Seychelles Dive Log #4

By the Numbers: Bi-Weekly Dive Log
Dive #37	24/5/2011
Dive Time: 08:37	Bottom Time: 45 minutes
Max Depth: 16.1 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 16-18 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi ? 2000 psi
Gear: 3/4 full weightsuit, 4lb weights
Notes: LIT/INV Survey @ Auberge Reef (Deep Right) w/Shelby. SMB. Time In/Out - 08:37/09:22, Start/End- 08:42/09:05. Depth Profile-Min/Max: 6.4/16 meters; Start/End: 11.4/13.1 meters. Surge: 0.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1692 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #38	24/5/2011
Dive Time: 10:19	Bottom Time: 42 minutes
Max Depth: 7 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 16-18 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi ? 2000 psi
Gear: 3/4 full wetsuit, 4lb weights
Notes: LIT/INV Survey @ Auberge Reef (Shallow Right) w/Shelby. SMB. Time In/Out - 10:19/11:02, Start/End- 10:28/10:48. Depth Profile-Min/Max: 2.8/6.3 meters; Start/End: 6.1/6.3 meters. Surge: 0.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1734 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #39	25/5/2011
Dive Time: 15:43	Bottom Time: 49 minutes
Max Depth: 10.9 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi ? 2100 psi
Gear: LS rashguard, No weights
Notes: Turtle Dive w/Will, no turtles spotted, high plankton concentration
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1783 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #40	26/5/2011
Dive Time: 11:55	Bottom Time: 48 minutes
Max Depth: 10.4 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2100 psi ? 1900 psi
Gear: 3/4 full wetsuit, 4lb weights
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt @ Site X (Transect A) w/Simon SMB. Min/Mag/Max-2.3/6.3/10; Start/End-8.4/4.4 meters. Time Start/End: 11:59-12:35. Surge 3/4. Urchined in the right outer thigh through wetsuit, Simon badly urchined in the right arm.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1831 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #41	27/5/2011
Dive Time: 13:04	Bottom Time: 48 minutes
Max Depth: 13.6 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi ? 2100 psi
Gear: 3/4 full wetsuit, 4lb weights
Notes: LIT/INV Survey @ Whale Rock (Deep Right) w/Will. SMB. Time In/Out - 13:04/13:51, Start/End- 13:07/13:38. Depth Profile-Min/Max: 6.5/16 meters; Start/End: 11.8/12.3 meters. Surge: 2.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1879 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #42	27/5/2011
Dive Time: 15:23	Bottom Time: 51 minutes
Max Depth: 11.5 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi ? 2000 psi
Gear: 3/4 full wetsuit, 4lb weights
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt @ Whale Rock (Transect B) w/Simon SMB. Min/Mag/Max-2.8/6.3/10; Start/End-10/4.9 meters. Time Start/End: 15:29-16:10. Surge 1. Saw a Reef Octopus and 2 lion fish!
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1930 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters

WK 8: Seize the Day, Hold It Close & Let Go

Cap Matoopa, Mahe, Seychelles

Without getting too philosophical- life is short; time is precious; and happiness is simply a state of mind. Week 7 shook me up a bit and had me all out of sorts, but I'm on the upside of down and life could not be any better for it. I returned to the water over the weekend, celebrating the moment by attempting the Marathon Snorkel. Officially back in the water, I was diving and surveying with gusto during Week 8.

*****

The ocean held nothing back as it welcomed myself and other expedition members into its waters over the weekend. After a week on land, I'd have expected nothing less, but even so attempting the Marathon Snorkel under such circumstances intensified the experience. It was the roughest weather I've seen in the Seychelles yet. Expedition members donned their fins and fearlessly dove into the fury, seconds later swallowed by the swell. I gathered my wits and followed suit and was tossed into Conception Channel for the first leg of the journey.


