Author: Calder
Location: Rio Napo, Amazon
I don't even know where to begin, frankly. We did so much today, and witnessed so much, it's hard to decipher a method of description capable of summing up the day. I shall try my hardest, of course, but no promises.
We woke early (roughly six, on average) so as to catch a hearty breakfast before setting out for the day's most muscle-based work. Hector, our companion, took us downriver on the Napo (a primary tributary of the Amazon) to a small facility where he had gathered over 200 large, spiky palm-fronds. They were spread out through the rainforest quite close to where they had been cut down, and we proceeded to carry them to the canoe we landed in-through a muddy rainforest, which was primarily composed of hilly terrain. Describing the challenge of toting even one palm-frond through that environment to the shoreline is hard without physically showing the labor, especially when you consider a typical frond is roughly fourteen or fifteen feet in length. But for us, one frond was no challenge; two or three quickly became the minimum. Our accomplishments were incredible, especially considering the muddy terrain. Not only did we manage to complete the established task, but there was also a large degree of fortitude present in the connection in between all of us-whenever anyone fell, there seemed to be a hand waiting to help them up immediately.
This work lasted a good time, but we still finished with time to spare, and took our load down to Sumak Allpa ('Heaven' in the old-Incan tongue) and began unloading it. At this time, we began the work that would last the remainder of the day...but not before we met the students (14 in total) who went to the school on Sumak Allpa (it doubles as a school and a breeding/rehabilitation center for endangered monkeys). The average age among them was probably about six or seven (regardless, they trounced us in a game of soccer after lunch), and they were already quite proficient in their studies-enough to make the U.S. System consider its methodology.
After the introductions, we began to dismantle (if that is the proper word) the fronds. With utilization of a machete, one can cut them to the right dimensions, and then-with peculiar care and softness, considering the nature of the machete itself-cut lines in the leaves of the frond. This loosens them, and allows them to be curved backward into a suitable position for weaving (the reason we were weaving will be fully explained later). It is hard, but satisfying, work; it took up a good deal of time before and after lunch, but seeing its final use was extremely rewarding; the fronds were then woven into a roof for a mess hall in the school. Knowing we'd essentially created this roof solely by our efforts, was one of the ...it was a wonderful feeling, to say the least. I will not ramble; I hope I am no Polonius.
Eventually, when our work was done, we returned home, with fond memories of the day's labor (regardless of how hard it was). We were welcomed by rest, and-well, I do not know about the rest of us, but I made the acquaintance of the finest shower I have ever...it was a fantastic shower, anyhow. Not soon after, we dined on a delicious meal of soup, chicken, cucumber, rice, broccoli, and potatoes. Food here is unthinkably scrumptious.
Like everyone else, I think I will retire now-time marches on, yes? With thoughts of Danielle and the Homestead, I am eagerly awaiting tomorrow's activities. Night everyone!
(P.S. As I mentioned briefly before, we played the local students in soccer. We were obliterated...how Ecuador does not take the World Cup annually with those children alone is inexplicable to me.)
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Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Day 15
Author: Garrett S.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
As of today we are in the last week of our voyage and to celebrate this fact we climbed to the top of the highest point in the Virgin Islands, Mount Sage. After our tiring climb we enjoyed some well deserved cheeseburgers and ice cold sodas. We then traveled to Sandy Spit for a sand castle building competition and enjoyed rice and beans for dinner.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
As of today we are in the last week of our voyage and to celebrate this fact we climbed to the top of the highest point in the Virgin Islands, Mount Sage. After our tiring climb we enjoyed some well deserved cheeseburgers and ice cold sodas. We then traveled to Sandy Spit for a sand castle building competition and enjoyed rice and beans for dinner.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 15
Author: Denny M.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we started early with a 5:45 wakeup and speedy cereal breakfast. We then were shuttled onto the docks where we started our hike to the highest point in the Caribbean with a breathtaking view over the BVI. After our trek we all enjoyed a meal at the ocean side restaurant in Cane Garden Bay. Once everyone was finished with lunch and shopping at the local supermarket the AQ fleet cruised over to a little sandy island where we began construction on our sand castle masterpieces. The Serenity crew constructed a sculpture of our skipper (Mitch), as well as a temple for Rosy (our first mate). We ended the day with an awesome franks and beans dinner and are about to have a Lifeworks meeting. It was a good day for the Serenity crew and the unhappy countdown to the end of our trip is beginning.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we started early with a 5:45 wakeup and speedy cereal breakfast. We then were shuttled onto the docks where we started our hike to the highest point in the Caribbean with a breathtaking view over the BVI. After our trek we all enjoyed a meal at the ocean side restaurant in Cane Garden Bay. Once everyone was finished with lunch and shopping at the local supermarket the AQ fleet cruised over to a little sandy island where we began construction on our sand castle masterpieces. The Serenity crew constructed a sculpture of our skipper (Mitch), as well as a temple for Rosy (our first mate). We ended the day with an awesome franks and beans dinner and are about to have a Lifeworks meeting. It was a good day for the Serenity crew and the unhappy countdown to the end of our trip is beginning.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 15
Author: Marshall W.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we woke up bright and early for our hike to Mount Sage National Park, the highest point in the Virgin Islands. It was a tough hike, but the views on the way up were pretty rewarding. It rained briefly on the way to the peak, which was much appreciated. After the hike we had our sand castle building competition. We built a pretty awesome castle, but it only came in third. It's all good though, because it was pretty fun. Right before dinner our windlass malfunctioned, so we had people running around all through dinner. This was a very exciting day, despite the intenseness of it and how tired we all are.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we woke up bright and early for our hike to Mount Sage National Park, the highest point in the Virgin Islands. It was a tough hike, but the views on the way up were pretty rewarding. It rained briefly on the way to the peak, which was much appreciated. After the hike we had our sand castle building competition. We built a pretty awesome castle, but it only came in third. It's all good though, because it was pretty fun. Right before dinner our windlass malfunctioned, so we had people running around all through dinner. This was a very exciting day, despite the intenseness of it and how tired we all are.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 15
Author: Chandler B.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was a long but rewarding day. We all woke up early at around 6 to go on a hike up Mt. Sage, the tallest point in the Virgin Islands. The hike was about 7 miles and all uphill. Even though the hike up was grueling, the view from the top was beautiful. After the hike we ate lunch in town and had some free time to shop around. We then sailed over to a small sandy island and the boats had a sand castle building contest. Our boat built a Stonehenge inspired sculpture.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was a long but rewarding day. We all woke up early at around 6 to go on a hike up Mt. Sage, the tallest point in the Virgin Islands. The hike was about 7 miles and all uphill. Even though the hike up was grueling, the view from the top was beautiful. After the hike we ate lunch in town and had some free time to shop around. We then sailed over to a small sandy island and the boats had a sand castle building contest. Our boat built a Stonehenge inspired sculpture.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 15
Author: Tenzin L.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was a very challenging day but also very rewarding. We were all woken up early by the beautiful Coco and not "The British are coming" by Kai. As we consumed tons of cereal and milk we all thought of the hike up and down Mount Sage, the highest point in the Virgin Islands. Once cleanup was over we all got our professional hiking shoes and our minds were set on the delicious food that awaited us once the seven mile hike was over. We then hopped onto Azul, Pine's best and only dinghy, and arrived at the dock. At the dock all the students from ActionQuest and Lifeworks listened to Mike's speech on instructions on how to mike the mountain. The mountain was very steep; some parts seemed like they were literally 90 degrees up. Despite all the sweat we all perspired and all the water we consumed, we all reached the top. The view of the island's green land, blue ocean, and tan sand was worth it all. The hike down the mountain was extremely easy. Psych! I thought it was harder than the hike up. Overall we came down the mountain with body builder's muscles. So parents, expect some changes when your kids come home. LOL. JK. After the hike we all either treated to the cheeseburger restaurant known by Jimmy Buffet's fans for being the place where he wrote his famous cheeseburger song. Or for those who weren't a fan of his went to all the cool restaurants that were nearby. All of the fast food seemed gourmet to us. Then we walked around the town and visited the souvenir shops. Others waited on the dock for the magical school bus to pick us up for our field trips. Nah, I'm just kidding. We just rode the dinghies back to our boat. When we got back the Pine students took a fun shower in the ocean. No matter how many times we put on conditioner our hair felt salty. But we live the hard life of a sailor so we deal with it all. Afterwards the chefs made a delicious dinner of franks and beans. We also had a sand castle contest. I hope you, parents, enjoyed this log. I sure had fun writing it, despite the wind and the water getting in my way. But I have to go do a Lifeworks activity now. I hope it is fun, toodles. P.S. Parents, your kids are having loads of fun. And mothers, you shouldn't worry :-)
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was a very challenging day but also very rewarding. We were all woken up early by the beautiful Coco and not "The British are coming" by Kai. As we consumed tons of cereal and milk we all thought of the hike up and down Mount Sage, the highest point in the Virgin Islands. Once cleanup was over we all got our professional hiking shoes and our minds were set on the delicious food that awaited us once the seven mile hike was over. We then hopped onto Azul, Pine's best and only dinghy, and arrived at the dock. At the dock all the students from ActionQuest and Lifeworks listened to Mike's speech on instructions on how to mike the mountain. The mountain was very steep; some parts seemed like they were literally 90 degrees up. Despite all the sweat we all perspired and all the water we consumed, we all reached the top. The view of the island's green land, blue ocean, and tan sand was worth it all. The hike down the mountain was extremely easy. Psych! I thought it was harder than the hike up. Overall we came down the mountain with body builder's muscles. So parents, expect some changes when your kids come home. LOL. JK. After the hike we all either treated to the cheeseburger restaurant known by Jimmy Buffet's fans for being the place where he wrote his famous cheeseburger song. Or for those who weren't a fan of his went to all the cool restaurants that were nearby. All of the fast food seemed gourmet to us. Then we walked around the town and visited the souvenir shops. Others waited on the dock for the magical school bus to pick us up for our field trips. Nah, I'm just kidding. We just rode the dinghies back to our boat. When we got back the Pine students took a fun shower in the ocean. No matter how many times we put on conditioner our hair felt salty. But we live the hard life of a sailor so we deal with it all. Afterwards the chefs made a delicious dinner of franks and beans. We also had a sand castle contest. I hope you, parents, enjoyed this log. I sure had fun writing it, despite the wind and the water getting in my way. But I have to go do a Lifeworks activity now. I hope it is fun, toodles. P.S. Parents, your kids are having loads of fun. And mothers, you shouldn't worry :-)
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 15
Author: Chloe O.
