We ended our trip to the BVI by having another awesome breakfast at Olde Yard. Then we watched a free diving movie while we waited for a person who was going to give us a presentation on turtle tagging. Once he came we learned about the different types of measurements, tags, and catch/release methods. We then put these things into practice as we went turtle tagging for a little while. We saw and attempted to catch a bunch, but we were only able to catch one. He took it onto the boat and the turtle tagging expert put on the tags and took the measurements. He then released the turtle back in the water when it swam away as fast as it could. After this we went back to Olde Yard. While we waited for the food, Jeff showed us how to hold our breath for long periods of time. The first time I tried I got 1 minute and 9 seconds, but after two more attempts, I was able to get my time up to 2 minutes 17 seconds. After this we went in and ate lunch. We then took our final exam where each buddy team answered two questions written by the dive instructors, Doc, or Mr. Kirby. After this we went back to the cabins and got ready for the final banquet. At the final banquet we ate and then watched a slideshow with a bunch of pictures the dive instructors took. This video helped remind me of some of the great times we had on this trip. Then everyone talked about the trip for a little while before we went back to our cabins.
This trip was absolutely incredible, and there are a few people I want to thank in my final blog. First, I would like to think the Guavaberry resort staff. The accommodations they provided were absolutely incredible. I could not have asked for anything more. We would leave our room a mess and come back to it perfectly cleaned. I didn’t expect the cabins to be a place where I would enjoy spending time, but in the end I was proven wrong since I probably could have lived there.
Also, I would like to think our driver, Glen. At all hours of the day, from 5:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. he was on time to pick us up. I can’t think him enough for what he did. Without him, this trip would not have been possible.
Third, I would like to think the Dive BVI staff. They would stay up later and wake up earlier doing tasks that helped get ready for the next day. Even with the little sleep, they were still more energetic than the rest of us all six days. They were also incredible guides. Without them, I would not have been able to see most of the stuff I saw. They were some of the nicest people I have ever met, always having a smile on their face even when the rest of us were to tired to show any emotion at all. I can’t put into words just how much they did for us or how thankful I am for all of it.
Lastly, I would like to think Dr. Gruninger and Mr. Kirby. Two years ago plans for this class started getting made. Now, just a short time later, it has turned into an incredible experience I will never forget. They taught me a ton over these three weeks of class. They were also really nice to be around. I never saw them angry once even though there was a lot of stress put on them this trip. They gave us the perfect amount of freedom without letting us get out of control. I can say with some certainty that I would have never seen the BVI without these two individuals.
