ActionQuest eBrochure by Global Expeditions Group

WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO. ActionQuest is an incredible adventure that is yours for the taking. For over 40 years, AQ has consistently delivered high quality sailing, scuba, marine biology & community service summer adventure camps for teenagers. Through hands-on experiential learning and adventure travel throughout the world, we have successfully ignited the inherent leadership skills within thousands of young adults.

You will leave your ActionQuest voyage with new skills, talents and independence. The AQ path offers action-packed adventures that focus on sailing, scuba diving, cultural immersion, marine biology and global exploration – all in a ‘live-aboard’ environment unlike any other.

Whether you choose a three-week voyage to the British Virgin Islands, the Caribbean’s Leeward Islands, the Mediterranean, Galapagos, Australia, Thailand, Sweden or even French Polynesia - you are in for the adventure of a lifetime. Don’t take our word for it, speak to some of our alumni. Over 15,000 teenagers have taken the ActionQuest plunge. Go online, interact with past shipmates and discover what they took away from their ActionQuest journey. Time and time again, alumni recount their ActionQuest voyage as their single most memorable life experience.

You will live on sailing yachts with a crew of 8 to 14 teens your age. Within this close-knit team, you develop strong friendships by conquering daily challenges. Everyone plays a part in running the vessel, with roles and responsibilities shifting daily. One day you may be skipper, the next day chef, and perhaps, navigator the next. This active learning aids in fostering accomplishment and self-reliance in a fun, interactive environment! The experience is complemented by a committed, professional staff whose main goal is to support your discovery. The individual attention and camaraderie between staff and shipmates makes each voyage unique, as the entire team unites to accomplish the AQ mission of high action, real-world learning.

Be prepared to be amazed by the places you will see, the people you will meet and the selfdiscovery you will find on an ActionQuest adventure. As Goethe said, “Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!” Make your step aboard ActionQuest the journey of your lifetime.

ABOUT ACTIONQUEST

OUR MISSION To guide diverse groups of young adults on exceptional global expeditions; challenging them with high action, life-changing adventures that promote personal growth, teamwork and leadership. OUR STORY SO FAR… As a young man, Jim Stoll developed a passion for sailing. He turned the usually quiet summer season at his family’s boat yard into a thriving business by offering a sailing school for teenagers. In 1970, Jim expanded the concept, taking his school to the water full-time. Jim sailed the Atlantic waters aboard 156’ Te Vega and 175’ Te Quest, enrolling 86 teenagers every year in a high school program of study and travel. Twelve years later, with children of his own, Jim moved back ashore to develop his motivational programs for young adults. In the mid eighties he once again headed to the water and ActionQuest was born.

Looking to give something back to the communities that had supported ActionQuest and Sea|mester for so long, in 2002, Mike and Jim created Lifeworks, a worldwide community service-learning program for teenagers. Lifeworks teams up with local, national and international organizations so students can embark on meaningful service projects around the world. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to consider what contributions they want to make to the world during their lifetime. The steady growth of Sea|mester has allowed one of our biggest goals to be realized. Summer 2006 saw the completion of a new 112-foot school ship, S/Y Argo. Since her launch she has circumnavigated the globe twice, offering Sea|mester students the chance to cross oceans while furthering their educational and personal goals. Sea|mester plans to build additional vessels in the future, based on the model of Argo.

In 1995, Jim was joined by Mike Meighan. A recent oceanography and marine biology graduate, Mike dreamed of creating a truly interactive educational experience. Using the principles of ActionQuest, Mike developed Sea|mester – a live-aboard college accredited semester at sea program. Sea|mester brings academics from the textbook into real-life application. Voyaging throughout stimulating environments, the expedition becomes the vehicle for gaining knowledge, understanding, confidence and skills. Sea|mester acquired the 88-foot school ship, S/Y Ocean Star, in 1998. After an extensive re-fit, she headed for the Caribbean and continues to ply the waters of the Lesser Antilles today.

