Moneron Island, Marine natural park in Sakhalin Oblast, Russia.
Moneron Island is a protected marine area located about 41 nautical miles from Nevelsk port in the Sea of Japan. The island measures roughly 7 kilometers long and 5 kilometers wide, featuring rocky terrain and coastal habitats.
French navigator La Perouse named the island after Paul Mérault Monneron during his expedition in the 18th century. Russian hydrographers later conducted detailed surveys and created the first accurate map of the area.
The Ainu people, the island's original inhabitants, named it Todomoshiri, reflecting their deep connection to the sea and island life in this region. The name carries memories of generations who lived by fishing and gathering in these waters.
The island is best reached from Nevelsk port, which has regular bus connections from Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. A boat crossing is necessary, and visitors should plan travel during calm weather conditions.
The waters surrounding the island host the only population of abalone shellfish found anywhere in Russian territory. These rare marine mollusks have adapted to the cold conditions of the Sea of Japan and are seldom seen by visitors.
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