Base Camp at Sunset, Cap Matoopa

The 3 mile snorkel was an entirely different experience from the first swim. Firstly, I don't know whether or not to classify the endeavor as a marathon snorkel or surf event. The swell was incredible, like liquid mountains. On top of that, the water was incredibly turbid due to a high plankton concentration so there wasn't much to see. And lastly, everyone swam the route in reverse, from Back Beach to the Bay. This last twist to the day ensured that the current was with us as we navigated through Conception Channel. All factors cultivated into an epic endeavor which served as a charity snorkel for the children of President's Village.
Rounding off the weekend, I trekked up Cap Matoopa for a solo night beneath the stars. I meandered up the overgrown path just before sunset and set up "camp" as the sky set fire. I watched from my perch as the sky metamorphosized, shifting hues and while stars poked holes through the atmosphere. I counted my blessings as thoughts of friends and family kept me company. The distant sound of the ocean lulled me to sleep as consciousness drifted out with the tide.

The fruits of my terrestrial endeavors

My first dive day was postponed until Tuesday, but it was well worth the wait- I completed my first double tanker! The double tanker surveys are conducted just like any other survey dive, except that each diver hauls 2 tanks on board for back-to-back dives. This method of diving is much more efficient, because it allows the completion of a survey site in one boat outing. More dive for your boat- it's the best way to dive!

On Thursday, I was expected to complete two survey dives. Scheduled for a Coral Diversity Belt at Site X and a LIT/INV Survey in Baie Ternay, I looked forward to a day in the water. Site X started off well enough, though the surge was quite intense as my buddy Simon laid the measuring tape down against rocks and crevices. All seemed to be in order.

Giving the "OK" signal at 50 meters, we began our coral diversity count. Grasping for any bare rock to combat the surge, we managed to complete the 50 meter belt with time to spare. But, as we reeled in the tape over the last clifface, Simon's weight belt fell off. As he attempted to hand me the tape, the surge smashed him into an urchin that had nested itself on the rock. His right arm took the full force of the blow. I swam down to retrieve the tape as Simon managed to rebuckle his weights and clear away from the rocks. As I juggled with the SMB and tape measure, another swell swept me into the same urchin nest. Thankfully, I was wearing a 3/4mm wetsuit, but the spines still managed to penetrate the protective layer. At first my thigh felt like it was on fire. The intensity of the pain dulled within moments, but with every fin kick it felt like someone was punching my thigh. Simon and I could only grit our teeth and shake our heads as we bared our trophies to the rest of the expedition.

Liz looks after the 3 urchined amigos


Since I was urchined, I gave my second dive to another Invert diver and returned to base for treatment. Staff set up a bin of hot water in the kitchen for the injured while we squeezed lime on top to help dissolve the spines. In the end, urchins got the best of a total of three divers at Site X- but we won the day since Site X was succesfully surveyed.

This past week will be one that stands out in my mind for sure. The water gave me its all and I swam straight into the swell. It was another 7 days of learning, growing, and "building character". There were epic highs and a few surprising twists and turns that have kept me on my toes. Friends and family were held close to my heart as I fought my aquatic demons and wrestled with struggles on land. I've persevered and look forward to the last few weeks on base before moving to Beau Vallon for Divemaster training.

*****

Thank you, Mom, Dad, and Phil for the mail! It means the world to me to have received word from you. I love you with all my heart!

WK 7: Fish Out of Water

Cap Matoopa, Mahe, Seychelles

We've all heard it before, but the difference between a stepping or stumbling stone is the way we use it. but it's not just a matter of utilisation, mindset is key- and a clear head (plus all the supportive people on base) is what pulled me through a mentally and physically draining week. I am better for the wear - surely these experiences are the building blocks and mortar of character - stepping not stumbling.

*****

WK 6's title (Life is not what you look at, it is what you Sea) flashed like a marque across my vision daily. Struggling and striving to maintain clear sight despite the circumstances that arose. Under siege, I found Week 7 one of the most mentally and physically demanding as a battle waged within my body. I found solace on base in seclusion beneath one of the many fruit trees, closing my eyes to see clearer. Life is what you see, sea, see...

The Hunt begins

It all started on Sunday. I was uncannily fatigued by early evening. "It's the granola," I declared- the hunt for coconuts, then husking, grating, and baking took a full 9 hours. "Anyone would be tired after such work." I muttered to myself as I lay sprawled across a crooked wooden bench, waiting for a batch of granola to golden. I pushed aside the curious ache in my thigh and sore knee as the consequence of routine wear and tear (despite its peculiarity). Sure my knee was swollen around a coral cut, a 'token' of a survey dive. Yes, I could feel enlarged lymph glands acutely with every movement, no pain no gain they say. And when I saw a prominent red line running up my thigh from the knee I convinced myself it was no cause for concern.