Mike sails aboard with the British Virgin Island ActionQuest summer programs, preferring to maintain his active role as director. Today, ActionQuest, Sea|mester and Lifeworks programs span the world and have changed the lives of thousands of teenagers.

During Sea|mester’s infancy, Jim helped his teenage son, Jason, achieve a life goal - sailing around the world. Between 1997 and 1999, Jim joined his son for parts of the voyage. Their travels led to the creation of new AQ programs in the Galapagos, Tahiti, Fiji and Australia.

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This has been the experience of a lifetime; one I will not soon forget. You have truly made my summer and significantly impacted all of our lives. We learned things here that we could never have learned back home. I’ll remember the people I met and how wonderful it was to be in a place where you were judged not by what you had but by who you were.

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CHRIS NORMAN SCOTTSDALE, AZ www.actionquest.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT ACTIONQUEST WHO WE ARE WHAT WE DO

OUR MISSION

OUR STORY SO FAR

THE AQ DIFFERENCE WHY ACTIONQUEST STANDS OUT

SAFETY

STAFF

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

ACTIVITIES

DESTINATIONS

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

GLOBAL ADVENTURES

FOR PARENTS

YOUR AQ ADVENTURE

THE NEXT STEPS

PERSPECTIVES

HOW TO ENROLL

FAQs

TRAVEL INFORMATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

(STARTS HERE!)

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

YOUR AQ ADVENTURE

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

From introductory to advanced sailing and scuba, tropical marine biology, water sports, land excursions, cultural immersion and community service – there is something for every experience level and adventurer. From trekking through rainforest jungles to night sailing under a blanket of stars, expect to see sights beyond imagination and gain skills beyond expectations on every AQ journey!

SAILING

SCUBA

Just you, your shipmates and the power of the wind. You knew nothing about harnessing that power 10 days ago. Now, with the breeze in your hair and the helm in your hands, you realize how far you and your teammates have come. No longer passengers, you are crew – shipmates, staff and adventurers united for this awesome voyage.

Submerged in a completely different world - a world where ‘exotic’ doesn’t begin to describe what’s in front of your eyes, that’s AQ scuba. Through crystal blue waters with incredible visibility, you come face-to-face with spectacular marine life like hawksbill turtles, queen angelfish and schools of mirror-like silver sides. Incredible.

At ActionQuest, we know sailing and so do our shipmates. Whether a novice or seasoned sailor, you will advance your skills on the world’s most beautiful waters under the guidance of ActionQuest’s knowledgeable staff. Our licensed, certified instructors teach shipmates internationally recognized sailing courses. Many of them were ActionQuest shipmates when they were teenagers, so they can relate to the power of extreme adventure and discovery while under sail.

ActionQuest dives in the world’s hottest diving spots. Sites like the wreck of the RMS Rhone, voted the best wreck dive in all of the Caribbean and Cod Hole on the Great Barrier Reef. Night dives, naturalist dives, wreck dives – they are all within your reach. AQ has been teaching scuba longer than any other teen program and we have one of the highest ratios of continuing education of any dive school. Just like our sailing certs, there is a clear progression in the scuba certifications from the Introductory Open Water all the way through to Professional Divemaster. With over 12 scuba specialties, you can continue to build your skills with each new program.

AQ offers International Yacht Training (IYT) certifications so you can build on your sailing skills through increasingly challenging courses. Whether your goal is to gain basic, advanced or even professional sailing certifications, we have the program for you.

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

COMMUNITY SERVICE

So you couldn’t picture yourself actually skiing. Think again! As you carve through the water behind the ski boat, you feel the speed, the wind, the exhilaration and the accomplishment of doing something you never thought you could. You lean back and grin. What an extreme ride!

It has been a 10-minute chase through the water and finally you have caught him. You and your shipmates measure, tag and take a DNA sample from the baby hawksbill turtle. He needs a name too. Within minutes, you are releasing “Rapido” back into his home waters to grow.

At ActionQuest you will find yourself learning and loving a variety of water sports. Based on the program you choose, you could be surfing – wind & wave style, wakeboarding, whitewater rafting, laser sailing and snorkeling … an AQ adventure is an action-packed thrill ride.