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was the absolute best day of the program. I loved it. We had an early morning today, which started at 5:45. We hiked Mt. Sage, the tallest point in the US and British Virgin Islands. We hiked a total of five miles. It was great. An awesome workout. The cheeseburgers in paradise place was awesome. Everything was so beautiful and completely surreal. The locals were really nice and it felt so good to get to the top! Yeah! We even got to compete in a sand castle contest after the cheeseburgers. We made a cupcake to represent our dinghy, whose name is cupcake. We gave it ripples out of palm fronds, a candle out of a rock, oars, and an engine. And guess who won the contest? Cedar! Woohoo!!
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today was the absolute best day of the program. I loved it. We had an early morning today, which started at 5:45. We hiked Mt. Sage, the tallest point in the US and British Virgin Islands. We hiked a total of five miles. It was great. An awesome workout. The cheeseburgers in paradise place was awesome. Everything was so beautiful and completely surreal. The locals were really nice and it felt so good to get to the top! Yeah! We even got to compete in a sand castle contest after the cheeseburgers. We made a cupcake to represent our dinghy, whose name is cupcake. We gave it ripples out of palm fronds, a candle out of a rock, oars, and an engine. And guess who won the contest? Cedar! Woohoo!!
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Day 15
Author: Hailey
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we woke up at 5:45am for a quick breakfast of cereal before the days activities. We needed to wake up so early because the entire ActionQuest fleet was hiking to the highest point in the BVI's, but before we all got to the national park at the top we had to hike across the island. We all didn't start the hike until 7:45am. The first hill seemed to be at a 60 degree angle, but the view at the top kept us going. Alex, Tina, Christian, Cowie, Maren and Caitlin lead our boat to the top. Alex and Tina were actually the first girls from dive side to make it to the top. The group did really well and almost 100% of us made it to the top, which for the extreme level of physical and mental strength this hike required, is very impressive. We all enjoyed a nice afternoon in Cane Garden Bay. Once back on the boat we sailed to Sandy Spit, where we all had a sand castle contest. The Alexandra made a big Chinese character meaning water: all the staff members were really impressed. We're sitting down at a dinner of beans and rice, and franks. We will all sleep well tonight with dreams of the beautiful views of the islands we saw today.
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Location: Sandy Spit, Green Cay
Today we woke up at 5:45am for a quick breakfast of cereal before the days activities. We needed to wake up so early because the entire ActionQuest fleet was hiking to the highest point in the BVI's, but before we all got to the national park at the top we had to hike across the island. We all didn't start the hike until 7:45am. The first hill seemed to be at a 60 degree angle, but the view at the top kept us going. Alex, Tina, Christian, Cowie, Maren and Caitlin lead our boat to the top. Alex and Tina were actually the first girls from dive side to make it to the top. The group did really well and almost 100% of us made it to the top, which for the extreme level of physical and mental strength this hike required, is very impressive. We all enjoyed a nice afternoon in Cane Garden Bay. Once back on the boat we sailed to Sandy Spit, where we all had a sand castle contest. The Alexandra made a big Chinese character meaning water: all the staff members were really impressed. We're sitting down at a dinner of beans and rice, and franks. We will all sleep well tonight with dreams of the beautiful views of the islands we saw today.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Co-co-nut
Author: Spencer Flores
Location: Koh Chang, Thailand
Today started again at midnight because we were still underway. The ocean was calm but sadly the wind was calmer. We ended up motoring the rest of the way to Koh Chang. After a quick satisfying bowl of cereal, we finally made anchor. A quick swim led into a monstrous BA or boat appreciation. We worked hard to make Argo shine as bright as the North Star. We had a lunch of tuna and pbandj sandwiches. After that was a day of relaxation. Most of us went to shore where there was an amazing beach and a place to get much needed sweets and junk food. We all went our separate ways on shore but couldn't help but to return to our safe haven of soda and ice cream. When the time came, we all had to return to the shining Argo. Some brought back coconuts or as Rory likes to call them "co-co-nuts." It was fun watching Tommy try to hack his way into the sweet fruit. We all took normal salt water showers and sat down for the squeeze question and then enjoyed an awesome dinner. Now that this day is winding down we all look forward for the good times to come.
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Location: Koh Chang, Thailand
Today started again at midnight because we were still underway. The ocean was calm but sadly the wind was calmer. We ended up motoring the rest of the way to Koh Chang. After a quick satisfying bowl of cereal, we finally made anchor. A quick swim led into a monstrous BA or boat appreciation. We worked hard to make Argo shine as bright as the North Star. We had a lunch of tuna and pbandj sandwiches. After that was a day of relaxation. Most of us went to shore where there was an amazing beach and a place to get much needed sweets and junk food. We all went our separate ways on shore but couldn't help but to return to our safe haven of soda and ice cream. When the time came, we all had to return to the shining Argo. Some brought back coconuts or as Rory likes to call them "co-co-nuts." It was fun watching Tommy try to hack his way into the sweet fruit. We all took normal salt water showers and sat down for the squeeze question and then enjoyed an awesome dinner. Now that this day is winding down we all look forward for the good times to come.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Monday, June 29, 2009
To the Amazon!
Author: Megan
Location: Quito to the Amazon
We woke up early to get on our 30 minute flight to the Amazon. When we stepped off the flight the humidity immediately hit us. The windy bus ride to Coca, where I accidentally spilled juice on the man next to me, was an hour long and very scenic. Once we arrived in Coca and met Hector we got our boots fitted and hopped on a 45 minute canoe ride to the Yarina Lodge. We then got into our cabins and left to Hector's island for a hike through the rain forest. The hike was very beautiful but I missed most of it because of all the insects that were attacking me. After we got out of the rainforest we went back to the lodge, had an amazing dinner, put our mosquito nets down and had a goodnight sleep.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Quito to the Amazon
We woke up early to get on our 30 minute flight to the Amazon. When we stepped off the flight the humidity immediately hit us. The windy bus ride to Coca, where I accidentally spilled juice on the man next to me, was an hour long and very scenic. Once we arrived in Coca and met Hector we got our boots fitted and hopped on a 45 minute canoe ride to the Yarina Lodge. We then got into our cabins and left to Hector's island for a hike through the rain forest. The hike was very beautiful but I missed most of it because of all the insects that were attacking me. After we got out of the rainforest we went back to the lodge, had an amazing dinner, put our mosquito nets down and had a goodnight sleep.
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Day 14
Author: Nastassia
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was our last rotation day here on our ActionQuest adventure. It was especially exciting for us, however, because it included our very last open water dive, entitling us official PADI open water divers! After finishing our last rotation of the day we sailed downwind to Cane Garden Bay, where we are anchored for the night. After dinner we had another sail chat, where we've been preparing for our tests and practicals that will give us our IYT certifications.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was our last rotation day here on our ActionQuest adventure. It was especially exciting for us, however, because it included our very last open water dive, entitling us official PADI open water divers! After finishing our last rotation of the day we sailed downwind to Cane Garden Bay, where we are anchored for the night. After dinner we had another sail chat, where we've been preparing for our tests and practicals that will give us our IYT certifications.
