Carnival Corporation’s newest brand, Fathom, returned from a successful inaugural voyage on Sunday. Their first destination ever was the Dominican Republic, and hundreds of guests joined the cruise line for the impactful weeklong journey.
Fathom chose the Dominican Republic as their first impact destination because of the great beauty and great needs of the country. Over 3 million Dominicans don’t have access to piped water, and the average household income is less than $6,000. In less than a week, Fathom and their guests made a great first impact, including:
English Conversation & Learning
- impact: almost 650 students and members of the community participated in foreign language interaction with native English speakers
- why it matters: English proficiency is the largest driver of employment success in the Dominican economy
Reforestation & Nursery
- impact: planted over 2,400 trees
- why it matters: in time this will lead to more nutrient-rich soil, improved air quality, reduction in soil loss, an increase in localized biodiversity, and higher crop yields
Water Filter Production
- impact: produced 50 water filters
- why it matters: in the Dominican Republic, millions of people don’t have access to piped water. This access provides a reduction in waterborne illness, and indirect benefits include better work and school attendance.
Cacao & Women’s Chocolate Cooperative
- impact: cleaned over 200 pounds of cacao nibs and wrapped more than 6,000 chocolate bars
- why it matters: by helping improve production and increase sales, the organization can hire more local women, and provide critical income for the region
Recycled Paper & Crafts Entrepreneurship
- impact: almost 600 sheets of paper produced
- why it matters: volunteers’ support helps provide income to the women, improve morale, and allow them to expand their business
Concrete Floors in Community Homes
- impact: poured concrete floors for two homes, effecting 20 people
- why it matters: in the homes of poorer areas, the common dirt floors are a health risk. The new floors provide a safer and healthier environment for families.
Leisure Time
When Fathom guests weren’t working on impact projects, there was plenty of fun to be had in the Dominican Republic. They interacted with marine life in the water, explored ancient ruins, and lounged around on the beach. In Amber Cove, where the Adonia was docked, guests also had access to different shore excursions, including kayaking, snorkeling, ATV-like expeditions, horseback riding, helicopter rides, fishing trips, and more.
On the return trip, Fathom helped their guests with ways they can stay involved by bringing awareness, knowledge, and inspiration back to their home communities.
Prices for Dominican Republic sailings aboard Fathom start at $974 per person, and will vary by season