Many ActionQuest voyages incorporate community service so shipmates can give back to the community they are visiting. Projects vary by program, yet whether participating in a turtle tagging and release project in the BVI, removing non-native species from the Galapagos highlands or brightening a school with fresh paint in an Aboriginal Australian community, the rewards are huge.

LAND & CULTURAL EXPLORATIONS

TROPICAL MARINE BIOLOGY

You’ve conquered the 500 rock-carved steps of ‘The Ladder’ at Saba. Now the path leads through lush vines over carpets of moss. Each new step delivers a more mesmerizing view than the one before. You and your team are steps away from the peak of The Quill – an almost perfectly symmetrical extinct volcano on the island of Nevis. But that is just the beginning. Holding onto vines, you descend into the crater itself. Whoa, now that’s a view!

What the heck is that? You just asked the most common diving question - and with good reason. Learning about tropical marine biology opens your eyes to the infinite variety of life that resides on the reefs below and being so close to the subject matter instills a profound sense of environmental stewardship. While reef and environmental awareness are always part of ActionQuest voyages, our Vega, Carina, Neptune, Barracuda and Dolphin voyages go further. By combining scuba diving with field studies and marine sciences, the AQ tropical marine biology voyages concentrate on building environmental science knowledge. Learn by doing, seeing and experiencing things that most people only read about in books.

ActionQuest anchors at the most incredible places on earth – the perfect setting for hiking and exploring. The sights you see on an AQ voyage vary according to the destinations you visit, but all are extraordinary. Marvel in the beauty of the BVI Baths, where pools of crystal water lap at the cavernous boulder rocks. Hike through Australian nature parks where you can cuddle a real koala and hand feed a kangaroo. Whether brushing up your Spanish during a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station in the Galapagos, exploring archeological excavations of the Huahine Island in Tahiti or seeing the renowned Colosseum in Rome, you will revel in every expedition.

www.actionquest.com

CHECK OUT ALL THE ACTIVITIES...

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YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

WATER SPORTS

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

THE BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

The British Virgin Islands have long been regarded a sailor’s paradise and diver’s dream. Situated at the very top of the Caribbean island chain, this cluster of 36 small islands consist of steep lush hills and white sandy beaches all surrounded by the electric blue waters of the Sir Frances Drake Channel. This idyllic setting is perfect for a wide range of water sports, so it is no wonder that this is where we choose to offer our biggest and broadest adventure training programs.

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LEEWARD & FRENCH CARIBBEAN ISLANDS

The Leeward Islands stretch from the Virgin Islands - south to Antigua and include Saba, Statia, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Barts and St. Martin. The cultural and geological diversity seen over such a small geographic area is enormous; customs and currencies change as often as the language spoken; some islands are flat and dry, others mountainous and lush. AQ Leeward adventures offer longer distance sailing for both novice and advanced levels with many opportunities for shore adventure and island exploration.

THE MEDITERRANEAN

The Mediterranean is one of the most fascinating yachting playgrounds in the world. Our fast-paced sailing and cultural expedition starts in the South of France, following the wake of Ulysses to Corsica, Sardinia, over to Italy and then north to Monte Carlo and the French Riviera. With an emphasis on sailing and history, shipmates visit famous sites like the Vatican City and the Colosseum, hike to Napoleon’s place of exile on the island of Elba and stroll through the streets of Monaco and promenades of Cannes and San Tropez.

ECUADOR & THE GALAPAGOS ISLANDS

The Galapagos archipelago, made up of over 100 islands, was formed about four million years ago. Separated from South America by the Pacific, this once-lonely island group is one of the most biologically important places on earth. Penguins, iguanas, sea lions and giant tortoises are just a few of the incredible animals seen during our adventure. The program is split between the mainland of Ecuador and the islands of the Galapagos, and includes rainforest eco-tours, whitewater expeditions and community service projects.

