Carnival Cruise Line has donated more than 1,000 towels to children learning to swim in Vanuatu, the company said in a statement. 

Since this island nation has the world’s fourth‑highest drowning rate, the cruise line is providing funding for swimming lessons through the guest-funded Pacific Partnerships program.

“Carnival guests love visiting Vanuatu, and this towel donation is one way we can give back to the community who warmly welcomes our ships throughout the year,” said Carnival’s vice president external affairs Sandy Olsen.

Carnival Adventure crew members, including Hotel Director Bas van Es, Food & Beverage Director Larisa Rose and Environmental Officer Rado Lyubenov, delivered the new beach towels during their visit to Port Vila on Sunday, March 29.

Busi Neill from the Paradise Swim and Arts Academy accepted the towels, which will be handed out during her swimming lessons throughout the year.

The Academy aims to teach 600 children to swim this year, and classes are now underway.