On the island of Maui, a snorkeling trip becomes a learning experience for children and adults alike when utilizing Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.
Before the Snorkeling Adventure
At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment Center at the Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua, Maui, a special snorkeling program is offered several days a week. It begins with fitting participants with snorkel gear and proceeds with an enlightening visual program highlighting what to expect while snorkeling and what can be observed on an underwater adventure.
Included in the presentation are the principles of the Ocean Futures Society, which focus on clean water, preserving and protecting marine habitats, being cognizant of marine mammals, and sustaining the natural resources of the ocean. The slides and video footage remind the soon-to-be snorkelers that the ocean is a living world, and thus needs to be encountered as another civilization.
Each snorkeler is provided with an underwater camera to document his or her journey and is also reminded to enjoy the beauty of the undersea world, capture it on film, and respect the fragile environment.
Learning while Experiencing with Qualified Instructors
Oceanographers, naturalists, and a well-trained staff of marine biologists lead the snorkeling program and other opportunities for participation at the Environmental Center. We were fortunate enough to have Kevin Highfield, an experienced and well-educated team member, as our guide. During the opening presentation, Kevin described the undersea world from the development of a coral reef to the fish, turtle and plant population that survives there.
Kevin carefully walked the group through all preparations needed to fully sense the impact of entering the world beneath the surface. His complete explanations gave even novice snorkelers confidence and offered those who had previously enjoyed a snorkeling trip some added information. Because of his instructions, looking at life below the water was soon to become a heightened experience.
Entering the World Beneath the Ocean’s Surface
The program offered by the Ambassadors of the Environment is entitled “Cities Beneath the Sea,” and once the snorkeler enters the water and peers below it, it is evident that there is a different world to view. The images from the video watched at the center now come into focus and the teachings of marine biologist, Kevin, open up a new world of discovery. Colorful reefs, bright hued fish, ocean plant life, large turtles the size of small children and the beauty of it all fill the snorkeler with awe and wonder.
Possibly most surprising of all, after having seen the video and hearing Kevin’s explanations, was the abundance and variety of coral. For a snorkeler who had previously viewed underwater sites, this experience was truly different. There was now an understanding of the underwater world and especially a new appreciation of coral reefs. Kevin brought to the surface some specimens that appeared to be colorful coral, but in actuality were various types of starfish. He allowed each of us to carefully touch and inspect these creatures and then he patiently took each back to its undersea home.
Some of those on the trip were able to dive to the bottom and experience sea life at close hand. Their exuberance upon returning to the surface was catching. Having been presented with knowledge before entering the water and having some understanding of what it takes to create the Cities Beneath the Sea made for an enriching and intriguing adventure.
Source: Press Kit Brochures from Ocean Futures Society
Ethel Brodie - Intrigued by the world, encouraged to write my observations, published in newspapers and magazines, and sharing special places.
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