AUSTRALIA & THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

Australia is the sixth largest country in the world and home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral ecosystem. Extending some 2,000 kilometers from tip to toe, it is the only living organism visible from outer space and provides the perfect backdrop for many of our activities. Traveling from Sydney in the south to Cape Tribulation in the north, our AQ Australian expedition includes sailing, scuba, surfing, trekking and community service.

TAHITI & FRENCH POLYNESIA

Tahiti and French Polynesia are just part of the 118 islands in the Society group that was formed about three million years ago by huge undersea volcanic eruptions. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific trade winds, these islands offer world-class sailing, scuba diving and snorkeling, as well as adventurous island trekking. Bora Bora, Papeete, Raiatea and Huahini are just a few of the picture-perfect islands we explore during this exotic AQ adventure.

YOUR ACTIONQUEST ADVENTURE

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

There are many reasons why ActionQuest outperforms every other summer experience. The positive outcomes and insights gained through the environment we create keep both students and staff coming back year after year. We provide a place where our shipmates can develop into the person they want to be, and AQ inspires confidence and dependability. This is a result of facing challenges, acquiring new skills, working as a team and exploring the world in new and different ways. This environment attracts both students and staff alike. The numbers speak for themselves. Seven out of ten shipmates join us because of a personal recommendation or are returning for a second summer. Seventy five percent of our professional staff return each year and over half were once students themselves.

WHY DOES ACTIONQUEST STAND OUT?

ALUMNI SURVEY RESULTS

OUR RESULTS

Increased global awareness | 91%

In addition to staying safe and having fun, we believe that a summer experience can have a lasting impact, one that aids in the development of skills and insights that stay with you throughout high school, college and, most importantlyâ&#x20AC;Ś. life.

50%

100%

We understand that parents want their children to grow to be independent and capable of making positive choices that enable them to maximize their strengths, overcome their weaknesses and reach their fullest potential. Perhaps the hope for their happiness and success is at its strongest as they reach their teen years. This is a pivotal time in their lives because these experiences and influences build the bridge from the children they once were to the adults they will become. We provide our students with the tools they need to build a strong foundation for this transition. We do this by creating an environment that promotes self-discovery as well as social, emotional and intellectual growth. The programs we offer vary in destination and focus yet all are multi-faceted, built around the same core principles and philosophy. The result? We get results far beyond what one might expect from a typical summer program and this was highlighted to us in a recent survey of over 5000 alumni who joined us as far back as 1986.

EXPERIENCE

For over 40 years, ActionQuest has offered water-based adventure training programs for teens around the world. As the most experienced in this type of teen adventure travel, we know teens and the types of adventure they seek. Our combined staff experience and long history of both alumni and parent satisfaction make us the natural choice for teens looking beyond traditional summer programs.

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY & DESIGN

The AQ experience is centered on small, co-ed, age appropriate groups of 8 to 20 teenagers. This encourages close friendships to form while fostering a unique, hands-on experience. Programs are non-competitive, adventure-based and most are run full-time aboard sailing vessels. This is a core component of any AQ experience. Beyond the fun, living and learning aboard a yacht offers a perfect environment to develop leadership and communication skills, as there is nothing contrived about teamwork when working together as part of a tight-knit crew. Our programs have always been grounded in experiential education. Students have a greater feeling of accomplishment from having completed things themselves. In addition, their self-reliance and confidence soar from achieving new skills and certifications. Ninety percent of all activities occur within small teams, yet many programs sail as part of a larger group that provides a social and supportive backdrop. Students have the opportunity to interact with as many as 120 teens and 40 staff from just about anywhere. This adds another dimension to the experience and is a lot of fun during activities like a beach party or friendly boat race!

LEADERSHIP

We take great pride in the knowledge that our full-time staff are some of the most highly qualified in the professional yachting industry. Director Mike Meighan sails with our larger fleet in the British Virgin Islands every summer, preferring to keep an active role within the program that he helped create. In addition, many of AQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head operational directors during the summer are those who operate our year-round college program, Sea|mester, during the rest of the year. The collective experience that these individuals bring is not only essential to the mission of ActionQuest but also unsurpassed in our industry.