Tough love

Thankfully, someone else saw things with a slightly more informed perspective. I was called off Monday's dive (and subsequently my leadership day) for a trip into town to visit the doctor. I didn't protest or stubbornly refute as I've been trained to do over the years. Instead, I took a deep breath and saw the situation clearly, realizing my innate fragility. I humbly accepted the opportunity to be treated before problems escalated out of hand. The doctor prescribed antibiotics for a week, ibuprofen for 3 days, and recommended no diving for at least 2 days. Despite the limiting diagnosis, I was grateful that people were looking out for me and silently hoped I could learn to do the same.

I felt quite mobile thanks to the ibuprofen (though let me be the first to say I wish I could have gone without it). The pain was dulled and the swelling lessened to such an extent that my terrestrial endeavors were essentially unhindered. I remained content knowing I was still an active member of the expedition out of the water. It was better to let myself go with the flow of things, than to struggle against the land bound current. I'd drift back out to sea in due time.

Hunting from a  2nd story ledge

Keeping my outlook positive, the following dry days were occupied with base duties and fruit(ful) hunts. Scouring base and the surrounding area for fruit- I saw the terrain with new found appreciation. My eyes quickly learned to spot the best mango, breadfruit, coconut, starfruit, banana, and guava. The hunts kept my head up in more ways than one, and every time I returned to base with sacks full of bounty.

Midweek I had a bit of an unsettling surprise when the lymph glands on the opposite side of my body swelled. Playing it safe (a new game, I'm learning) I revisited the doctor. He decided to maintain my prescription, but extended my out of water time through the week's end and cautioned that I should not over exert myself. The diagnosis, while not unexpected, tested the fortitude of my foundation as my manner of coping, fruit hunting and being as active on base as possible, would have to be toned down over the next few days. It was a hard fact to take, but I took a deep breath and knew a few days rest would be worth the next few months in the water. Clear mind, clear vision. See, sea, see...

By week's end, I was more than a little antsy and struggling to keep good spirits. Day after day of hovering around base had drained all mental energy. Limiting myself to such an extent is not an exercise with which I've skills to any degree. However, every moment in the water from here on out will be that much more fulfilling and I can say for certain that though it hurt, I've grown by leaps and bounds.

