Staff Update- The Summer is Off to a Great Start!
Location: West End, Tortola
The setup has come to a close, and we are so excited about the students' arrival! Doug, Nikki, and I cannot wait to set sail for the first time this summer! We have an awesome range of students onboard, from people who are taking their first breaths underwater, to those becoming professional divers with a divemaster certification. From dinghy sailing, snorkeling, hiking, and a lot of diving, we know it will be an amazing trip. More to come from Southern Accent!
Here is an introduction to the crew of Southern Accent:
Monika- skipper
Monika got involved with ActionQuest as a Sea|mester student in 2009. She grew up in the water and spent a lot of time outdoors. Monika is a PADI divemaster and holds an IYT Master of Yachts 200 Tons. She has a BA in art history from the University of Florida and is excited to be living in Florence, Italy in the fall.
Doug- dive instructor/mate
Doug is from Hadley, MA and grew up boating with his grandparents in Florida. He developed a great love for being on the water in Florida, and in high school Doug discovered ActionQuest. He was a shipmate for two summers before staying on as staff. Doug has been working with ActionQuest for four years. His professional qualifications include PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and EFR Instructor.
Nikki- dive instructor/mate
Growing up in California, Georgia, and Oregon, Nikki to spent most of her time in the water and outdoors. Her love of animals and the ocean fueled her interest in scuba. She recently graduated from Oregon State University with degrees in Zoology and Communications. While attending OSU Nikki became a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and assisted with the OSU scuba program.