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

Unique to AQ is that in addition to our wide variety of adventure programs, we also offer two other distinct programs for those who wish to experience and learn more with us. No other organization offers this level of diverse instruction and experience.

GAP YEAR SEMESTER AT SEA VOYAGES FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS & HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES Living full-time aboard our traditional schooners and sailing through extraordinary destinations that span the globe, Sea|mester teaches accredited academics unconfined by the four walls of a traditional classroom. Visit www.seamester.com for more information.

COMMUNITY SERVICE SUMMER ADVENTURES FOR TEENS Lifeworks combines international community service projects with cultural immersion, travel and outdoor adventure. Lifeworks is about people and making a difference. Visit www.lifeworks-international.com for more information.

THE LIFEWORKS FORUM A unique and fundamental element of all AQ programs is the Lifeworks Forum. Held at intervals throughout the voyage, the forum is designed to complement the learning that takes place through the everyday interaction aboard. Students have the opportunity to participate in – and lead – discussions on topics like personal responsibility, values, integrity, communication and goals. Of all of the skills that our students take from their experience, it is the life skills that can carry them the farthest. At ActionQuest, we feel that while building one’s life, it is important to be sure it is based on a foundation of compassion and personal integrity. For many, it is the Lifeworks Forum that helps teens examine and strengthen this foundation.

CERTIFICATIONS OFFERED

Thanks to our excellent partnerships, AQ is able to offer our students the best certifications in the industry. This means that they are well prepared to handle the fun as well as the responsibility that goes with activities such as sailing and scuba diving. Since our certifications are recognized internationally, once shipmates complete a program, they can easily build on their skills anywhere in the world.

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

AQ’s commitment to professional excellence requires affiliations with organizations that are as committed to risk management and quality instruction as ourselves. We are proud to partner with the industry leaders below.

AQ is a PADI Association facility. Instruction is offered in many voyages. We offer certifications from Open Water through Divemaster, including numerous specialties.

Over the last 30 years, we have taught thousands to ski and wakeboard in affiliation with the American Water Ski Association.

AQ has been awarded the PADI Gold Palm 5-Star rating, the highest possible PADI ranking, for our strong emphasis on education, safety and environmental awareness.

The American Red Cross certifications in CPR and First Aid are offered as part of many programs in the British Virgin Islands.

AQ is an International Yacht Training Partner School. We teach through the IYT International Yachting Passport global scheme, a modular training program designed to develop skills from beginner through to the professional level.

ActionQuest is a Divers Alert Network sponsor and requires all diving participants to be DAN members. DAN is part of the Duke University Medical Center.

AQ is an accredited facility of the American Sailing Association and US Sailing.

As a Mistral windsurfing school, we offer the curriculum leading to certification in windsurfing. ActionQuest is an associate of the United States Windsurfing Association.

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

CONTINUING EDUCATION

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

RISK MANAGEMENT: ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS Risk management comes first in everything we do at ActionQuest. Our activities are adventurous and to say that there are no risks would be misleading. However, awareness of the potential risks is the key to effective control and management. Risk management and safety training is a core part of operating our programs and is integrated in a number of specific ways.

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I can honestly say that not one detail was left for question. We felt clear on everything. You are a well oiled machine and you exceeded our expectations. We are so pleased. Our daughter felt safe, had a blast, and has come home with the passion of diving. She has never done any camp before and was overjoyed, confident, and wants to pursue diving to a higher level. She will be back! Our sincere thanks!

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VANESSA & CARL LINDGREN UPPERVILLE, VA

PROGRAM DESIGN & STRUCTURE

STAFF EXPERIENCE & TRAINING

Risk management is the foremost consideration of every aspect of program design. Since AQ is all about hands-on learning, our staff place high emphasis on safety and risk management, passing these critical elements on to their team. Throughout the voyage, students learn safety procedures via a number of different media. This learning is reinforced through practical application, as shipmates demonstrate safe practices during every day activities. Through repetition, simple precautions become second nature.

The quality and experience of our staff plays an integral role in our success. Unlike most summer programs, our core staff work with us year-round as educators and instructors. These full-time professionals ensure the highest level of safety and instruction. Learn more about our incredible team on page 14.

