Teacher's Message
Welcome to the British Virgin Islands Sailing/Snorkeling Adventure:
The British Virgin Islands are a chain of 40 islands, volcanic in origin, that our world renowned as a premier sailing destination. Warm clear sheltered water, steady trade winds and fringing coral reefs makes circumnavigating the BVI's an unforgettable experience.
Living aboard a sailboat, we will snorkel, hike, beachcomb, study and relax under sail for a week. We will become active members of a crew learning the fundamentals of sailing including basic navigation. An essential part of our experience on board will be working together as a cooperative team. On board our floating home, students will gain an appreciation for the dynamics of group living.
Your Blue Water Ventures naturalists will provide daily snorkeling trips as well as hikes on shore to explore the terrestrial ecosystems. Educational activities such as marine invertebrate labs, fish behavior studies, plankton tows and slide shows will be conducted on board our "floating classroom". The cultural history of the British Virgin Islands will be discussed during hikes. Our week will include a visit to Sage Mountain National Park, where rain forested adapted species thrive at higher elevations.
Each evening students will prepare a delicious meal on board at a different anchorage. Most nights we will be nestled into a secluded bay lined with a sandy beach to comb. On one night, we'll anchor in an area where local Caribbean style music with dancing can be enjoyed. As always, The Blue Water Ventures staff will offer fun, educational and adventurous activities each day.
The trip is being led by Kim Powell, director/owner
of Blue Water Ventures. Kim lived on Tortola for eight summers heading up
a marine biology/sailing program for teenagers. She is excited to share some
of her 'favorite' snorkeling and hiking spots with you, places that many tourist
don't see. Kim will be joined by another competent naturalist guide who also
relates well to students.
FLIGHTS TO THE BVIs: There are several options for travel to the British
Virgin Islands. After reviewing information in the following package, we suggest
that you consult your travel agent who may also advise you on travel insurance.
TRIP COST: The cost of the BVIs Sailing/Snorkeling program is the following:
8-14 students: $1695 15-20 students: $1495
spring rate (January-May)
8-14 students: $1595 15-20 students: $1395 summer rate (June-August)
This fee includes one school chaperone at
no charge with 8-9 students with a second school chaperone at no charge with
10 or more students). This fee includes all sailing expenses, entrance fees,
meals, scheduled airport transfers, and naturalist guide services. The price
does not include airfare, phone calls, unscheduled excursions, extra soft
drinks, tips or the departure tax of $10. American dollars are the official
exchange in the BVIs.
NEXT STEP: If you are interested in discussing options further, please
give us a call. We can guide you through the process of selecting dates, travel
arrangements and a program that suits your educational interests. Your contract
with prices, payment schedule and other pertinent information will be sent
to you. A slide show is available upon request. .....
Very Sincerely,
Kim Powell,
Owner
Blue Water Ventures
(831) 459-8548
www.bluewaterventures.org