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Day 14
Author: Claire M.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today, after we woke up, we sailed to Muskmelon Bay and started our rotation day. First we learned how to make Turk's Head bracelets/anklets. Next we sailed Picos for the last time in the BVI. After Picoing we learned about ships systems and heard many outrageous stories about plumbing systems gone wrong. Then we waterskiied and wakeboarded until lunch. After lunch we went on our last scuba dive as uncertified divers. We ended the day by sailing to Cane Garden Bay.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today, after we woke up, we sailed to Muskmelon Bay and started our rotation day. First we learned how to make Turk's Head bracelets/anklets. Next we sailed Picos for the last time in the BVI. After Picoing we learned about ships systems and heard many outrageous stories about plumbing systems gone wrong. Then we waterskiied and wakeboarded until lunch. After lunch we went on our last scuba dive as uncertified divers. We ended the day by sailing to Cane Garden Bay.
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Day 14
Author: Delaney S.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was the last rotation day :-( We waterskiied and wakeboarded, made some bracelets/anklets, Picoed, and learned about the ship's systems. Today was a long day but we ended it by becoming certified open water scuba divers! I think all of us are very excited to be real divers now. The next week is going to go by soooo fast. Pretty soon we are going to have to say goodbye to the clear blue oceans and the beautiful islands. I'm so not ready to leave so I'm going to make this last, I'm not going to blink and I'm going to savor all my time I have left.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was the last rotation day :-( We waterskiied and wakeboarded, made some bracelets/anklets, Picoed, and learned about the ship's systems. Today was a long day but we ended it by becoming certified open water scuba divers! I think all of us are very excited to be real divers now. The next week is going to go by soooo fast. Pretty soon we are going to have to say goodbye to the clear blue oceans and the beautiful islands. I'm so not ready to leave so I'm going to make this last, I'm not going to blink and I'm going to savor all my time I have left.
Flickr Photos from Today
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360 Horizon
Author: Renee Geary
Location: Underway in the Gulf of Thailand
Today started early, watch teams were out at the stroke of midnight. When day broke we saw the 360 horizon and water all around. Since we are underway we had cereal for breakfast. We proceeded sailing and at noon we ate lunch. After lunch everyone went down to watch a movie. The movie was about Irving Johnson, the Peking, her crew and experiences as he traveled around Cape Horn. Afterwards Open Water divers learned how to work with the dive tables. The advanced sailors met and talked about earning specific certificates. Then everyone got the chance to take "naked" showers in the heads, and I know everyone enjoyed that! Watch kept going as we keep sailing. At six we did our squeeze question. The day was overall very peaceful. Being on Argo is amazing. When you see her sails fly and everyone working together in harmony it is one of the best feelings in the world!
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Underway in the Gulf of Thailand
Today started early, watch teams were out at the stroke of midnight. When day broke we saw the 360 horizon and water all around. Since we are underway we had cereal for breakfast. We proceeded sailing and at noon we ate lunch. After lunch everyone went down to watch a movie. The movie was about Irving Johnson, the Peking, her crew and experiences as he traveled around Cape Horn. Afterwards Open Water divers learned how to work with the dive tables. The advanced sailors met and talked about earning specific certificates. Then everyone got the chance to take "naked" showers in the heads, and I know everyone enjoyed that! Watch kept going as we keep sailing. At six we did our squeeze question. The day was overall very peaceful. Being on Argo is amazing. When you see her sails fly and everyone working together in harmony it is one of the best feelings in the world!
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 14
Author: Davis N.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
We started off with oatmeal for breakfast. We put up our sails but there was absolutely no wind so we motored to out dive site. When we got there everybody dove at least once, and others twice. The Neptunes had a lecture for their equipment specialty and others went on another dive. Then we sailed over to Cane Garden Bay.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
We started off with oatmeal for breakfast. We put up our sails but there was absolutely no wind so we motored to out dive site. When we got there everybody dove at least once, and others twice. The Neptunes had a lecture for their equipment specialty and others went on another dive. Then we sailed over to Cane Garden Bay.
Day 14
Author: Randi K.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
After a 7am breakfast of oatmeal, and a hurried clean-up, we sailed to Shark Point for our first dive of the day. The Dolphins and Neptunes had their second Underwater Naturalist dive, while the Rescue shipmates had another search and recovery dive. We had tuna salad and hotdogs for lunch before returning to the water. After lunch, the Neptunes had a lecture, Rescue went diving again, and the Dolphins went turtle tagging with the Lifeworks boat (and caught a hawksbill sea turtle!). We then piled back onto the boat for a sail to Cane Garden Bay.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
After a 7am breakfast of oatmeal, and a hurried clean-up, we sailed to Shark Point for our first dive of the day. The Dolphins and Neptunes had their second Underwater Naturalist dive, while the Rescue shipmates had another search and recovery dive. We had tuna salad and hotdogs for lunch before returning to the water. After lunch, the Neptunes had a lecture, Rescue went diving again, and the Dolphins went turtle tagging with the Lifeworks boat (and caught a hawksbill sea turtle!). We then piled back onto the boat for a sail to Cane Garden Bay.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 14
Author: Daniel M.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was great. We started with some Picos in Muskmelon Bay. We had little wind but we had some fun pirating Ben's Pico. We then had a talk on engines over at Serenity. We all went diving later, I went snorkeling with Jason and we saw a small shark, some flounder, and a trumpet fish. After lunch we went wakeboarding. After I finally convinced Lily of going. We had some great stuff, Lily got up but she went down after an accidental side flip. Mac got up too but fell down when he crossed the wake. I did an impressive board slide on the wake but wiped out when trying to make a 180. To end our rotation day we had some sweet bracelets out of rope and sailed to Cane Garden Bay. We were the first ones out and sailed pretty fast with little wind. When we anchored we ate dinner and celebrated Dan's birthday.
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
Today was great. We started with some Picos in Muskmelon Bay. We had little wind but we had some fun pirating Ben's Pico. We then had a talk on engines over at Serenity. We all went diving later, I went snorkeling with Jason and we saw a small shark, some flounder, and a trumpet fish. After lunch we went wakeboarding. After I finally convinced Lily of going. We had some great stuff, Lily got up but she went down after an accidental side flip. Mac got up too but fell down when he crossed the wake. I did an impressive board slide on the wake but wiped out when trying to make a 180. To end our rotation day we had some sweet bracelets out of rope and sailed to Cane Garden Bay. We were the first ones out and sailed pretty fast with little wind. When we anchored we ate dinner and celebrated Dan's birthday.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 14
Author: Roxanne M.
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
We started our day with a surprise rescue scenario; Doug was a stressed diver at the surface who enjoyed making it impossible for me to tow back to the boat and Julia was rescued from under. Today was also the last rotation day! Our first group of certified divers! We rehydrated to "Roxanne" by the Police and dominated two water jugs. Sophie saved a sea turtle via Bubbles the pineapple. Brownies tonight and our last lecture!
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Location: Cane Garden Bay, Tortola
We started our day with a surprise rescue scenario; Doug was a stressed diver at the surface who enjoyed making it impossible for me to tow back to the boat and Julia was rescued from under. Today was also the last rotation day! Our first group of certified divers! We rehydrated to "Roxanne" by the Police and dominated two water jugs. Sophie saved a sea turtle via Bubbles the pineapple. Brownies tonight and our last lecture!
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Sunday, June 28, 2009
In Transit
Author: Lawson
Location: Galapagos to Quito
We woke up early to enjoy a great breakfast of Fruit Loops for some people and nothing for the three sickies. From there we took an hour bus ride to a ferry, which we took to Baltra where the airport was. Over the bus ride most of us slept and during the ferry ride, Dan told me and some others stories about how he had gotten sick in foreign countries, which was extremely comforting. When we arrived at the airport we ran into a fellow passenger of the boat we were on in the Galapagos, who just happened to be going to Quito as well. Our first of two flights on our way to Quito was great, but the second was probably one of the worst flights most of us have been on, thanks to the turbulence. When we arrived in Quito we got on the bus and headed for the hotel where we rested for two hours then ordered many pizzas, which were absolutely fantastic. After dinner we played a game of mafia and went to bed early.
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Location: Galapagos to Quito
We woke up early to enjoy a great breakfast of Fruit Loops for some people and nothing for the three sickies. From there we took an hour bus ride to a ferry, which we took to Baltra where the airport was. Over the bus ride most of us slept and during the ferry ride, Dan told me and some others stories about how he had gotten sick in foreign countries, which was extremely comforting. When we arrived at the airport we ran into a fellow passenger of the boat we were on in the Galapagos, who just happened to be going to Quito as well. Our first of two flights on our way to Quito was great, but the second was probably one of the worst flights most of us have been on, thanks to the turbulence. When we arrived in Quito we got on the bus and headed for the hotel where we rested for two hours then ordered many pizzas, which were absolutely fantastic. After dinner we played a game of mafia and went to bed early.
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Diving in Koh Tao
Author: Jordan Glaubinger
Location: Koh Tao, Thailand
Today we spent the day anchored in an amazing spot between two Koh Tao islands that had a beach sand bridge connecting them. Today everyone had two dives in the most clear and reefy parts of the trip. Open Water divers went on their third and fourth dives, Advanced went on a wreck dive which was exciting, and finally Rescue had a fun dive however our instructors kept us on our toes with made up scenarios that included rescuing a non-responsive diver being given CPR and oxygen, a panic diver and a tired diver. Late in the day we set up Argo to be ready for our night passage to Koh Chang. The passage is roughly 190 miles but thankfully it is downwind sailing. Once the scuba gear was stowed away we raised the sails and began to set sail heading at 55 degrees true of 70 to 75 degrees magnetic. Watch Team 1 took the deck to start and the weather seemed clear and perfect for a sail.