Seychelles Dive Log #3

By the Numbers: Bi-Weekly Dive Log
Dive #26	18/4/2011
Dive Time: 10:47	Bottom Time: 39 minutes
Max Depth: 14.6 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Liz, Shelby, Julia. ID: *Cycloseris → Fungia (serrated septa!), Physogyra, Galaxea, Mycedium, Lobophyllia, Pocillopora, Goniopora, *Montipora → Porites, Hydnophora, Herpolitha, Lobophyllia, Acropora, *Echinophyllia (Just didn't know the name!), Hydnophora, Porites, Turbinaria, Pachyseris, Favites
Seychelles Bottom Time: 571 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #14	19/4/2011
Dive Time: 10:12	Bottom Time: 53 minutes
Max Depth: 11.4 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 140 bar
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Meg, Jack. ID: 29 corals
Seychelles Bottom Time: 624 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #15	19/4/2011
Dive Time: 13:57	Bottom Time: 49 minutes
Max Depth: 8.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Colin, John. ID: Trouble distinguishing between Goniastrea and Gardenoseris
Seychelles Bottom Time: 673 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #16	20/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:12	Bottom Time: 41 minutes
Max Depth: 16.9 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 3-8 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Turtle Dive w/Dan, no turtles. Incredibly turbid, deep water at drop off site.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 714 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #17	21/4/2011
Dive Time: 08:39	Bottom Time: 47 minutes
Max Depth: 6.8 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 2100 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Dive for Earth Day with Amelia, John, Adam. Picked garbage off the reef, saw 3 thorny back rays, moray eel, stone fish, lion fish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 761 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #18	22/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:09	Bottom Time: 52 minutes
Max Depth: 5.2 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: 2mm Neoprene Jacket, 2 lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Julia, Susane. We've begun logging the life form of each coral colony along with scientific family and genus names.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 813 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #19	22/4/2011
Dive Time: 15:42	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 10 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2500 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: 2mm Neoprene Jacket, 2 lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Vanessa, Will, Amelia. Saw a nudibranch and moray eel!
Seychelles Bottom Time: 863 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #20	25/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:07	Bottom Time: 45 minutes
Max Depth: 14.2 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Turtle Dive w/Meg. No turtles, though did spot a crown of thorns starfish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 908 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #21	26/4/2011
Dive Time: 13:51	Bottom Time: 47 minutes
Max Depth: 6.5 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral/Invert Spot Dive w/Liz, Julia, Susanne. ID: SB Goniopora Porites, MS Platygyra Faviidae, FO Mycedium Pectiniidae, TB Acropora Acroporidae, EC Fungia Fungiidae (recruit), EC Lobophyllia Mussidae, Giant Clam, Flowerfish, Bohadschia, Giant Conch, Cowrie, Barracuda
Seychelles Bottom Time: 955 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #22	27/4/2011
Dive Time: 12:22	Bottom Time: 51 minutes
Max Depth: 11.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 220 bar → 160 bar
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral/Invert Spot Dive w/Liz, Meg, Julia. ID: Montastrea EC, Platygyra MV, Acropora EC, Diploastrea EC, Favia MV. Nudibranchs, Short Spine Sea Urchins, Giant Clams, Cushion Sea Star, Feather Star, Christmastree Worm, Stichopus, Bohadschia, Actinopyga, Flowerfish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1006 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #23	28/4/2011
Dive Time: 11:40	Bottom Time: 55 minutes
Max Depth: 8.6 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi ? 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: 50 meter Coral Diversity Belt, Practice Methodology w/Grace, Meg. Depth Profile: 2 - 16 meters w/Magic Line @ 6 meters, Starting Depth @ 8.3 meters, Ending Depth @ 5.6 meters. Survey Start: 11:52. Survey End: 12:35. 50% survey site completion. Corals Present Right of LIT: Acropora, Montipora, Astreopora, Porites, Goniopora, Pocillopora, Stylophora, Lobophyllia, Acanthastrea, Turbinaria, Fungia, Stylocoeniella, Hydnophora, Psammocora, Coscinarea, Pavona, Leptoseris, Montastrea, Favia, Favites, Leptastrea, Cyphastrea, Goniastrea, Diploastrea, *Oulophyllia (hidden in a crevice). Commercial Inverts & Cucumbers: 1 Bohadschia.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1061 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #24	29/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:26	Bottom Time: 59 minutes
Max Depth: 11.8 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 12-15 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 140 bar
Gear: No weights, No rashguard
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Grace, Meg. Depth Profile: 3.1 - 12 meters w/Magic Line @ 6 meters. Survey Start: 14:30. Survey End: 15:16. 80% survey site completion. Surge Rating: 1. Corals Present Right of LIT: Acropora, Montipora, Astreopora, Porites, Goniopora, Pocillopora, Stylophora, Acanthastrea, Turbinaria, Hydnophora, Psammocora, Coscinarea, Pavona, Leptoseris, Montastrea, Favia, Favites, Leptastrea, Cyphastrea, Goniastrea, Diploastrea. Commercial Inverts & Cucumbers: 2 Actinopyga.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1120 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #25	29/4/2011
