Our third session shipmates are on their way, and the staff of Second Wind couldn't be more excited to welcome them aboard. We're finishing up final preparations on both our vessel as well as on Phantom, our supporting dinghy. We've loaded all of the food, snacks, equipment, and dive gear we'll need for our trip and can't wait to cast off our lines and get going. Our skipper Matt has done many tours around the BVI's and is itching to get his sails filled once more. Jess -- dive instructor and marine biologist -- can't wait to get underway and start working with the Dolphin shipmates on their marine biology classes, diving skills, and research projects. Dive instructor and medic Tina are ready to get back in the water with the Neptune's to develop their advanced diving skills, all while ensuring that everyone on the boat is healthy and happy. Our voyage will take us all over the British Virgin Islands, and, during our circumnavigation of Tortola, we will get to see, dive, and explore some amazing locations. (That's not even mentioning the hikes, BBQs, and dance parties we're going to have!) Try not to miss us too much -- we're going to have a fantastic adventure and will see you back on land in three weeks. Be sure to keep up to date with our blog to hear about all the fun we're having underway!
Here's an introduction to the crew of Second Wind:
Matt: skipper/dive instructor/MPIC
Matt is a returning staff member as a skipper and medical staff member. He attends Eckerd University and is majoring in marine biology. In his off time, he likes to produce music and go on short walks to the refrigerator.
Tina: dive instructor/medic/mate
After spending a semester abroad with Sea|Mester in 2008, Tina became absorbed with the marine world. She graduated from Bard College with a BA in Environmental Studies in 2010, after which she turned her attention to scuba diving. Tina has worked as a Divemaster and Instructor in Central America, Europe, and the US. She holds qualifications such as PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer, USCG Medical Person in Charge, PADI Emergency First Response Instructor (including Care for Children), and eleven specialty instructor ratings. As of spring 2015, Tina has finished her graduate studies at New York University, receiving an MA in Environmental Conservation Education. She is thrilled to be returning for her fourth summer with ActionQuest. When not underwater, Tina can be found playing her viola, trying out new recipes in the galley, and planning her next dive.
Jess: dive instructor/mate
Jess was born in London, UK, with a love of the sea right from the start. She started diving at 15 and has traveled the world since, teaching SCUBA and conducting marine research. Jess holds a degree in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology and a Master's degree in Biodiversity and Conservation. When not working on ActionQuest, Jess is also working towards a Ph.D. in Environmental Management, working with local developing communities in South East Asia to improve the effectiveness of Marine Protected Areas. Jess is a PADI MSDT and HSE Commercial SCUBA diver with experience in designing and running marine monitoring and survey programs and media experience, including working on a BBC documentary.
