Staff Update Day 1
Location: West End, Tortola
After loads of preparation completed by the office team throughout the year and on-site here in the BVI, the time has finally come for shipmates to arrive. We are so excited to welcome them on board and begin sharing our love of the Caribbean Sea and the beautiful BVI with them! Our incredible team has been working hard to ensure all the necessary equipment has been tested and is properly prepped for our trip. Fuel, water, food, educational materials, and other gear has been loaded onboard our vessels. Lascaris, a 51-foot monohull, will house students working towards earning their basic sailing certifications along with a PADI Open Water Scuba Diver certification.
Here is an introduction of the crew on Lascaris:
Griffin: Skipper
Griffin was born and raised in Omaha, Nebraska and grew up sailing in northern Minnesota. He found his true passion for sailing after he completed the Indian Ocean passage with Seamester as a student. Griffin is a sailing and medical professional, with multiple specialties in yacht engineering. He loves cruising around the Virgin Islands, visiting the locals, and inspiring young sailors.
Hannah: Dive Instructor/Mate
Hannah started at ActionQuest as a shipmate in 2014. After three summers in the BVI, she went on to become a PADI instructor, with the goal of certifying her younger sister when she is old enough. Hannah’s love of the ocean has driven not only her passion for diving but also her interest in conservation and sustainable development. She is currently studying environmental engineering at Cornell and also teaches open water scuba at the school. When she is not diving, Hannah loves skiing, snowboarding, reading, and surfing.
Nick: Mate/WFR
Nick is a fun-loving sailor who grew up powerboating on the Chesapeake Bay. He eventually transitioned to sailing when he went to sailing camp in Annapolis. Nick recently completed an ocean crossing from South Africa to Antigua with Seamester, then went on to work on Schooner Woodwind. He is a Wilderness First Responder and 200 Ton Yachtmaster and is eager to teach his passion for sailing to others. When he’s not on the water, you can find Nick at Lifeline Horse Rescue and Rehab helping horses in need, leading student volunteers, and managing barn operations.