Dive Time: 16:20	Bottom Time: 54 minutes
Max Depth: 9.8 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 12-15 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 130 bar
Gear: No weights, no rashguard
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Lee, Meg. Depth Profile: 2.3 - 10 meters w/Magic Line @ 3.1 meters. Survey Start: 16:24. Survey End: 17:03. 60% survey site completion. Surge Rating: 2. Difficulty coping with surge, attacked by branching Acropora. Considering wearing a wetsuit for some protection.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1174 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #26	2/5/2011
Dive Time: 14:03	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 9.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1600 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Grace, Meg. Depth profile: Min 2.1, Magic 5.6, Max 10. Starting Depth: 7.8 meters, Ending Depth 2.8 meters. Time: 2:06-2:41 Corals Present: Acropora, Acanthastrea, Echinopora, Favia, Favites, Goniastrea, Leptastrea, Platygyra, Pavona, Pocillopora, Psammocora, Turbinaria. Saw a large Devil Ray during our safety stop!
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1224 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #27	3/5/2011
Dive Time: 07:42	Bottom Time: 45 minutes
Max Depth: meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: 3/4mm full wetsuit, 4lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt Survey-BTNW (Lighthouse, Transect A) w/Jack. Depth profile: Min 2.3, Magic 5.8, Max 15.8. Starting Depth: 6.5 meters, Ending Depth: 3.5 meters. Time: 07:46
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1269 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #28	3/5/2011
Dive Time: 13:21	Bottom Time: 5 minutes
Max Depth: 6.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → 2700 psi
Gear: 3/4mm full wetsuit, 4lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt Survey-Willy's Bay Point (Transect A) w/Jack. Depth profile: Min 2.1, Magic 5.6, Max 10. Tank valve was closed. Incomplete survey due to malfunctioning tape measure.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1274 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #29	9/5/2011
Dive Time: 14:43	Bottom Time: 36 minutes
Max Depth: 8.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 0 psi
Gear: No weights
Notes: Invert Methodology w/Ro, Vero. Freeflowing regulator.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1305 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #30	9/5/2011
Dive Time: 14:11	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 9.4 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights
Notes: Invert Methodology w/Tai, Dan.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1355 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #31	10/5/2011
Dive Time: 09:52	Bottom Time: 49 minutes
Max Depth: 8.9 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → 2000 psi
Gear: Longsleeve Rashguard, No weights
Notes: Invert Methodology w/Ro, Meg. BTNE Survey Time: 9:56-10:22
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1404 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #32	10/5/2011
Dive Time: 15:58	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 6.8 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 2000 psi
Gear: LS rashguard beneath 2mm neoprene jacket, 4lbs weight belt
Notes: Invert Methodology w/Liz, Meg. Min/Max: 5.5/10 meters; Start/End: 6.1/6.8 meters; BTNE Survey Time: 16:05-16:41
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1454 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #33	11/5/2011
Dive Time: 09:02	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 9.4 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi ? 1900 psi
Gear: LS rashguard, No weights
Notes: Invert Methodology w/Ro, Meg. Min/Max: 6.5/16 meters; Start/End: 8.2/9.3 meters; BTNE Survey Time: 09:07-09:45
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1504 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #34	11/5/2011
Dive Time: 13:11	Bottom Time: 47 minutes
Max Depth: 8.9 meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 12-14 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: LS rashguard, No weights
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Adam. Site Y (Transect A). Depth Profile: Min/Magic/Max: 2.7/6.2/10 meters, Start/End:8.6/7.4 meters. Time Start/End: 13:14-13:52.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1551 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #35	12/5/2011
Dive Time: 11:45	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: meters	Water Temperature: 27
Visibility: 12-14 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → 2000 psi
Gear: LS rashguard, No weights
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt @ BTNE (Transect B) w/Adam. SMB. Min/Mag/Max-2.9/6.4/16; Start/End-7.6/5.7 meters. Time Start/End: 11:55-12:33. Surge 2/3. No cucumbers!
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1601 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #36	13/5/2011
Dive Time: 12:48	Bottom Time: 46 minutes
Max Depth: 6.7 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → psi 2100
Gear: LS rashguard, No weights
Notes: LIT/Invert Survey @ Site Y (Shallow Left) w/Will. SMB. Time In/Out- 12:48/13:35, Start/End- 12:53/13:33. Depth Profile-Min/Max: 3.1/6.6 meters; Start/End: 4.9/6.1 meters. Surge: 3.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1647 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters

