There is no better way to learn about the ocean than living on a sailboat with a marine biologist, dive professional and sailing instructor. Join a crew of friends to embark on a voyage across the Caribbean.
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| PROGRAM DATES | COST | AVAILABILITY | |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 14 - June 30, 2024 | $6,480 | Available | Enroll Now |
| July 3 - July 19, 2024 | $6,480 | Available | Enroll Now |
| July 22 - August 7, 2024 | $6,480 | Available | Enroll Now |
*Currently accepting applications from alumni families only. Open enrollment begins September 15, 2023. To join the waitlist prior to open enrollment, click “enroll now”; your payment method will not be charged until the open enrollment period begins.
“This trip was absolutely amazing. From the start you are able to quickly make friends that will soon grow into really strong friendships. The meals are delicious, the activities all tailored toward your group and your personal preferences. I learned more than I ever knew before about the ocean and marine biology, sailing and scuba diving. Take advantage of every opportunity the leaders offer you and don’t be afraid to really take a leap and try something new. This trip was an absolutely once in a lifetime experience and will be one I will carry with me and impact me for the rest of my life.” Megan, high school alumna
Two natural science credits available through Lesley University.
Course description: This course explores topics in marine science through the examination of biological, physical and chemical composition of marine communities. Coursework consists of both academic discussions and hands-on field research. Learn common research techniques and equipment used by marine biologist.
Course objectives:
Two PADI scuba certifications available:
Five hours of service learning through projects that support conservation efforts with the local parks.
One sailing certification available:
Requirements:
Step aboard and prepare for the journey of a lifetime! Rise with the sun and share in the responsibility of maintaining your floating classroom. Over the next two and a half weeks you will serve as the skipper, first mate, navigator, dive safety officer and chef for this journey. Waste no time jumping into the turquoise water to learn how to scuba dive, or have a quick refresher if you’re already certified. Learn fundamental sailing skills while discussing the geology and natural history of the Leeward Islands on your sail to Ile Fourche. Initial lessons focus on fish ID, coral reef ecology and the interactions between different marine ecosystems. A sunset hike to the top of Ile Fourche’s rocky peaks gives you a view of mountainous islands in the distance – Saba, Statia, and St. Barts – all waiting to be discovered.
After an early morning wakeboard session, make the short hop over to the St. Barts Marine Reserve. Find an abundance of marine life and the ideal environment to begin studying marine animal behavior and interaction, such as schooling and pairing, predation and predator avoidance, nesting verses territorial behaviors and more. Take a break to explore the capital of Gustavia and sample its delicious homemade ice cream and crepe desserts. After a little bodysurfing, investigate the water beneath the breaking waves and how the ocean’s movement affects nearby reef systems. Learn about the delicate balance required to sustain healthy coral reefs, then dive below to map the diversity and abundance of fish and coral species on Pain-du-Sucre, Castlemount and Rockefeller Point.
Sail to Statia to find a thriving marine park, healthy reefs and a growing artificial reef system. After a discussion with local stakeholders about marine resource management and the success of the Statia Marine Park, spend an afternoon doing marine service projects to help the reserve’s efforts. Wrap up with a hike to the top of the Quill and into the crater of this dormant volcano now blanketed in lush rainforest.
Spend your final days on the magical island of Saba. The waters surrounding the island are protected by the Saba Marine Park, providing you with an extraordinary underwater classroom of reef formations and the greatest biodiversity in the Caribbean. Round out your studies with discussions on life cycles, symbiotic relationships, morphology and current exchange. In the water, collect data on different types of habitats surrounding the pinnacles, walls and patch reefs of Man-O-War Shoals, Tent Reef Deep and Hot Springs. Before returning home, hike through the rainforest and into the clouds to the top of Mt. Scenery. Your journey ends on the deserted island of Tintamarre, celebrating your achievements and adventures together.
