The CIMASUB Francisco Pizarro Award 2025 was presented to the MATER Ecoactive Museum Ship in recognition of its exemplary work in environmental education, marine outreach, and the protection of Basque maritime heritage.
The MATER, the last large wooden tuna boat on our coast, was rescued from scrapping and transformed into a living museum ship. From its base in Pasaia, it combines heritage conservation with intensive awareness-raising work: guided tours, workshops, sea trips, and citizen science campaigns that bring the reality of the ocean closer to thousands of people every year.
Its team also promotes numerous environmental initiatives, such as actions against marine litter and educational collaborations, and actively participates in CIMASUB's Txikiziklo Submarino, bringing the marine world closer to young people.
With this award, CIMASUB recognizes a consistent, courageous, and deeply inspiring track record. MATER represents the spirit of the award: combining knowledge, passion for the sea, and social action to build a more conscious and respectful relationship with our oceans.
Francisco Pizarro Special Award · Cimasub 2025
The CIMASUB Francisco Pizarro Award 2025 was presented to the MATER Ecoactive Museum Ship in recognition of its exemplary work in environmental education, marine outreach, and the protection of Basque maritime heritage.
The MATER, the last large wooden tuna boat on our coast, was rescued from scrapping and transformed into a living museum ship. From its base in Pasaia, it combines heritage conservation with intensive awareness-raising work: guided tours, workshops, sea trips, and citizen science campaigns that bring the reality of the ocean closer to thousands of people every year.
Its team also promotes numerous environmental initiatives, such as actions against marine litter and educational collaborations, and actively participates in CIMASUB's Txikiziklo Submarino, bringing the marine world closer to young people.
With this award, CIMASUB recognizes a consistent, courageous, and deeply inspiring track record. MATER represents the spirit of the award: combining knowledge, passion for the sea, and social action to build a more conscious and respectful relationship with our oceans.