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Location: Koh Tao, Thailand
Today we spent the day anchored in an amazing spot between two Koh Tao islands that had a beach sand bridge connecting them. Today everyone had two dives in the most clear and reefy parts of the trip. Open Water divers went on their third and fourth dives, Advanced went on a wreck dive which was exciting, and finally Rescue had a fun dive however our instructors kept us on our toes with made up scenarios that included rescuing a non-responsive diver being given CPR and oxygen, a panic diver and a tired diver. Late in the day we set up Argo to be ready for our night passage to Koh Chang. The passage is roughly 190 miles but thankfully it is downwind sailing. Once the scuba gear was stowed away we raised the sails and began to set sail heading at 55 degrees true of 70 to 75 degrees magnetic. Watch Team 1 took the deck to start and the weather seemed clear and perfect for a sail.
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Day 13
Author: Alora S.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was great! Rescue did their final navigation dive and then had a scenario where two of the instructors were "injured". They handled their first scenario very well. The neptunes learned from the Rescue shipmates about the tired diver tow, panicked diver approach and unresponsive divers. Then we played on the beach for a while. Meanwhile the Dolphins went turtle tagging. After that, all of the ActionQuest shipmates and staff got together and had a beach party, where we played the game of life. So all together, today was an awesome day.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was great! Rescue did their final navigation dive and then had a scenario where two of the instructors were "injured". They handled their first scenario very well. The neptunes learned from the Rescue shipmates about the tired diver tow, panicked diver approach and unresponsive divers. Then we played on the beach for a while. Meanwhile the Dolphins went turtle tagging. After that, all of the ActionQuest shipmates and staff got together and had a beach party, where we played the game of life. So all together, today was an awesome day.
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Day 13
Author: Gregory H.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had our beach party! The day started out with scrambled eggs. Our boat then split up: the Dolphins stayed, and everyone else went to the other boat (Natasha). Before a lunch of tortilla soup (which was awesome!), Rescue had its first scenario, out of the 4. Chris and Sam, some of the instructors, were involved: Chris had "stabbed" Sam in the leg and Sam had "stabbed" him back. Our response to the scenario was quite good. We then had the beach barbeque and everybody got to play the 3 hour game of life. Returning to the boat at 10:30 pm we went to bed fairly early.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had our beach party! The day started out with scrambled eggs. Our boat then split up: the Dolphins stayed, and everyone else went to the other boat (Natasha). Before a lunch of tortilla soup (which was awesome!), Rescue had its first scenario, out of the 4. Chris and Sam, some of the instructors, were involved: Chris had "stabbed" Sam in the leg and Sam had "stabbed" him back. Our response to the scenario was quite good. We then had the beach barbeque and everybody got to play the 3 hour game of life. Returning to the boat at 10:30 pm we went to bed fairly early.
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Day 13
Author: Courtney R.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was another fun and exciting rotation day. The crew first took part in listening to Anna tell us about other orograms like Seamester. It was really encouraging and definitely made us think about doing it in the future. We then did a little wakeboarding, knot tying, and of course Picoing, which is always a good time. Oh yeah, and we dove today. Doug took Nick and I on our deep water dive while the others completed their third open water dive. Now it's time to head to the Sommer's Beach BBQ. Can't wait!!
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was another fun and exciting rotation day. The crew first took part in listening to Anna tell us about other orograms like Seamester. It was really encouraging and definitely made us think about doing it in the future. We then did a little wakeboarding, knot tying, and of course Picoing, which is always a good time. Oh yeah, and we dove today. Doug took Nick and I on our deep water dive while the others completed their third open water dive. Now it's time to head to the Sommer's Beach BBQ. Can't wait!!
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Day 13
Author: Nick H.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was very nice out. A bit cloudy, that's all. Also not too windy or rough seas. Anyways, today was a rotation day. Advanced divers dove a deep dive, and open waters just did more practice dives, dance parties, and swam the floor. The best thing today was probably the diving (just cause it's amazing). Anyways we now have the BBQ. Should be great.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was very nice out. A bit cloudy, that's all. Also not too windy or rough seas. Anyways, today was a rotation day. Advanced divers dove a deep dive, and open waters just did more practice dives, dance parties, and swam the floor. The best thing today was probably the diving (just cause it's amazing). Anyways we now have the BBQ. Should be great.
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Day 13
Author: Tucker I.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was an action packed Sunday. All of our boat woke up around 5:30am for an early morning staff cave dive. On the way back we rode SWAT/army style til returning for a nice breakfast of eggs and muffins. While eating Sophie noticed our dinghy slowly drifting off our stern. It was very comical. After finishing breakfast we motored over to our dive spot and began our lecture for a challenging physics exam. After this we were in the water to asisst with the Neptune divers and practice our skills for our presentation. After a quick lunch we were back in the water again for the same thing. After we finished diving and cleaning up we motored to Sommer's Beach for a beach BBQ. It was a very exciting day.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was an action packed Sunday. All of our boat woke up around 5:30am for an early morning staff cave dive. On the way back we rode SWAT/army style til returning for a nice breakfast of eggs and muffins. While eating Sophie noticed our dinghy slowly drifting off our stern. It was very comical. After finishing breakfast we motored over to our dive spot and began our lecture for a challenging physics exam. After this we were in the water to asisst with the Neptune divers and practice our skills for our presentation. After a quick lunch we were back in the water again for the same thing. After we finished diving and cleaning up we motored to Sommer's Beach for a beach BBQ. It was a very exciting day.
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Day 13
Author: Nels L.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had a rotation day. We started out with knot tying. Then we sailed around with Picos. We later went waterskiing/wakeboarding. The crew mostly wanted to wakeboard. I kneeboarded and tried to do a 180 off a wake. That did not end well. After a nice bowl of soup we went scuba diving at Muskmelon Bay. The coral was really awesome! We later traveled to Sommer's Beach for a beach BBQ. Good burgers.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had a rotation day. We started out with knot tying. Then we sailed around with Picos. We later went waterskiing/wakeboarding. The crew mostly wanted to wakeboard. I kneeboarded and tried to do a 180 off a wake. That did not end well. After a nice bowl of soup we went scuba diving at Muskmelon Bay. The coral was really awesome! We later traveled to Sommer's Beach for a beach BBQ. Good burgers.
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Day 13
Author: Nicholas S.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had another rotation day. First we did wakeboarding/waterskiing. Jess, one of my shipmates, got up for her first time on a wakeboard. After waterskiing was knots (knot tying). I made my first monkey's fist then. After that we had Pico sailing. It wasn't very windy so Picos weren't as fun. Next we had vocational rotational, which was talking about next year if we came back. We had lunch afterwards. After that was DIVING! I only have to do one more dive until I'm certified. Later tonight we have our second BBQ. Yay! That was our day.
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today we had another rotation day. First we did wakeboarding/waterskiing. Jess, one of my shipmates, got up for her first time on a wakeboard. After waterskiing was knots (knot tying). I made my first monkey's fist then. After that we had Pico sailing. It wasn't very windy so Picos weren't as fun. Next we had vocational rotational, which was talking about next year if we came back. We had lunch afterwards. After that was DIVING! I only have to do one more dive until I'm certified. Later tonight we have our second BBQ. Yay! That was our day.
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Day 13
Author: Maddy G.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas wnet on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas wnet on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
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Day 13
Author: Maddy G.
Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas wnet on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Sommer's Beach, Tortola
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas wnet on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
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Saturday, June 27, 2009
Day 12
Author: Paul H.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
This morning we woke up and sailed to the Chickuzen for a dive, after the instructors had their staff meeting. After the hour of sailing we had some problems finding the wreck because the mooring balls had been removed. After around 30 minutes of searching for it, one of the instructors found it while snorkeling. This dive is a wreck in the middle of the ocean, north of the islands. It is one of the cooler wreck dives we had done! It is a 300 foot Japanese ship surrounded by fish. Most of the divers even saw some blacktip and nurse sharks! Afterwards we sailed to Muskmelon Bay, where the Neptunes were preparing for their final night dive for their specialty course.
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Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
This morning we woke up and sailed to the Chickuzen for a dive, after the instructors had their staff meeting. After the hour of sailing we had some problems finding the wreck because the mooring balls had been removed. After around 30 minutes of searching for it, one of the instructors found it while snorkeling. This dive is a wreck in the middle of the ocean, north of the islands. It is one of the cooler wreck dives we had done! It is a 300 foot Japanese ship surrounded by fish. Most of the divers even saw some blacktip and nurse sharks! Afterwards we sailed to Muskmelon Bay, where the Neptunes were preparing for their final night dive for their specialty course.
