Our Team
Filipa Azevedo Coutinho
Filipa holds a degree in foreign affairs from NOVA University and has over 15 years of work experience with prestigious organizations such as National Geographic, Amnesty International and IYPE UNESCO. Filipa is fluent in Portuguese and English, and possesses a solid understanding of Spanish and Italian.
She does independent work for various companies and private clients, to help them level up their communications and digital presence, and serving as the Vice-President of The Explorers Club Portugal Chapter.
Filipa started travelling in 1996 and has many adventures in her pocket. From exploring remote areas such as Svalbard to diving with whale sharks in Nosy Be (Madagascar), she can never be to far away from the ocean.
Her passions lie in exploration, science communication, and digital minimalism.
Ricardo A. Nascimento
Ricardo A. Nascimento is an accomplished expedition leader and underwater cinematographer with a deep passion for the ocean's wonders. With over 20 years of freediving experience and a career spanning more than a decade, Ricardo has filmed in over 20 countries, capturing breath-taking moments with the ocean's mega fauna, including blue whales, orcas, humpback whales, sharks, and more.
His intimate understanding of large marine animal behaviour enhances his ability to scout remote locations and create stunning underwater cinematography. A certified AIDA 3 Advanced Freediver and PADI Rescue Diver, Ricardo combines technical expertise with artistic vision to bring marine ecosystems to life on screen.
From leading underwater expeditions across continents to collaborating with renowned brands like Red Bull and Lexus, Ricardo uses his storytelling to inspire love and advocacy for ocean conservation. His ultimate mission is to connect people with the beauty and fragility of marine life, fostering a deeper commitment to protect our blue planet.
Luís Dias
Well versed in adventures high above the polar circle, Luís is a wildlife and nature photographer who is based in northern Norway.
With a background in Marine Biology, Fisheries and Marketing Tourism, he combines academic expertise with hands-on experience in the field. As an ocean skipper and whale-watching captain, Luís is deeply connected to the marine environment.
He is also an accomplished nature and underwater photographer, dedicated birdwatcher, and experienced travel and tourism consultant. In academia, he served as a professor at the University of Madeira and contributed to research in collaboration with the University of the Azores and the University of Algarve.
Through his involvement with nature based tourism companies, focused in Whale Watching and Birdwatching, Luís continues to inspire a deeper connection to nature through science, education, and exploration.
João Birg
A biology graduate and adventurer, Birg has over 14 years' experience in sustainable fieldwork, camping and trekking survival techniques.
With a strong aptitude for guiding groups, he has participated in several expeditions since he was 17, developing a solid ethic of sustainability, minimalism and total connection with nature.
Every trip is a unique experience, and his focus is on creating challenging memories, prioritizing zero footprint and respect the natural environment.
On expeditions guided by Birg you will explore remote locations with confidence, safety and a grand spirit of adventure.