, Quebec, Dominic spent his youth at Cap Bon D\u00e9sir, watching whales in the St. Lawrence River and dreaming of being able to swim with them. In 2014, his dream came true when he swam with Sri Lanka’s majestic blue whales for the first time.
Using his talents as a photographer, he immortalizes through his lens the special moments he spends with these giants of the seas, so beloved around the world.<\/p>\n


Through his photos, he aims to raise public awareness of the importance of protecting marine mammals and their habitats around the world.
His knowledge of the gentle approach to cetaceans makes him an excellent expert for the Shelltone team.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @dominicunderwater <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"dmonique_dallaire-1\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Cathy Lacourbas<\/h2>\n
\n

Cathy, a.k.a. \u00abOcean Shieldmaiden\u00bb, has been committed to protecting the oceans since childhood.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Founder of the association Breach Antilles<\/em> in 2015, it works to raise awareness of cetacean conservation among disadvantaged young people and supports scientific research in bio-acoustics and ethology.

Collaborating with experts such as Dr Nad\u00e8ge Gandilhon and Pr Herv\u00e9 Glotin, she has co-authored studies on humpback whale songs in the Caribbean. A seasoned sailor, Cathy guides and dives with orcas in Norway for ORCA NORWAY and USEA, and shares her passion thanks to her freediving instructor’s certificate obtained in 2023.<\/p>\n

In 2024, his son Robin took up the torch with \u00abDu Fleuve\u00bb, an eco-responsible whale watching base in Quebec, combining passion, hydrophones and the sharing of observations with research institutes. Together, they embody a family commitment to protecting marine mammals and their environment.<\/p>\n<\/div> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n \n
\n
\n \"Cathy \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

L\u00e9a Lavagne de Castellan<\/h2>\n

Member of the Guadeloupe research team<\/strong><\/p>\n

L\u00e9a has developed a deep understanding of cetaceans, based on trust and respect, over many years in Guadeloupe’s waters.<\/p>\n

A complicity has developed between her and the different species we study, particularly with the sperm whales she calls her \u00abGwo Pwasons\u00bb …\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She is capable of analyzing the behavior of the different species that inhabit the waters of the Agoa sanctuary, the French marine protected area where we work, and knows how to observe or interact with them without intrusion, with the utmost respect.<\/p>\n

L\u00e9a is a qualified Agoa sanctuary guide, and has worked as a naturalist guide in the sanctuary. She is particularly sensitive to respectful approaches to cetaceans, both during scientific missions and during cetacean-watching outings organized for tourist groups, so her expertise is very important to our environmental organization.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n \n
\n
\n \"PHOTO-2025-02-03-15-29-06\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

THE TEAM <\/span><\/h1>\n

The deus ex machina<\/span><\/h2> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Manon J.B.\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Community Manager<\/strong><\/p>\n

Manon joined Shelltone Whale Project, guided by her fascination for large cetaceans. Having grown up near the waters of Brittany, she developed a strong bond with nature and marine ecosystems from an early age. This closeness to the sea has nurtured her passion for preserving marine fauna and habitats.<\/p>\n

As Community Manager, Manon is the voice and image of the project. She carefully manages the content of our social networks, sharing captivating stories and inspiring images. Thanks to her work, she encourages a wide public to discover the wonders of the sea through eco-responsible outings in harmony with nature.<\/p>\n

Her dedication makes her an essential pillar of Shelltone Whale Project’s mission: to protect cetaceans and promote a respectful relationship with the marine environment.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n

\n \n
\n
\n \"Manon_JB\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Aur\u00e9lie M.<\/h2>\n

Content Manager \/ Web design<\/strong><\/p>\n

Aur\u00e9lie plays a key role in showcasing the project by managing the content to be presented on the website and designing striking visuals. Thanks to her computer graphics skills, she creates harmonious layouts and visuals that reflect the soul of the project, while capturing the attention of those wishing to get involved in an eco-responsible approach.<\/p>\n

Her sensitivity to the marine environment and her expertise in visual communication make her an essential part of the team, contributing to Shelltone Whale Project’s mission to raise awareness and preserve cetaceans.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n Aurelie's website <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"IMG_7972\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
\n
\n
\n \n
\n
\n

Andr\u00e9 Maszewski<\/h2>\n

Webmaster<\/strong>

The meeting between Andr\u00e9 and Pierre took place during a sailing trip in Guadeloupe, a key moment that sealed a lasting friendship and collaboration. Since that day, Andr\u00e9 has never ceased to support Pierre in the development of his projects, driven by a deep admiration for his vision and commitment. With his technical expertise and passion for innovation, Andr\u00e9 has become a key player in Shelltone Whale Project.<\/p>\n