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Day 12
Author: Maren T.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
We set out early this morning to dive the Chickuzen. Everybody dove and collectively saw a turtle, blacktip shark, cobia, multiple barracuda, and hundreds of other smaller fish. The rest of the day was spent sailing to Muskmelon Bay where the Dolphins and Neptunes snorkeled the setting for a night dive. During the snorkel we saw a squid, a turtle, a nurse shark, and thousands of swarming minnows. After dinner, the Dolphins and Neptunes went on a night dive while Rescue learned about saving people! We ended the night with a delicious batch of brownies, and Tina and Alex even fought over the crumbs. Overall, it was another gorgeous day in the BVI which everyone loved!
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Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
We set out early this morning to dive the Chickuzen. Everybody dove and collectively saw a turtle, blacktip shark, cobia, multiple barracuda, and hundreds of other smaller fish. The rest of the day was spent sailing to Muskmelon Bay where the Dolphins and Neptunes snorkeled the setting for a night dive. During the snorkel we saw a squid, a turtle, a nurse shark, and thousands of swarming minnows. After dinner, the Dolphins and Neptunes went on a night dive while Rescue learned about saving people! We ended the night with a delicious batch of brownies, and Tina and Alex even fought over the crumbs. Overall, it was another gorgeous day in the BVI which everyone loved!
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Day 12
Author: Katherine N.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we got to sleep in til 7:15! It was a big deal. Our chefs whipped up some awesome french toast and fresh fruit. After our hearty breakfast and cleanup we started on our sail over to Muskmelon Bay. The wind wasn't that strong, but we still had to put up the sails. We practiced our man overboard drills and talked about the points of sail. Around 12:30 we hove to (stopped with the sails up) and had lunch- chicken salad sandwiches. During lunch we quoted Mean Girls, it was very entertaining. After lunch we sailed into Muskmelon Bay and cooked dinner; chilli and rice. Tonight is movie night! I'm pumped!
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we got to sleep in til 7:15! It was a big deal. Our chefs whipped up some awesome french toast and fresh fruit. After our hearty breakfast and cleanup we started on our sail over to Muskmelon Bay. The wind wasn't that strong, but we still had to put up the sails. We practiced our man overboard drills and talked about the points of sail. Around 12:30 we hove to (stopped with the sails up) and had lunch- chicken salad sandwiches. During lunch we quoted Mean Girls, it was very entertaining. After lunch we sailed into Muskmelon Bay and cooked dinner; chilli and rice. Tonight is movie night! I'm pumped!
Day 12
Author: Lyric R.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today was a little cloudy but still beautiful. The winds were very light, which made it a little more challenging to sail. Royal Troon woke up bright and early and sailed from Marina Cay to the Dogs, where the advanced scuba divers did a dive by themselves and the beginners practiced skills and enjoyed the scenery. After we sailed to Muskmelon Bay, which is where we have anchored for the night. On the sail over some took a nap and others enjoyed conversations and loads of laughter, fun, fun! Everyone is quite sad the halfway mark is up. We are one big happy family. Tonight's activity is movie night with the family.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today was a little cloudy but still beautiful. The winds were very light, which made it a little more challenging to sail. Royal Troon woke up bright and early and sailed from Marina Cay to the Dogs, where the advanced scuba divers did a dive by themselves and the beginners practiced skills and enjoyed the scenery. After we sailed to Muskmelon Bay, which is where we have anchored for the night. On the sail over some took a nap and others enjoyed conversations and loads of laughter, fun, fun! Everyone is quite sad the halfway mark is up. We are one big happy family. Tonight's activity is movie night with the family.
Day 12
Author: Parker A.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we woke up at Marina Cay. Then the boat split up and half went to Alexandra and the other with Natasha, the dive boats. Then we headed out to an awesome wreck, the Chikuzan, and old refridgerator ship. While we were under, some of us saw a shark, stingray, goliath grouper, and some barracuda. Then we had one of my favorite dinners, chilli, because it reminds me of my mom!
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Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we woke up at Marina Cay. Then the boat split up and half went to Alexandra and the other with Natasha, the dive boats. Then we headed out to an awesome wreck, the Chikuzan, and old refridgerator ship. While we were under, some of us saw a shark, stingray, goliath grouper, and some barracuda. Then we had one of my favorite dinners, chilli, because it reminds me of my mom!
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Day 12
Author: Unknown
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we sailed around practicing man overboard drills. We did sail circles and we did multiple heave to's. Oh and we practiced tying knots. Nash won and apple throwing contest.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today we sailed around practicing man overboard drills. We did sail circles and we did multiple heave to's. Oh and we practiced tying knots. Nash won and apple throwing contest.
Day 12
Author: Andrew Y.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today's dive was fun. Lunch was chicken salad sandwiches. The rest of the day was uneventful and filled with even more beautiful scenery.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today's dive was fun. Lunch was chicken salad sandwiches. The rest of the day was uneventful and filled with even more beautiful scenery.
Day 12
Author: Maximo C.
Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas went on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Muskmelon Bay, Guana Island
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas went on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
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Beach Bumming and Cleaning
Author: Adam
Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos
Today, we had an unusually late morning, even after seven. Our mission involved coordinating with local school kids to clean up a beach. And what a beach it was! It was one of, if not the most beautiful sandy beach that I have ever seen. The waves rolled in incessantly and with a crash that was just loud enough to be relaxing while we cleaned up the sandy strand... of sand. The sand was very fine and hard due to the tide coming in right all the way to the first plants. The water was quite shallow and the crests of the waves were just off the shore. Once the trash was sequestered in our bags, we played hopscotch and pictionary with the sand. Then we half buried someone in sand. We left and had skewered seafood or grilled octopus, both of which were very good, exquisite, some might say if they were so inclined. Following our feast, we embarked on what seemed to be an exodus across the island in search of a fissure in which a pool of refreshing water awaited us. Along the way, we picked up more trash and after swimming for about an hour and a half we returned. We shopped for a little and ate dinner, at which we had awesome seafood. Several of us, including myself, turned the centerpieces from pretty cups of flowers and water into beautification for our hair. After which we planned a bank heist.
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Location: Santa Cruz Island, Galapagos
Today, we had an unusually late morning, even after seven. Our mission involved coordinating with local school kids to clean up a beach. And what a beach it was! It was one of, if not the most beautiful sandy beach that I have ever seen. The waves rolled in incessantly and with a crash that was just loud enough to be relaxing while we cleaned up the sandy strand... of sand. The sand was very fine and hard due to the tide coming in right all the way to the first plants. The water was quite shallow and the crests of the waves were just off the shore. Once the trash was sequestered in our bags, we played hopscotch and pictionary with the sand. Then we half buried someone in sand. We left and had skewered seafood or grilled octopus, both of which were very good, exquisite, some might say if they were so inclined. Following our feast, we embarked on what seemed to be an exodus across the island in search of a fissure in which a pool of refreshing water awaited us. Along the way, we picked up more trash and after swimming for about an hour and a half we returned. We shopped for a little and ate dinner, at which we had awesome seafood. Several of us, including myself, turned the centerpieces from pretty cups of flowers and water into beautification for our hair. After which we planned a bank heist.
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Scuba Diving, Snorkeling and more Scuba
Author: Jonah Harris
Location: Koh Tao, Thailanad
Today the crew of S/Y Argo partook in a variety of water activities. Those of us not inclined to breathe canned air spent the day snorkeling, the more challenging and glamorous cousin of scuba. Our rations were typical, with the exception of a dinner smorgasbord highlighted by chocolate cake. This was a reward for the efficient manner in which the day's business was conducted largely thanks to the exemplary leadership provided by the skipper. Despite being anchored the entire day in Koh Tao, much work on the decks was necessary. Notably, I was hoisted up the mast with the bosun's chair and climbed along the spreaders to repair a flag. There will be scuba tomorrow in the morning, but afterwards the focus will shift more to sailing.
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Location: Koh Tao, Thailanad
Today the crew of S/Y Argo partook in a variety of water activities. Those of us not inclined to breathe canned air spent the day snorkeling, the more challenging and glamorous cousin of scuba. Our rations were typical, with the exception of a dinner smorgasbord highlighted by chocolate cake. This was a reward for the efficient manner in which the day's business was conducted largely thanks to the exemplary leadership provided by the skipper. Despite being anchored the entire day in Koh Tao, much work on the decks was necessary. Notably, I was hoisted up the mast with the bosun's chair and climbed along the spreaders to repair a flag. There will be scuba tomorrow in the morning, but afterwards the focus will shift more to sailing.
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Friday, June 26, 2009
Day 11
Author: Henderson B.
Location: Marina Cay
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas went on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
Location: Marina Cay
Today was the 7th rotation day! It wasn't very windy with the sun shining bright. We woke up to eat delicious scrambled eggs and a yummy muffin, then we started our rotations. First Picoing, and everyone did awesome flips off the boat while shipmates lounged on Picos in the glassy water. Next Vegas went on to complete and amazing third open water scuba dive and the Barracudas went on a deep open water dive. After everyone gathered together to eat tortilla soup for lunch after a hurried lunch cleanup everyone went to go waterskiing, and after to tie knots. For dinner every boat and crew member aboard them went to a BBQ and had tons of fun!