WK 6: Life is not what you look at, it is what you Sea

Port Luanay, Mahe, Seychelles

There's something that lures the soul to the water's edge and dares us to take the plunge. The young heed the call, tumbling in with boundless energy while those wizened by the tide's constant ebb and flow content themselves harmonizing their thoughts to the breaking waves. There's something here for everyone, from all walks and cross-sections of life. Should you wish for solace, adventure, fun- and anything in between- you'll find it here.

*****

Routine was set in motion as the new 5 weekers integrated themselves into daily life on base. I continued conducting Coral Diversity Belts in and around Baie Ternay and completed my first LIT/Invert survey as well. In addition to learning all the new faces on base and monitoring reefs, I had the opportunity to participate in community work with the International School Seychelles and the President's Village Orphanage in Port Luanay. It was truly a welcome homecoming after the extended weekend.

Coral Diversity Belt survey with Meg

Staff, divemaster interns and 10 weekers facilitated a near flawless transition for the 6 new 5 weekers. The energy has definitely shifted, though it is a welcome change. If life were stagnant, it would cease to be, such is the way of the world and it is no different here. Every one's talents and life experiences are truly appreciated and both new and old expedition members are working hard.

Surveying around the bay continues to retain its excitement. I've completed Coral Diversity Belts at a number of sites this past week with my buddy, Adam. Together, we tackled the surface surge and descended into tricky crevices in search of elusive coral colonies. Extending my aquatic gaze beyond coral, I conducted my first LIT/Invert Survey this past week as well. During these surveys, buddy pairs utilise their respective methodology specialties, benthic or invertebrate organisms. As the invert diver, I tailed my benthic buddy, Will, as we scoured the substrate around our 10 meter line. Despite having much less area to cover, these LIT surveys require sustained focus on minute details and sequestered organisms. Completing the coral diversity belt and LIT surveys has been fun work and extremely fulfilling after hours of study!

ISS and our Love Fish at Port Luanay

Community work punctuated the week with a lesson at on the beach with children from International School Seychelles on Monday. The day's lesson topic was marine adaptations. The children were divided into three groups where myself and other expedition members did our best to retain our 4th graders' attentions as we sat meters from Port Luanay's pristine waters. Once the lesson was completed, each group created a new marine creature utilizing the adaptions taught that day. My group created the most dangerous creature known to all mankind- the love fish. We were warned by the children to be very careful, as its 21 tentacles could ensnare you! Thoroughly amused by all the children's creations, we celebrated the morning's lesson with a few games on the beach before we said our goodbyes.

Snorkel Day with President's Village Orphanage

Friday morning, I returned to Port Luanay for a morning snorkel with children from President's Village Orphanage. There were about 30 girls and boys, ages ranging from 7-11 years old. They arrived and approached timidly, eyeing the snorkel gear with excitement in their eyes. After a brief introduction, the children rushed to fit themselves with masks and fins while others went straight for the beach raft and boogie board. The children were absolutely enthralled with a day on the beach, but even more so by the individual attention garnered. By the end of the morning, a few youngsters had attached themselves to particular expedition members. Cookies and snorkel log books were handed out to the children as parting gifts until our next snorkel day.

Curiously enough, this past week was more refreshing than my extended weekend. The new 5 weekers, surveying sites, and the community work filled the days with vitality and a sense of purpose. Granted, the day-to-day routine laid the foundation, but each day we've been building upon it, creating something beautiful here- life as we live and breathe and dive. It's the end of week 6, though I feel I've been here months, just arriving yesterday...

WK 5: A Breath of Fresh Air

My little corner of the world

It's a reason to get out of bed in the morning; that first deep breath of air circulating life from the top of my head to the tip of my toes. Eyes closed, I envision the sun's first rays shimmering through curtains swaying in the morning breeze and the full day ahead. But as I breathe out and open my eyes, the vision fades to the pitch black of dark-thirty in the morning. I duke it out with a mosquito net and ever-so-gracefully roll out of bed grasping for my headlamp and watch, the movements now routine- hardwired (thankfully) into muscle memory. But routine, even breathing, needs a jump start now and again.

*****

Week five marked the midway point for the coral surveying and monitoring phase of my time here in Seychelles. The days were an adventure with just a hint of the familiar keeping me grounded. It was just the reboot I needed to see through the next five weeks before I begin my divemaster program working at a local dive shop.

Cote D'Or, Praslin, Seychelles

The adventures began with a weekend BBQ in Beau Vallon to celebrate Seychelles' Labor Day. Everyone filed onto a bus early in the morning. Still rubbing the sleep from our eyes, the winding journey over the mountains seemed a dream. We were in Beau Vallon before 10 and people dispersed to various venues: the internet cafe, money changer, and other shops before the fires were lit. We all convened on the beach and met up with members of the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles who cooked up a Creole feast.

Monday and Tuesday should have been a national holidays as well, considering the fact that Meg and I finally completed our practice methodology Coral Diversity Belt! We accomplished the feat with fine tuned precision and were rewarded with our first 'real' survey dives on Tuesday at Baie Ternay Northwest (Lighthouse) and Willy's Bay Point sites.