He is dedicated to the technical management of the website and other tools needed to develop the Shelltone Whale Project. His unwavering commitment and willingness to accompany Pierre on this adventure reflect his attachment to the project and its values.<\/p> <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n

\n
\n \n Andre's website <\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n <\/div>\n
\n \n
\n
\n \"andrze-maszewski-DDM3-1.jpg\" \n <\/div>\n \n \n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

THE SHELLTONE TEAM Discover all the enthusiasts who volunteer their time for the welfare of cetaceans!\u00a0 Behind every operator selected, every destination featured, and every position taken by the Shelltone Whale Project is a team of researchers, naturalists, marine professionals, and passionate individuals united by a shared conviction: respect for cetaceans should be the standard. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11326,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-16","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","has-post-title","has-post-date","has-post-category","has-post-tag","has-post-comment","has-post-author",""],"builder_content":"

THE SHELLTONE TEAM<\/h1>

Discover all the enthusiasts who volunteer their time for the welfare of cetaceans!\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>
Behind every operator selected, every destination featured, and every position taken by the Shelltone Whale Project is a team of researchers, naturalists, marine professionals, and passionate individuals united by a shared conviction: respect for cetaceans should be the standard.<\/h5>
\u00a0<\/h5>
WHY OUR SELECTION MATTERS :\u00a0<\/strong><\/h5>
We do not score operators.<\/h5>
We do not sell visibility.<\/h5>
We do not award certifications.<\/h5>
We simply apply the same standards everywhere in the world.<\/h5>
Our standards are built on decades of field experience, scientific research, and a deep understanding of cetaceans.<\/h5>\n

The Smooth Operators<\/h1>

\u00a0<\/h1>\n\"Photographie\n

Pierre Lavagne de Castellan<\/h2>

Marine Bioacoustician \u00b7 Ethologist \u00b7 Founder & Director of Research<\/strong><\/p>\n

He met his first humpback whale and listened to its song in Hawaii in 1981. Since then, he has sought to establish contact and initiate inter-species communication with them, and music soon became an obvious avenue.<\/p>

He created the non-profit organization Shelltone Whale Project, under the French law of 1901, and obtained public interest recognition for his research in underwater acoustics and his environmental actions in the marine environment.<\/p>

Over a period of two years, at the acoustic research laboratory of the Ecole Centrale de Nantes and at Stanford University in California, he developed the Shelltone, a wind instrument that enables him to play music underwater in the same range as humpback whales.<\/p>

Since then, he has been playing music with humpback whales, first in Maui Hawaii, then in Northern California, but also in Guadeloupe and various other parts of the world.<\/p>

The first underwater musical exchanges between man and cetaceans were born of these experiences.<\/p>

He continues his personal research into inter-species communication, while contributing his expertise in approaching large cetaceans to the Shelltone Whale Project organization.<\/p>\n

Jade Zoghbi<\/h2>

Geographer \u00b7 Associate Director of Research
<\/strong><\/p>\n

Jade completed her doctorate in geography with a focus on the governance of coastal and marine environments, marine protected areas, and the relationship between human activities and the well-being of marine life, particularly humpback whales.
Her research has taken her from the Arctic to the Mediterranean, combining academic work with extensive ethnographic field studies. She graduated from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) and has collaborated with the Arctic Research Center on projects related to marine and coastal governance.
Jade has also worked with the European Commission as an expert on territorial governance and Indigenous knowledge systems. She contributes to several national and international initiatives dedicated to ocean literacy, citizen engagement, and the promotion of more respectful relationships with the marine environment. Passionate about sailing, cultural heritage, and community life, she brings to the Shelltone Whale Project a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges research, conservation, and human connection to the sea.<\/p>\n\"Jade-team-Shelltone-Whale-Project\"\n

Lisa Denning<\/h2>\nLisa Denning is a photographer, videographer, ocean guide and film producer.<\/strong> \u00a0 For over 25 years, she has guided individuals and groups in encounters with dolphins and whales in the water. Lisa is based in Hawaii, where she regularly organizes week-long retreats for people to meet our ocean friends. She also takes groups to Bimini, Bahamas, to swim with dolphins and to the island of Dominica to rub shoulders with sperm whales. As a videographer, her work has been featured in various documentaries, films and magazines. She is co-producer, with Hydee Tehana, of the film OCEAN.