Recycling
Author: Christine
Location: Puerta Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador, South America, World
We arose to a simple, yet satisfying breakfast of bread with butter and jam and cereal. After eating until we were sufficiently stuffed, we all rode in taxis to the Galapagos Recylcing Center. The man in charge discussed with us the importance of the center, and what a difference we would be making by working with them. We were then given extremely spiffy yellow rain boots to work in; after that, we split up into groups. I worked with three other group members to shovel compost. After working with the compost for several hours, my group and I met up with the rest of the group so that we could return to the town and eat lunch of delicious chicken with Parmesan cheese, mashed potatoes, and salad, followed by a walnut brownie with ice cream.
We returned to Hotel Castro to pick up our laundry bags so that we could drop off our laundry at the laundromat and have the honor of receiving clean laundry the following afternoon. We then returned to the Galapagos Recycling Center to continue our work. Instead of working with the compost, I helped sort garbage that was put onto a conveyer belt. I was in charge of collecting the white office paper and the cardboard and sorting into their correct bags. After sorting, I stacked cardboard with my fellow comedic friends who kept me going by making ridiculous jokes the entire time. After a long day of work, we sadly departed from our yellow rain boots and the endless abyss of cardboard boxes. Upon our return to Hotel Castro, we all showered and cleaned up before heading out to a fantastic dinner of hamburgers, which some of us had been craving for quite a while.
After another very satisfying meal, we walked back to Hotel Castro to have our evening meeting, in which we discussed our meaning of community service. We all went to bed shortly after, glad to catch some z's before the next day's adventures.
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Location: Puerta Ayora, Santa Cruz, Galapagos, Ecuador, South America, World
We arose to a simple, yet satisfying breakfast of bread with butter and jam and cereal. After eating until we were sufficiently stuffed, we all rode in taxis to the Galapagos Recylcing Center. The man in charge discussed with us the importance of the center, and what a difference we would be making by working with them. We were then given extremely spiffy yellow rain boots to work in; after that, we split up into groups. I worked with three other group members to shovel compost. After working with the compost for several hours, my group and I met up with the rest of the group so that we could return to the town and eat lunch of delicious chicken with Parmesan cheese, mashed potatoes, and salad, followed by a walnut brownie with ice cream.
We returned to Hotel Castro to pick up our laundry bags so that we could drop off our laundry at the laundromat and have the honor of receiving clean laundry the following afternoon. We then returned to the Galapagos Recycling Center to continue our work. Instead of working with the compost, I helped sort garbage that was put onto a conveyer belt. I was in charge of collecting the white office paper and the cardboard and sorting into their correct bags. After sorting, I stacked cardboard with my fellow comedic friends who kept me going by making ridiculous jokes the entire time. After a long day of work, we sadly departed from our yellow rain boots and the endless abyss of cardboard boxes. Upon our return to Hotel Castro, we all showered and cleaned up before heading out to a fantastic dinner of hamburgers, which some of us had been craving for quite a while.
After another very satisfying meal, we walked back to Hotel Castro to have our evening meeting, in which we discussed our meaning of community service. We all went to bed shortly after, glad to catch some z's before the next day's adventures.
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Sailing to Koh Tao
Author: Meredith Harris
Location: Koh Tao, Thailand
Today we sailed all the way from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao. We learned more about sailing from Captain Dan and practiced tacking! I was at the helm while we were sailing and I had a blast! It was a beautiful sail and we all had the opportunity to take pictures of Argo. That was my favorite part of the day. Argo is an amazing ship and I'm glad I get to show everyone at home how great it is.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Koh Tao, Thailand
Today we sailed all the way from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao. We learned more about sailing from Captain Dan and practiced tacking! I was at the helm while we were sailing and I had a blast! It was a beautiful sail and we all had the opportunity to take pictures of Argo. That was my favorite part of the day. Argo is an amazing ship and I'm glad I get to show everyone at home how great it is.
Flickr Photos from Today
Flickr Photos from this Voyage
Day 11
Author: Leah S.
Location: Marina Cay
This morning we rose with the sun for an early morning dive. For most of us it was our second open water dive, but for some it was the second advanced open water dive. We finished around 9am and made our way to Trellis Bay. Then we left to Marina Cay to fill up on water and fuel, and yet another trip to Pusser's. It was tortellini night again- delicious. Nick did a great job at the helm. Doug took out the trash gracefully. We are all super close. MC Hammer is blasting right now.
Location: Marina Cay
This morning we rose with the sun for an early morning dive. For most of us it was our second open water dive, but for some it was the second advanced open water dive. We finished around 9am and made our way to Trellis Bay. Then we left to Marina Cay to fill up on water and fuel, and yet another trip to Pusser's. It was tortellini night again- delicious. Nick did a great job at the helm. Doug took out the trash gracefully. We are all super close. MC Hammer is blasting right now.
Day 11
Author: Jeremy B.
Location: Marina Cay
Today we woke up around 7am. We had pancakes, which were quite good. We raised anchor and sailed around for a bit. We practiced sailing and we rotated positions. We then sailed over to Marina Cay and then raided their store for junk food and power for cell phones. We just had dinner, which was tortellini and garlic bread and was also quite delicious. Now we are getting ready to go do something with the other boats.
Location: Marina Cay
Today we woke up around 7am. We had pancakes, which were quite good. We raised anchor and sailed around for a bit. We practiced sailing and we rotated positions. We then sailed over to Marina Cay and then raided their store for junk food and power for cell phones. We just had dinner, which was tortellini and garlic bread and was also quite delicious. Now we are getting ready to go do something with the other boats.
Day 11
Author: Soph F.
Location: Marina Cay
An early start to an exciting dive! Joined by the turtles in the ocean and touched the white sand bottom of the Dogs! We raised our anchor and sailed through the high temperatures of paradise to Trellis Bay, where we stocked up on scrummy food that led us to Marina Cay to load up on water. The dinner smells delicious and the sun is still shining as we get ready for a night on land full of laughs and good bonding time. The boat is rocking with the waves, the music and the bare bronzed feet of Roam- enjoying the Caribbean life- thinking of home- smiling about it all!
Location: Marina Cay
An early start to an exciting dive! Joined by the turtles in the ocean and touched the white sand bottom of the Dogs! We raised our anchor and sailed through the high temperatures of paradise to Trellis Bay, where we stocked up on scrummy food that led us to Marina Cay to load up on water. The dinner smells delicious and the sun is still shining as we get ready for a night on land full of laughs and good bonding time. The boat is rocking with the waves, the music and the bare bronzed feet of Roam- enjoying the Caribbean life- thinking of home- smiling about it all!
Day 11
Author: Kalinda P.
Location: Marina Cay
Today was slightly overcast but hot and humid. We sailed early in the morning to get to a group of rocky islands known as The Dogs. Once there the group went sailing and practiced tacking and working together. After we went for our second open water dive. There was an abundance of interesting coral and fish and we practiced a new skill. We did a share air exercise except instead of staying on the bottom, we shared all the way to the surface. After diving we sailed to Trellis Bay for some on shore time. Afer arriving at our final destination we all got some much needed fresh water showers and ended the day with a filling dinner of tortellini.
Location: Marina Cay
Today was slightly overcast but hot and humid. We sailed early in the morning to get to a group of rocky islands known as The Dogs. Once there the group went sailing and practiced tacking and working together. After we went for our second open water dive. There was an abundance of interesting coral and fish and we practiced a new skill. We did a share air exercise except instead of staying on the bottom, we shared all the way to the surface. After diving we sailed to Trellis Bay for some on shore time. Afer arriving at our final destination we all got some much needed fresh water showers and ended the day with a filling dinner of tortellini.
Day 11
Author: Joe G.
Location: Marina Cay
Today we had a late wakeup and start, which was much appreciated. We then started to sail downwind towards the Dogs, which was no easy feat. During this there was no wind, and when the wind picked up it started to rain. We then practiced our sailing circles in the Sir Francis Drake passage. We then anchored off George Dog. We then proceeded to sail towards Marina Cay. During this sail we got our second hibiclens shower. We then had a little over a half hour on Marina Cay to get our necessities.
Location: Marina Cay
Today we had a late wakeup and start, which was much appreciated. We then started to sail downwind towards the Dogs, which was no easy feat. During this there was no wind, and when the wind picked up it started to rain. We then practiced our sailing circles in the Sir Francis Drake passage. We then anchored off George Dog. We then proceeded to sail towards Marina Cay. During this sail we got our second hibiclens shower. We then had a little over a half hour on Marina Cay to get our necessities.
Day 11
Author: Bryn P.
Location: Marina Cay
After waking up bright and early at Peter Island we went on a nice sail to Hodges Creek, where we refilled on water and got new linens. We then sailed to Ginger Steps where we dove as a boat for the first time. We saw the friendliest turtle ever!! Then we had a long sail to Marina Cay. After a delicious dinner of tortellini, garlic bread, and salad, we went to shore where Mike sat us all down and had us listen to a very inspirational speaker.
