Island Times Blog

What a perfect start to our FATHOMS Voyage 1, 2013 voyage! We spent the day at the University of the Virgin Island’s Center for Marine and Environmental Studies (CMES). We learned about the CMES research and toured the labs and facilities. We practiced our coral identification skills using specimens in the lab (continued…)

After lunch we boarded one of the University’s dive boats with Captain Steve (also UVI’s Director of SCUBA Instruction) and headed out to Saba Rock for an amazing snorkel. It was the first time any SeaTrek group had visited this beautiful marine and bird reserve. Rarely do we get to see so many sea birds! We continued practicing our coral identification and found several beautiful, healthy corals. We returned to the campus for lunch and learned about the ecology and coastal ecosystems of the Virgin Islands. Then it was time to head back to the hotel for some food and showers and a discussion about the invasive lionfish and the turtle tagging & monitoring program we participate in for the BVI’s Conservation and Fisheries Department – it’s definitely one of our students’ favorite service learning activities. Can’t wait to head to St. John tomorrow for more adventures!!!