For her, the ocean is home, and she really enjoys putting others in touch with her friends, the dolphins and whales. They call us into the water to be with them, to learn from them and to move towards our greatest joy.<\/p>

To find out more or get in touch with Lisa, visit her website!<\/p>\n Lisa's website <\/a>\n\"Lisa-Denning\"\n

Pierre Robert De Latour<\/h2>\n

Pierre Robert de Latour, founder of USEA and president of the association Orques Sans Fronti\u00e8res.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>

He is known worldwide as \u00abThe Orca Whisperer\u00bb. Author of the best-selling Brother of the orcas<\/em>(Gl\u00e9nat \u00c9dition), he has logged over 7,500 dives with free killer whales, becoming an international reference on their behavior. The first man to dive with killer whales in Arctic waters in a light wetsuit, Pierre has acquired unique expertise on killer whales and 15 other marine mammal species since his first expedition in 1998.<\/p>

Committed to respecting marine wildlife, he has developed responsible methodologies for safe encounters with cetaceans, used by divers and skippers worldwide. Pierre is also the director of Journey to Orca country<\/em> and co-producer of The Orc People<\/em> alongside Captain Paul Watson. His commitment to conservation and awareness-raising has made him a leading figure in marine mammal protection.<\/p>\n See the USEA website <\/a>\n\"Pierre\"\n

Silvia P. Botana<\/h2>

Veterinarian \u2013 Professional diver.<\/strong><\/p>

A veterinarian specializing in exotic and wild animals, she has extensive clinical and ethological experience, focusing on the observation of animal behavior and communication.\u00a0<\/p>

His work aims to promote a respectful relationship between humans and animals, based on reading signals, non-invasive interaction, and respect for the natural rhythms of each species.<\/p>

She has participated in the rescue and rehabilitation of marine mammals in the Gal\u00e1pagos Islands and in sea turtle conservation projects, experiences that have shaped her ethical and practical approach to conservation and fieldwork.<\/p>

A lover of the sea and professional diver, she combines her scientific training with a deep connection to the marine environment.\u00a0<\/p>

From this perspective, she brings a rigorous and conscious approach to whale watching, helping to interpret their behavior and encouraging responsible interactions that always prioritize their well-being.<\/p>\n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @mellamobosque <\/a>\n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @cvgaiteira <\/a>\n\"Silvia-SWP-2\"\n

Norin Chai<\/h2>\n

Wildlife veterinarian<\/strong><\/p>


His career began in Africa, where he managed a national park. After 25 years of working with wildlife, whether in zoos or care centers, he still has the same passion: to care for, or at least relieve, animal suffering. He met Pierre in 2016. When he tells him that, for him, whale songs are like mantras or the \u00abOm\u00bb of Buddhist monks, his words interest him. Whale songs go beyond communication: they heal, they sublimate, they cleanse. Pierre understands this, and his words touch him deeply.<\/p>\n\"Screenshot\"\n

Lori Piano\u00a0<\/h2>\n

Lori is a guide for cetacean-watching expeditions.<\/strong>, She grew up surrounded by animals, and this natural connection with them led her to make it her vocation: first as a top-level horsewoman, then as a wild animal carer, her encounter with free-living cetaceans was a revelation, particularly in terms of sound. She travelled the world for 10 years to study, understand and protect them.<\/p>

For her, it's urgent to reconnect with the primordial harmony between man, nature and animals. She trained as a sports educator specializing in aquatic activities, swimming and relaxation.<\/p>

In 2018, she created \u00abBreathe & Rebreathe Diving\u00bb an eco responsible diving and whale whatching center, which is becoming a Shelltone Whale Project reference, aboard her sailboat C\u00e9tac\u00e9a dedicated to the protection of Mediterranean cetaceans, participatory research and marine bioacoustics.<\/p>

Ren\u00e9 Heuzey's strong commitment to the environment led him to ask her to become an ambassador for \u00abUn Oc\u00e9an de Vie\u00bb in the Provence-Alpes-C\u00f4te d'Azur region.<\/p>

All year round, she offers naturalist outings off the coast of Beaulieu-sur-mer to meet these majestic yet vulnerable creatures.<\/p>\n Lori's website <\/a>\n\"lori_piano\"\n

Dominic Dallaire<\/h2>\n

Emergency doctor - Professional underwater cetacean photographer.<\/strong><\/p>

Born and raised in Saguenay, Quebec, Dominic spent his youth at Cap Bon D\u00e9sir, watching whales in the St. Lawrence River and dreaming of being able to swim with them. In 2014, his dream came true when he swam with Sri Lanka's majestic blue whales for the first time.
Using his talents as a photographer, he immortalizes through his lens the special moments he spends with these giants of the seas, so beloved around the world.<\/p>


Through his photos, he aims to raise public awareness of the importance of protecting marine mammals and their habitats around the world.
His knowledge of the gentle approach to cetaceans makes him an excellent expert for the Shelltone team.<\/p>\n <\/use><\/svg><\/em> @dominicunderwater <\/a>\n\"dmonique_dallaire-1\"\n

Cathy Lacourbas<\/h2>\n

Cathy, a.k.a. \u00abOcean Shieldmaiden\u00bb, has been committed to protecting the oceans since childhood.<\/strong><\/p>

Founder of the association Breach Antilles<\/em> in 2015, it works to raise awareness of cetacean conservation among disadvantaged young people and supports scientific research in bio-acoustics and ethology.