Just keep swimming?

The surveys themselves went well, in their own special ways... I completed Lighthouse Transect A with my buddy Jack and had time to spare. However, technical difficulties forced us to abort the second survey dive before we even began. Firstly, our tape measure was jammed. Secondly, my air tank's valve was closed. Oops... It's an experience I'd rather not have to go through again- that squeeze as my lungs continued to compress as I gasped for air that's wasn't there. Jack's focus was fixed on the jammed tape measure- he was out of reach and I couldn't get his attention. So from the 6.7 meters I resurfaced, breathing out the very last reserve of air in a steady stream of bubbles. Jack resurfaced shortly afterwards, broken tape measure in hand. Our survey dive completed in a record time of 5 minutes.

Bicycle by the Baie

Making the most of our particular situation, Jack and I swam around Willy's Bay Point. We found our fellow survey divers conducting their diversity belt as we swam idly above them. Not limiting our time to the water, we scrambled up the granite rocks and timed jumps to the ocean's swell. It was a brilliant survey dive- not as much coral as expected, but still worth every breath.

My extended weekend began on Wednesday when I caught a ferry to Praslin, the second largest island in Seychelles and visible from Mahe's northeastern shore. I stayed in Cote D'Or, a beautiful (thoroughly touristy) beach community. Praslin is like Mahe's little sister- the same energy and vibe but smaller, and as such, less going on. It's a good place to getaway, though I really don't see a reason to go back except to tick off a few dive sites.

From Praslin, I caught a ferry to La Digue, an island that's held in high regards and talked up quite a bit in Seychelles. If Praslin is Mahe's little sister, La Digue is the baby of the family. The entire island could be walked in a day, though most locals and tourists have opted for bicycles. There's a nature reserve and ample beaches with exquisite granite rocks jutting from the sand. But like Praslin, I don't know if I'd go back unless it were to dive specific spots off La Digue's coast.

Rejuvenated and refreshed from the week's adventures, I am ready to plunge into the next five weeks with a renewed sense of vitality. Every moment is a treasure to have and to hold, to share and let go- just like the air we breathe.

Saved you a seat...

