Q & A with our Farm Manager, Charlie

Have you ever wondered where Sanctuary Oysters come from? Within the heart of the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve in Baja California, we cultivate and deliver our oysters from seed to plate Our sea farm operates in an untouched and idyllic place far away from modern civilization. A place where many biological wonders thrive, including nursery pods of grey whales. For more than 20 years, we’ve been committed to the best growing techniques and most responsible farming practices. So let’s find out what makes sea Sanctuary Oysters truly special with our farm manager Charlie.

How did you become Sanctuary Oysters’ farm manager?

I have been interested in aquaculture ever since I was very young. I met Philippe back in 1995, when we shared a day sailing. On that special day, we didn't talk about his project to grow oysters. However, a year later, I heard from a mutual friend that the construction of the farm was about to begin. I made contact with Philippe and he invited me to visit Baja California to learn about the project. Within a few days, I left my apartment, packed my bags, my dog Frida and drove to Baja. The day after I arrived, we traveled  to the San Ignacio Lagoon, the site selected to build the farm. Everything was already decided on my part. What followed was 23 years of passion for oysters and for the environment where they grow.

What does a normal day at the farm look like?

I think there is no normal day at the farm. Every day is extraordinary. Everything starts very early and with lots of movement. There are people working with oysters at different stages and areas at the farm. People are busy grading oysters, others are on boats taking them to the growing fields, some are harvesting and others are performing the final selection and packaging. When the tide goes down, the work is done in the growing field. Then, all the activities to keep our oysters in the best conditions are performed. The day ends when the tide is in or the sun has set.

What’s your favorite thing about the farm?

Walking the oyster fields when the tide is low is my favorite part of the day. It is a natural environment of tremendous beauty. Being able to observe the growth of oysters in this extremely clean and wild environment is the best part of farm work.

What do you think makes Sanctuary Oysters special?

Cultivation in a natural environment that has not undergone any changes. The conditions provided by the location gives our oyster a unique, briny and succulent taste. Together with the passion and hard work of our people we are able to consistently deliver these treasured oysters.

What makes the Sanctuary Oysters sea farm different than other farms?

Our Sanctuary Oysters sea farm is unique because it is located in the heart of the El Vizcaino biosphere reserve. It is an untouched and idyllic place far away from modern civilization where oysters can thrive. It takes a team of passionate and committed individuals to work and live in such a remote location. The partnership between mother nature and our people helps us provide the highest quality oysters while maintaining the environment’s natural condition. 

Would you like to learn even more about our sea farm? Send us an email please at info@solazul.com.mx.