Collaborating with experts such as Dr Nad\u00e8ge Gandilhon and Pr Herv\u00e9 Glotin, she has co-authored studies on humpback whale songs in the Caribbean. A seasoned sailor, Cathy guides and dives with orcas in Norway for ORCA NORWAY and USEA, and shares her passion thanks to her freediving instructor's certificate obtained in 2023.<\/p>

In 2024, his son Robin took up the torch with \u00abDu Fleuve\u00bb, an eco-responsible whale watching base in Quebec, combining passion, hydrophones and the sharing of observations with research institutes. Together, they embody a family commitment to protecting marine mammals and their environment.<\/p>\n\"Cathy\n

L\u00e9a Lavagne de Castellan<\/h2>

Member of the Guadeloupe research team<\/strong><\/p>

L\u00e9a has developed a deep understanding of cetaceans, based on trust and respect, over many years in Guadeloupe's waters.<\/p>

A complicity has developed between her and the different species we study, particularly with the sperm whales she calls her \u00abGwo Pwasons\u00bb ...\u00a0<\/p>

She is capable of analyzing the behavior of the different species that inhabit the waters of the Agoa sanctuary, the French marine protected area where we work, and knows how to observe or interact with them without intrusion, with the utmost respect.<\/p>

L\u00e9a is a qualified Agoa sanctuary guide, and has worked as a naturalist guide in the sanctuary. She is particularly sensitive to respectful approaches to cetaceans, both during scientific missions and during cetacean-watching outings organized for tourist groups, so her expertise is very important to our environmental organization.<\/p>\n\"PHOTO-2025-02-03-15-29-06\"\n

THE TEAM <\/h1>

The deus ex machina<\/h2>\n

Manon J.B.\u00a0<\/h2>

Community Manager<\/strong><\/p>

Manon joined Shelltone Whale Project, guided by her fascination for large cetaceans. Having grown up near the waters of Brittany, she developed a strong bond with nature and marine ecosystems from an early age. This closeness to the sea has nurtured her passion for preserving marine fauna and habitats.<\/p>

As Community Manager, Manon is the voice and image of the project. She carefully manages the content of our social networks, sharing captivating stories and inspiring images. Thanks to her work, she encourages a wide public to discover the wonders of the sea through eco-responsible outings in harmony with nature.<\/p>

Her dedication makes her an essential pillar of Shelltone Whale Project's mission: to protect cetaceans and promote a respectful relationship with the marine environment.<\/p>\n\"Manon_JB\"\n

Aur\u00e9lie M.<\/h2>

Content Manager \/ Web design<\/strong><\/p>

Aur\u00e9lie plays a key role in showcasing the project by managing the content to be presented on the website and designing striking visuals. Thanks to her computer graphics skills, she creates harmonious layouts and visuals that reflect the soul of the project, while capturing the attention of those wishing to get involved in an eco-responsible approach.<\/p>

Her sensitivity to the marine environment and her expertise in visual communication make her an essential part of the team, contributing to Shelltone Whale Project's mission to raise awareness and preserve cetaceans.<\/p>\n Aurelie's website <\/a>\n\"IMG_7972\"\n

Andr\u00e9 Maszewski<\/h2>

Webmaster<\/strong>

The meeting between Andr\u00e9 and Pierre took place during a sailing trip in Guadeloupe, a key moment that sealed a lasting friendship and collaboration. Since that day, Andr\u00e9 has never ceased to support Pierre in the development of his projects, driven by a deep admiration for his vision and commitment. With his technical expertise and passion for innovation, Andr\u00e9 has become a key player in Shelltone Whale Project.<\/p>

He is dedicated to the technical management of the website and other tools needed to develop the Shelltone Whale Project. His unwavering commitment and willingness to accompany Pierre on this adventure reflect his attachment to the project and its values.<\/p>\n Andre's website <\/a>\n\"andrze-maszewski-DDM3-1.jpg\"","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16"}],"version-history":[{"count":97,"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11742,"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/16\/revisions\/11742"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11326"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.shelltonewhaleproject.org\/fr\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}