Seychelles Dive Log #2

By the Numbers: Bi-Weekly Dive Log
Dive #13	18/4/2011
Dive Time: 10:47	Bottom Time: 39 minutes
Max Depth: 14.6 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Liz, Shelby, Julia. ID: *Cycloseris → Fungia (serrated septa!), Physogyra, Galaxea, Mycedium, Lobophyllia, Pocillopora, Goniopora, *Montipora → Porites, Hydnophora, Herpolitha, Lobophyllia, Acropora, *Echinophyllia (Just didn't know the name!), Hydnophora, Porites, Turbinaria, Pachyseris, Favites
Seychelles Bottom Time: 571 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #14	19/4/2011
Dive Time: 10:12	Bottom Time: 53 minutes
Max Depth: 11.4 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 140 bar
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Meg, Jack. ID: 29 corals
Seychelles Bottom Time: 624 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #15	19/4/2011
Dive Time: 13:57	Bottom Time: 49 minutes
Max Depth: 8.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Colin, John. ID: Trouble distinguishing between Goniastrea and Gardenoseris
Seychelles Bottom Time: 673 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #16	20/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:12	Bottom Time: 41 minutes
Max Depth: 16.9 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 3-8 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi → 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Turtle Dive w/Dan, no turtles. Incredibly turbid, deep water at drop off site.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 714 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #17	21/4/2011
Dive Time: 08:39	Bottom Time: 47 minutes
Max Depth: 6.8 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 2100 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Dive for Earth Day with Amelia, John, Adam. Picked garbage off the reef, saw 3 thorny back rays, moray eel, stone fish, lion fish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 761 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #18	22/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:09	Bottom Time: 52 minutes
Max Depth: 5.2 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: 2mm Neoprene Jacket, 2 lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Emily, Julia, Susane. We've begun logging the life form of each coral colony along with scientific family and genus names.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 813 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #19	22/4/2011
Dive Time: 15:42	Bottom Time: 50 minutes
Max Depth: 10 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2500 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: 2mm Neoprene Jacket, 2 lbs weight belt
Notes: Coral Spot Dive w/Vanessa, Will, Amelia. Saw a nudibranch and moray eel!
Seychelles Bottom Time: 863 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #20	25/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:07	Bottom Time: 45 minutes
Max Depth: 14.2 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 8-10 meters
Air Consumption: 2800 psi → 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Turtle Dive w/Meg. No turtles, though did spot a crown of thorns starfish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 908 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #21	26/4/2011
Dive Time: 13:51	Bottom Time: 47 minutes
Max Depth: 6.5 meters	Water Temperature: 28
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2600 psi → 1900 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral/Invert Spot Dive w/Liz, Julia, Susanne. ID: SB Goniopora Porites, MS Platygyra Faviidae, FO Mycedium Pectiniidae, TB Acropora Acroporidae, EC Fungia Fungiidae (recruit), EC Lobophyllia Mussidae, Giant Clam, Flowerfish, Bohadschia, Giant Conch, Cowrie, Barracuda
Seychelles Bottom Time: 955 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #22	27/4/2011
Dive Time: 12:22	Bottom Time: 51 minutes
Max Depth: 11.7 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 220 bar → 160 bar
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: Coral/Invert Spot Dive w/Liz, Meg, Julia. ID: Montastrea EC, Platygyra MV, Acropora EC, Diploastrea EC, Favia MV. Nudibranchs, Short Spine Sea Urchins, Giant Clams, Cushion Sea Star, Feather Star, Christmastree Worm, Stichopus, Bohadschia, Actinopyga, Flowerfish.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1006 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #23	28/4/2011
Dive Time: 11:40	Bottom Time: 55 minutes
Max Depth: 8.6 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 10-12 meters
Air Consumption: 2700 psi ? 1800 psi
Gear: No weights, Long-sleeve rashguard
Notes: 50 meter Coral Diversity Belt, Practice Methodology w/Grace, Meg. Depth Profile: 2 - 16 meters w/Magic Line @ 6 meters, Starting Depth @ 8.3 meters, Ending Depth @ 5.6 meters. Survey Start: 11:52. Survey End: 12:35. 50% survey site completion. Corals Present Right of LIT: Acropora, Montipora, Astreopora, Porites, Goniopora, Pocillopora, Stylophora, Lobophyllia, Acanthastrea, Turbinaria, Fungia, Stylocoeniella, Hydnophora, Psammocora, Coscinarea, Pavona, Leptoseris, Montastrea, Favia, Favites, Leptastrea, Cyphastrea, Goniastrea, Diploastrea, *Oulophyllia (hidden in a crevice). Commercial Inverts & Cucumbers: 1 Bohadschia.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1061 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #24	29/4/2011
Dive Time: 14:26	Bottom Time: 59 minutes
Max Depth: 11.8 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 12-15 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 140 bar
Gear: No weights, No rashguard
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Grace, Meg. Depth Profile: 3.1 - 12 meters w/Magic Line @ 6 meters. Survey Start: 14:30. Survey End: 15:16. 80% survey site completion. Surge Rating: 1. Corals Present Right of LIT: Acropora, Montipora, Astreopora, Porites, Goniopora, Pocillopora, Stylophora, Acanthastrea, Turbinaria, Hydnophora, Psammocora, Coscinarea, Pavona, Leptoseris, Montastrea, Favia, Favites, Leptastrea, Cyphastrea, Goniastrea, Diploastrea. Commercial Inverts & Cucumbers: 2 Actinopyga.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1120 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters
Dive #25	29/4/2011
Dive Time: 16:20	Bottom Time: 54 minutes
Max Depth: 9.8 meters	Water Temperature: 29
Visibility: 12-15 meters
Air Consumption: 200 bar → 130 bar
Gear: No weights, no rashguard
Notes: Coral Diversity Belt w/Lee, Meg. Depth Profile: 2.3 - 10 meters w/Magic Line @ 3.1 meters. Survey Start: 16:24. Survey End: 17:03. 60% survey site completion. Surge Rating: 2. Difficulty coping with surge, attacked by branching Acropora. Considering wearing a wetsuit for some protection.
Seychelles Bottom Time: 1174 minutes
Seychelles Max Depth: 23.4 meters