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THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

FAIL SAFE WITH PFD’S

SMALL GROUPS WITHIN A FLOTILLA

STAFF INTERACTION

SUN SAFETY

ActionQuest staff live full-time with their shipmates and much of our success comes from the strong working friendships that form as a result. Staff and shipmates are truly on an expedition together. At times and locations deemed appropriate by the AQ director, students have free time to explore ashore in small groups, yet for the most part our staff are with their team to lead and guide.

AQ recognizes that sun safety is critical as we spend a lot of time outside during our programs. There are biminis (awnings) covering the cockpits of all our vessels, yet overexposure is still a concern and something we take seriously. Our staff set the example through good practices, while educating and monitoring their shipmates. AQ recommends that everyone take the following precautions: • Regular application of a dermatologist-approved sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher. • Wear good quality sunglasses that block out 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays. • Wear a UV filtering surfer-style rash guard.

www.actionquest.com

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

Whether aboard our larger vessels or our smaller boats, wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is a must when sailing. The decision to wear PFDs is simple common sense. Risk management is as critical in times of blue skies and calm seas as it is in rough weather. The US Sailing Association, the national governing body for sailing, requires all crew to wear US Coast Guard approved PFDs whenever training vessels for youth are in motion. With good reason, AQ instituted this procedure years before the regulation went into effect.

For those new to sailing, we typically recommend our BVI programs, because yachts sail as part of a group or flotilla. Sailing and socializing within a larger group is a lot of fun and traveling this way also offers significant risk management advantages. We may have as many as 40 staff in one place at the same time, allowing our students to interact and learn from a large number of highly trained teachers and role models. Back-up support is always available with Emergency Medical Technicians close at hand. Additionally, it allows ActionQuest Director, Mike Meighan, to be present full-time to interact with shipmates and staff and to ensure our high standards.

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

MEET THE ACTIONQUEST STAFF With an average age of 27, our staff members are young, dynamic teachers who live aboard with our students 24/7. Most of our core operational staff work full-time as educators with Sea|mester, our college-level marine science program. Others are traditional teachers during the year, joining us each summer to raise our staff to over 50. Each team member brings unique talents and experience and most have been with us for several years. In fact, 75 percent of our staff return each summer and 60 percent were once shipmates themselves, so they understand the dynamics of an AQ adventure from both teen and adult perspectives. The background and qualifications of our professional staff are as diverse as the activities on an AQ adventure. Still, the AQ staff is united by their love of teaching, their steadfast integrity and their boundless dedication to their shipmates. Every team member possesses the essential abilities for their

particular area of expertise, yet most are multi-talented, combining the many skills necessary to operate a mobile live-aboard training program. Team members include U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains, IYT/RYA Yachtmasters, PADI scuba instructors, marine scientists, Emergency Medical Technicians, Wilderness First Responders and other water sport instructors. All staff members are trained first aid responders. New staff applicants are carefully screened to ensure they possess the required qualifications, experience and the ability to be a positive role model for our students. During pre-summer, staff complete an intensive training program in the British Virgin Islands. Safety procedures, risk management, equipment maintenance and operation, itinerary planning as well as instruction in team building and communication facilitation are just a few of the modules covered.

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Thank you! Katy has had two wonderful trips with ActionQuest. Both times she has returned absolutely glowing from the inside. She speaks so highly of her staff. They sound like wonderful role models, teachers and friends. The opportunity to live in a group of peers in such close quarters teaches kids the values of flexibility, trust, laughter and personal space in such a real way.

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MARGO STEPHENS NORWICH, VT THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

Michael Meighan

Jim Stoll

Jim spent much of his youth aboard boats. As a young man, he became an avid ocean racer crewing many times aboard legendary racing yachts like Jack Eckerd’s Panacea, S.A. Long’s Ondine and Jim Kilroy’s Kialoa. In 1970, Jim and his wife, Elske, became owners and captains of the 156-ft. schoolship Te Vega, sailing with her sister-ship, the 175-ft. Te Quest. This is where Jim first combined his passion for the ocean and years of experience to teach young adults sailing and hands-on academics. After 12 years and 50,000 miles of cruising throughout European, Mediterranean, South American and Caribbean waters, the Stolls moved ashore with their children, Carina and Jason.

