Eight students from the Cayman International School G4 class got their sea legs when they went for an underwater walk on Friday.
Taking a walk underwater. |
The field trip to learn all about the ecosystem as part of their science class was led by class teacher Jodie McDonalds.
Also joining the excursion group, who had lots of questions, were some supportive parents.
Before entering the water for the 25 minute walk, students were briefed on safety precautions and instructed in the use of the underwater helmets by Sea Trek captain Dusty Normon and crew member Devon Clark.
Some of the students were a little hesitant to enter the water but once they got under everyone seemed to be very comfortable enjoying the experience, said the class teacher.
‘The students saw a puffer fish, a parrot fish and a sting ray. Some of them even remarked how wonderful it was to be so close to the fish. When one fish swam right in front of their helmets they thought that was very neat.’
Operating for only a week, the new underwater adventure was a big hit with the students as well as the National Trust, who want to make it a part of their programme, said owner Ben Tresidder.
The Sea Trek has seven crew members on board and operates from behind the Lobster Pot.
Individuals are taken out on a tender to the Sea Trek boat from which they enter the water.
Geared with the utmost safety concerns and definitely environmentally friendly, the walk caters for persons eight years and up, even those who cannot swim, said Mr. Tresidder.
The walk is 25 minutes in 30 feet of water. A white underwater helmet is placed on the head. After entering the water competent divers assist the individual down a ladder to the sea bed. From there individual are taken along a handrail walkway which is embedded into the sand for individuals to inspect corals and sea life.
‘The reason for the hand rail is so that divers cannot touch the coral, which would cause damage,’ said Mr. Tresidder.
The Sea Trek Company, which is part of the Reef Alliance to protect marine life, is very committed to protecting the reef structure – so much that they have marketed a ‘reef strong’ wrist band which is available to divers.
The tours are free for school groups as the company wants to promote awareness of the importance of taking care of the coral reefs, perk up their interest in diving and give visitors and locals alike a chance to add it to their dive holiday.
Other companies which offer a walk underwater operate in Jamaica, the Bahamas, Mexico, China and Sea World. According to Mr. Tresidder these walks have been going on for more than years and there have not been any records of incidents.
The underwater sea walk is open to resident for CI$40 ages eight and up. Call Rich Tresidder for reservations on 928-0008.
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