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Location: Marina Cay
After waking up bright and early at Peter Island we went on a nice sail to Hodges Creek, where we refilled on water and got new linens. We then sailed to Ginger Steps where we dove as a boat for the first time. We saw the friendliest turtle ever!! Then we had a long sail to Marina Cay. After a delicious dinner of tortellini, garlic bread, and salad, we went to shore where Mike sat us all down and had us listen to a very inspirational speaker.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 11
Author: Unknown
Location: Marina Cay
This morning we woke up at 7:15 to a simple breakfast of cereal. We quickly got underway to sail to our first port of the day, Hodge's Creek. Most of us had an early lunch at the local restaurant and called home. We needed to be back on the boat at eleven and set sail to our dive spot of the day Alice in Wonderland. The waves at the dive spot were unbelievable but we were still able to get all our dive stuff on and have a great dive. We broke into two groups. Cowie, Christian, Caitlin, Jeff, Tina, and I all went with Chris. Hailey, Jamie, Randi, Maren, and Greg went with Blair. Once we were done with the dive we sailed to Marina Cay and most of us enjoyed a nice nap. At Marina Cay we went to a local touristy shop and got ice cream and chocolate bars for the staff. Jamie and Cowie had to stay behind and prepare us dinner. It was scrumptious tortellini with tomato sauce. We're off to a Lifeworks talk tonight.
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Location: Marina Cay
This morning we woke up at 7:15 to a simple breakfast of cereal. We quickly got underway to sail to our first port of the day, Hodge's Creek. Most of us had an early lunch at the local restaurant and called home. We needed to be back on the boat at eleven and set sail to our dive spot of the day Alice in Wonderland. The waves at the dive spot were unbelievable but we were still able to get all our dive stuff on and have a great dive. We broke into two groups. Cowie, Christian, Caitlin, Jeff, Tina, and I all went with Chris. Hailey, Jamie, Randi, Maren, and Greg went with Blair. Once we were done with the dive we sailed to Marina Cay and most of us enjoyed a nice nap. At Marina Cay we went to a local touristy shop and got ice cream and chocolate bars for the staff. Jamie and Cowie had to stay behind and prepare us dinner. It was scrumptious tortellini with tomato sauce. We're off to a Lifeworks talk tonight.
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Day 10
Author: Tina C.
Location: Great Harbor, Peter Island
We woke up at 7:15 to the smell of delicious pancakes. After a slow cleanup the three groups parted for the morning. The Rescue divers had a training session, the Neptunes dove a wreck at 80 feet, and the Dolphins went on a snorkel. Being part of the Dolphins I jumped in and started searching for interesting marine life. The things we found were placed in a mesh bag Kris was swimming around with. Once the bag was full we brought it up onboard and proceeded to identify the different things. Two of the coolest things we found were a common Arbacia urchin and a three rowed sea cucumber. After we returned all the marine life back to the ocean we sat down for a yummy lunch of grilled cheese cooked by Hailey and Christian. After lunch the groups parted yet again. Rescue had a lecture and then learned how to get unconscious divers to the surface. Neptunes went on another dive with Blair.
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Location: Great Harbor, Peter Island
We woke up at 7:15 to the smell of delicious pancakes. After a slow cleanup the three groups parted for the morning. The Rescue divers had a training session, the Neptunes dove a wreck at 80 feet, and the Dolphins went on a snorkel. Being part of the Dolphins I jumped in and started searching for interesting marine life. The things we found were placed in a mesh bag Kris was swimming around with. Once the bag was full we brought it up onboard and proceeded to identify the different things. Two of the coolest things we found were a common Arbacia urchin and a three rowed sea cucumber. After we returned all the marine life back to the ocean we sat down for a yummy lunch of grilled cheese cooked by Hailey and Christian. After lunch the groups parted yet again. Rescue had a lecture and then learned how to get unconscious divers to the surface. Neptunes went on another dive with Blair.
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Thursday, June 25, 2009
Adios Amigo
Author: Cheryl
Location: Puerto Ayora
It's the last half day on the boat. We were told to have everything ready at 6:00 AM and would land in the island. There were a lot of sea lion babies lying on the beach, iguanas relaxing on the rocks, and blue-footed boobies dancing and building their nests. The interesting thing we learned was that the boobies poo around themselves on purpose. They do it to claim their territores and to kill the bacteria. Then after a short break on the boat, we took our packing stuffs and farewelled to the boat that we stayed on for 5 precious days.
After waiting for so long, there came our first community service afternoon working with the turtles. We were so excited that this was exactly what we wanted when we were visiting the turtles from the outside.
We were assigned to clean the turtle poos in the water pool, pick up the leaves and sticks in the cage, sweep the pathway, and move the turtles to the safe place. Lawson, Christine, Rachel, and I were in the group of washing the pools out. It was such a small poll but it took us a couple of hours to wash them off. Although it was pretty hard, especially in such a hot afternoon, we were enjoying it. It was absolutely the most interesting community service I have ever done.
p.s. The meals were still so delicious as usual.
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Location: Puerto Ayora
It's the last half day on the boat. We were told to have everything ready at 6:00 AM and would land in the island. There were a lot of sea lion babies lying on the beach, iguanas relaxing on the rocks, and blue-footed boobies dancing and building their nests. The interesting thing we learned was that the boobies poo around themselves on purpose. They do it to claim their territores and to kill the bacteria. Then after a short break on the boat, we took our packing stuffs and farewelled to the boat that we stayed on for 5 precious days.
After waiting for so long, there came our first community service afternoon working with the turtles. We were so excited that this was exactly what we wanted when we were visiting the turtles from the outside.
We were assigned to clean the turtle poos in the water pool, pick up the leaves and sticks in the cage, sweep the pathway, and move the turtles to the safe place. Lawson, Christine, Rachel, and I were in the group of washing the pools out. It was such a small poll but it took us a couple of hours to wash them off. Although it was pretty hard, especially in such a hot afternoon, we were enjoying it. It was absolutely the most interesting community service I have ever done.
p.s. The meals were still so delicious as usual.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Crepes and Ice Cream
Author: Michael Lebow
Location: Koh Phangan, Thailand
We woke up early this morning to the rocking of the ship and the smell of delicious French toast (Arthur loved it). We ate while motoring to Koh Phangan and then prepared to dive. The Advanced Divers did their navigation dive while the Rescue Divers continued to work on their skills. The Open Water Divers were happy to go on their first actual dive, but the visibility was so bad we could hardly see our own hands. After diving we had lunch (egg salad sandwiches) and then had our first sail chat! Then we made the boat ready for our sail tomorrow to Koh Tao. Then we went to shore for about an hour, where everyone enjoyed ice cream and crepes (Yum!). After walking around town we went back to the boat and showered. Our showers were surprisingly fun today---we ate dinner, cleaned up, put the scuba gear away and are now getting ready for our first Lifeworks Forum. Although we will not be celebrating a full moon party on Koh Phangan we will party on our own on Argo under the sliver of the moon.
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Location: Koh Phangan, Thailand
We woke up early this morning to the rocking of the ship and the smell of delicious French toast (Arthur loved it). We ate while motoring to Koh Phangan and then prepared to dive. The Advanced Divers did their navigation dive while the Rescue Divers continued to work on their skills. The Open Water Divers were happy to go on their first actual dive, but the visibility was so bad we could hardly see our own hands. After diving we had lunch (egg salad sandwiches) and then had our first sail chat! Then we made the boat ready for our sail tomorrow to Koh Tao. Then we went to shore for about an hour, where everyone enjoyed ice cream and crepes (Yum!). After walking around town we went back to the boat and showered. Our showers were surprisingly fun today---we ate dinner, cleaned up, put the scuba gear away and are now getting ready for our first Lifeworks Forum. Although we will not be celebrating a full moon party on Koh Phangan we will party on our own on Argo under the sliver of the moon.
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Day 10
Author: Benjamin S.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
We were woken during the night by rain, which made the people in the hammocks, Denny and I, very unhappy. We then went on to do our first open water dive. Congratulations to everyone onboard, we all passed our dive test; props to Campbell and Mardee who got 92. At the end of the day each boat got its crew and had a dance off, we totally won though, with a rousing rendition of Build Me Up Buttercup. We also finally managed to pump out our bilge tanks... awesome!! Here's from the crew of Serenity III, aka the Mitchmobile, another perfect day in paradise.
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
We were woken during the night by rain, which made the people in the hammocks, Denny and I, very unhappy. We then went on to do our first open water dive. Congratulations to everyone onboard, we all passed our dive test; props to Campbell and Mardee who got 92. At the end of the day each boat got its crew and had a dance off, we totally won though, with a rousing rendition of Build Me Up Buttercup. We also finally managed to pump out our bilge tanks... awesome!! Here's from the crew of Serenity III, aka the Mitchmobile, another perfect day in paradise.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 10
Author: Lynna D.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was calm in the morning and not too windy til dinner, it was summer Thanksgiving and things were blowing all over. Our boat started out this morning on a mooring around the point then we moved in to where the other boats were anchored. Last night we did a night dive and this morning Lyric and I planned, navigated, and led the dive in the same location. We saw a fish and named it Rico. We then practiced picking up moorings. Next we sailed the Picos with some funky wind and had a sail chat. Currently we are having a giant dance battle with the other boats and it's really really goofy!
