A new dawn
Location: West End, Tortola
Today featured a busy morning preparing and stocking the boat in preparation for everyones arrival later. All three of us have been frantically packing every spare bit of space with food and snacks to keep us fed and happy over the next 21 days.
Right now all three of us are finishing up the last bit of cleaning and scrubbing to get everything clean and ready from everyone to arrive. We’re all so excited to meet everyone and to get going on our awesome voyage.
On the subject of us here’s a little intro to the team that will be helping to run Porto Feliz:
First up is our skipper and medic Tom. He was born and raised in London, Tom studied at Imperial College and Southampton University and brings a background in engineering and problem-solving to every boat he leads. Having spent some time working as an engineer he returns to the sea to help inspire others to love it like he does. Outside of ActionQuest he works as a freelance engineer and sailing instructor, combining creativity with practical experience. Tom brings professionalism, flexibility, and a calm teaching style to every boat. With a strong background in both seamanship and mentorship, he’s excited to help students build skills, grow as a team, and experience the adventure of life at sea.
Next up is our dive instructor Kaitlyn. Kaitlyn grew up in Chicago but fell in love with scuba diving after her family moved to Florida. During high school, she continued earning certifications with ActionQuest and eventually became an instructor herself. She now attends Cornell University, where she studies Government and teaches Open Water Scuba through the PE department. In her free time, she loves running and trying out new recipes!
Last but definitely not least our dual role Mate/ Dive Master James! James grew up in New York City, but spent his summers sailing Maine’s Penobscot Bay, where he fell in love with the sea. He has sailed for over a decade and has worked as a sailing instructor for 5 years. He is a seasoned racer, competing in regattas up and down the coast of New England in Optis and 420s. After graduating high school, he sailed from Rome to Antigua aboard S/Y Vela, earning his 200-ton captain’s license. He now attends the Royal Welsh College in Wales.