The people behind Sail for Seas
Sail for Seas is supported by people who use their experience, knowledge and enthusiasm for a common goal: to make the sea understandable, tangible and worth protecting.
As an interdisciplinary team, we combine education, understanding of nature, seamanship, technology, and entrepreneurial experience. Together, we are developing Sail for Seas into a professional education and marine conservation platform – both at sea and on land.
Founded out of conviction
The idea for Sail for Seas arose from a deep connection with nature and the desire not only to watch, but to take responsibility oneself.
Piroschka Maranda and Michael Stirnimann have experienced firsthand in diverse habitats how valuable and yet vulnerable our natural ecosystems are. Their experiences in education, nature and marine conservation, and at sea led to a shared vision: to use a sailing ship as a mobile platform connecting people, knowledge, and organizations.
From this vision, the association Sail for Seas – Education & Conservation was founded on October 12, 2025.
Today, a dedicated core team is working to build the platform, develop educational programs, support scientific partners, and establish long-term collaborations.
Our core team
The board of directors bears the strategic and organizational responsibility for the association and ensures that the funds are used in accordance with the association's purpose.
Piroschka Maranda
Founder - President - Skipper
Michael Stirnimann
Founder - Vice President - Skipper
Margrit Tsuma-Zimmermann
Founder - Cashier
Stefan Brändle
Consultant - Skipper
Piroschka Maranda
Founder and President
Education, project development and communication
Piroschka combines pedagogical experience with sound economic knowledge and a lifelong passion for the oceans. She studied Management & Economics, is a certified primary school teacher, and a divemaster. Her experience in marine and shark conservation programs has shaped her desire to raise awareness of marine habitats through direct experience.
At Sail for Seas, she is primarily responsible for educational programs, project development, partnerships, and communication.
Personal motivation
"I want to share my lifelong fascination with the sea. Education is the key – because knowledge and experiences create a connection and the desire to protect our oceans."
Michael Stirnimann
Founder and Vice President
Platform, infrastructure and operational implementation
Michael is a forestry foreman and brings extensive practical, technical, and organizational experience. A responsible approach to natural habitats shapes his professional work as well as his involvement with Sail for Seas.
As an experienced skipper, he is responsible for the nautical and technical preparation of the platform. His focus is on safety, infrastructure, and reliable operations.
Personal motivation
"I want to use my craftsmanship and maritime experience to create a safe and reliable platform where we can dedicate ourselves to protecting the oceans."
Together, we create impact.
Sail for Seas thrives on diverse perspectives and strong partnerships. We collaborate with educational institutions, scientific agencies, marine conservation organizations, businesses, and dedicated individuals.
Effective marine conservation arises where knowledge is shared, experiences are made possible, and responsibility is shared.
Would you like to contribute your experience, knowledge, or network?
Then we look forward to hearing from you.