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was calm in the morning and not too windy til dinner, it was summer Thanksgiving and things were blowing all over. Our boat started out this morning on a mooring around the point then we moved in to where the other boats were anchored. Last night we did a night dive and this morning Lyric and I planned, navigated, and led the dive in the same location. We saw a fish and named it Rico. We then practiced picking up moorings. Next we sailed the Picos with some funky wind and had a sail chat. Currently we are having a giant dance battle with the other boats and it's really really goofy!
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Day 10
Author: Julie B.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Yet another busy but fun day. We woke up and immediately began preparing for rotation day. Firt rotation all the divemasters went down to map out the dive site. Second rotation consisted of a "break" where we all frantically tried to complete our homework. After a lunch of grilled cheese we all got to dive with the open water divers on their first open water dive. We had some free time after and Julia was nice enough to take us out wakeboarding/waterskiing, which was met by much success. Dinner was a fabulous "summertime Thanksgiving" meal, and we are currently playing Michael Jackson songs as we have recently learned he passed away this afternoon.
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Yet another busy but fun day. We woke up and immediately began preparing for rotation day. Firt rotation all the divemasters went down to map out the dive site. Second rotation consisted of a "break" where we all frantically tried to complete our homework. After a lunch of grilled cheese we all got to dive with the open water divers on their first open water dive. We had some free time after and Julia was nice enough to take us out wakeboarding/waterskiing, which was met by much success. Dinner was a fabulous "summertime Thanksgiving" meal, and we are currently playing Michael Jackson songs as we have recently learned he passed away this afternoon.
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Day 10
Author: Laura S.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today many have achieved new goals: 360 turns, first open water dive, and even getting up on a board for the first time. Laughter has got us through this long day. We are excited to have summer Thanksgiving dinner, which is a first for me.
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today many have achieved new goals: 360 turns, first open water dive, and even getting up on a board for the first time. Laughter has got us through this long day. We are excited to have summer Thanksgiving dinner, which is a first for me.
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Day 10
Author: Jessica V.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day. We went on Picos, had our first open dive, practiced our mooring catching, and talked about navigation. After our exciting day we all sat around waiting for Jero to get back so we could have Thanksgiving dinner. After dinner a couple of the boat, including us, had a dance off. It was so much fun. Our boat put on togas and continued to dance. Everyone had a lot of fun. It was a fantastic day.
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day. We went on Picos, had our first open dive, practiced our mooring catching, and talked about navigation. After our exciting day we all sat around waiting for Jero to get back so we could have Thanksgiving dinner. After dinner a couple of the boat, including us, had a dance off. It was so much fun. Our boat put on togas and continued to dance. Everyone had a lot of fun. It was a fantastic day.
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Day 10
Author: Jean V.
Location: Great Harbor, Peter Island
After a delicious breakfast we sailed for no more than 20 minutes from Great Harbor to the Fearless wreck, where the Dolphins and Neptunes dove, discovering a giant shipwreck and a random toilet. The Dolphins also got to do some snorkeling! Meanwhile the Rescues practiced saving an unresponsive diver. After that came lunch. The Rescues then went back to practicing their rescue skills and the Dolphins went on another dive and saw a big puffer fish and another wreck. For dinner we celebrated Thanksgiving! Stephanie and Brooks cooked mashed potatoes, cranberries, turkey, and stuffing. It was delicious! Mike Meighan, the director of ActionQuest, ate on our boat. He brought along a ziploc of black and white cards and spread them on the table. He made us pick three of them: one showing what we dislike about about ourselve, one showing what we like about ourselves, and one reminding us of what a true friend should be. Hearing what everyone had to say was extremely interesting!
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Great Harbor, Peter Island
After a delicious breakfast we sailed for no more than 20 minutes from Great Harbor to the Fearless wreck, where the Dolphins and Neptunes dove, discovering a giant shipwreck and a random toilet. The Dolphins also got to do some snorkeling! Meanwhile the Rescues practiced saving an unresponsive diver. After that came lunch. The Rescues then went back to practicing their rescue skills and the Dolphins went on another dive and saw a big puffer fish and another wreck. For dinner we celebrated Thanksgiving! Stephanie and Brooks cooked mashed potatoes, cranberries, turkey, and stuffing. It was delicious! Mike Meighan, the director of ActionQuest, ate on our boat. He brought along a ziploc of black and white cards and spread them on the table. He made us pick three of them: one showing what we dislike about about ourselve, one showing what we like about ourselves, and one reminding us of what a true friend should be. Hearing what everyone had to say was extremely interesting!
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Day 10
Author: Daniel C.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today the weather was great. It wasn't too hot or too cold. The wind was strong enough for sailing but it wasn't insanely strong. Today we had our fifth rotation day, starting with practicing mooring our boat. We then went off to go sailing the Picos and doing dives off of boats. Vegas had their first open water dive and the Barracudas did a dive without supervision. We finished off with a sailing talk about navigation. We have had the best dinner for a while. We got Thanksgiving dinner. For me the funniest part of the day was the unofficial dance competition from boat to boat. I am eager for tomorrow's activities.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today the weather was great. It wasn't too hot or too cold. The wind was strong enough for sailing but it wasn't insanely strong. Today we had our fifth rotation day, starting with practicing mooring our boat. We then went off to go sailing the Picos and doing dives off of boats. Vegas had their first open water dive and the Barracudas did a dive without supervision. We finished off with a sailing talk about navigation. We have had the best dinner for a while. We got Thanksgiving dinner. For me the funniest part of the day was the unofficial dance competition from boat to boat. I am eager for tomorrow's activities.
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Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Day 9
Author: Nick P.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was another rotation day, which means we didn't sail, we did other activities. We started out sailing Picos (mini sailboats). During this time Demy and I spotted a baby sea turtle swimming along the reef. After that we went diving, it was typical, everyone was just doing underwater skills in the dive pen. But Courtney and I went to a different dive site. Then for lunch we had white bean soup. Then we learned how to use mooring balls and had an hour long navigation lecture. We hung out for a little while then had a fantastic dinner, including caesar salad, rice, and corn. Then Courtney and I did our night dive.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was another rotation day, which means we didn't sail, we did other activities. We started out sailing Picos (mini sailboats). During this time Demy and I spotted a baby sea turtle swimming along the reef. After that we went diving, it was typical, everyone was just doing underwater skills in the dive pen. But Courtney and I went to a different dive site. Then for lunch we had white bean soup. Then we learned how to use mooring balls and had an hour long navigation lecture. We hung out for a little while then had a fantastic dinner, including caesar salad, rice, and corn. Then Courtney and I did our night dive.
Flickr Photos from Today
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Day 9
Author: Jared S.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day. When we woke up we started breakfast. We then rushed through dishes so we could start our first rotation, diving. It was our last confined water dive. After the dive we proceeded to our second rotation, man overboard drills. We practiced throwing Timmy oveboard (which was really a fender).on Pine. After our intense drills we had soup for lunch, it was very good. We then advanced to our third rotation, waterskiing and wakeboarding. I think it was the best part of the day. As the other kids on the towing boat did wakeboarding I did not, I tried waterskiing and almost got up. When we got back we had a dive chat and prepared for our final test for after dinner.
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day. When we woke up we started breakfast. We then rushed through dishes so we could start our first rotation, diving. It was our last confined water dive. After the dive we proceeded to our second rotation, man overboard drills. We practiced throwing Timmy oveboard (which was really a fender).on Pine. After our intense drills we had soup for lunch, it was very good. We then advanced to our third rotation, waterskiing and wakeboarding. I think it was the best part of the day. As the other kids on the towing boat did wakeboarding I did not, I tried waterskiing and almost got up. When we got back we had a dive chat and prepared for our final test for after dinner.
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Day 9
Author: Scotty H.
Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day at Mountain Point. Tucker and Will tied the stern of Roam to shore and we created a dive pen with Royal Troon for the last confined dive for open water divers. There was a stress test where divemasters had to completely exchange gear while sharing one regulator underwater. After our third rotation the divemasters and Will and Scotty got to snorkel Mountain Point to scout tonight's night dive. Tuscan bean soup and chicken caesar salad for dinner were big hits. We pulled up our anchors before dinner and picked up a mooring ball right next to our dive site tonight. Beautiful sunset!
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Location: Mountain Point, Virgin Gorda
Today was a rotation day at Mountain Point. Tucker and Will tied the stern of Roam to shore and we created a dive pen with Royal Troon for the last confined dive for open water divers. There was a stress test where divemasters had to completely exchange gear while sharing one regulator underwater. After our third rotation the divemasters and Will and Scotty got to snorkel Mountain Point to scout tonight's night dive. Tuscan bean soup and chicken caesar salad for dinner were big hits. We pulled up our anchors before dinner and picked up a mooring ball right next to our dive site tonight. Beautiful sunset!
Flickr Photos from Today
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