In 1995, Mike assumed the role of ActionQuest marine biologist, oceanographer and scuba instructor.

Jim revisited his passion for working with teenagers when he established ActionQuest. The untraditional programs challenged young adults with high-action adventure and personal growth. The concept was so successful that similar programs like Sea|mester and Lifeworks were developed to further serve teenagers and young adults with both an academic and community service focus.

Over the years, his love for experiential learning and the AQ programs led him to become involved in all aspects of operations. His passion for teaching traditional academics in an experiential way led to the development of Sea|mester in 1998. Today, Mike directs all operations and activities in addition to developing new voyages, programs and course curriculums. He sails with the BVI ActionQuest and Sea|mester programs full-time each summer. The Meighan family has a deep-rooted affection for the water. Mike’s wife Jo spent several summers as a PADI diving instructor with AQ in the BVI, and works in the Sarasota office part-time. Mike and Jo live in Sarasota with their sons Joshua and Kai who are naturally fond of the water and sail with the family every summer in the BVI.

Travis Yates

Travis joined AQ in 1995, after graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy with a degree in Marine Engineering. Always a sailor, Travis competed at both national and international levels, culminating in a bid for the U.S. Olympic Sailing Team in 1996. Travis holds an MCA/IYT International Master of Ocean Yachts, US Coast Guard Captain’s License and is an Instructor Evaluator for US Sailing. He is also a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer. As Marine Superintendent, Travis is responsible for all AQ equipment. Travis lives in Sarasota with his wife Laura and their children Hannah and Luke.

www.actionquest.com

Sam Williamson

Blair Williamson

Growing up outside of Boston, Sam learned to sail during the summer on the Westport River, and began diving shortly thereafter. Graduating from Wake Forest University, he decided to pursue scuba diving full-time and began teaching diving in Thailand in Koh Tao and the Similan Islands. Sam joined AQ in 2007 and is the director of the British Virgin Islands Diving Program. Sam holds certifications as an MCA international Master of Yachts, and is a PADI Diving Instructor. An avid traveler, he can be found seeking out new adventures abroad, such as Paragliding in the Alps and Jungle trekking in Sumatra.

Blair is from Richmond, VA and grew up sailing in Wilmington, North Carolina. She graduated from the University of Virginia in 2008, having sailed with Sea|mester on S/Y Argo for her 2006 maiden voyage in Thailand. Since 2008, Blair has spent her summers with ActionQuest in the British Virgin Islands as a dive instructor and captain. Blair joined AQ full time in 2011 and works in the office as PR and alumni relations co-ordinator. Blair is a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and holds an IYT Master of Yachts 200 tons certification.

Jake Steward

Easily recognizable by the constant smile on his face, Jake coordinates our introductory dive programs. Brought into diving by his mom, Jake has experience diving all over the world, from the murky, freezing waters of the Great Lakes to the warm, clear waters of the Caribbean. After retuning home from a life changing trip with AQ in 2005, Jake knew he had to become involved with the program. Now as a skipper and PADI instructor, Jake strives to provide his shipmates with the same incredible experience he had as a student.

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

Mike’s love of the sea lured him to scuba diving and sailing at the age of 15. At 18, he voyaged throughout the Mediterranean and taught diving internationally before entering Southampton University in the UK. He graduated with a First Class Joint Honors degree in Oceanography and Marine Biology.

THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

Elliot Evins

Elliot was born in Southern California and has since lived in North Carolina, Virginia and Florida where he currently resides. Elliot graduated from New College of Florida and spent his spring semeseter 2011 with ActionQuest’s sister program, Sea|mester. Elliot joined AQ in 2011 and works as a captain and program director with both the ActionQuest and Lifeworks BVI programs. Elliot loves traveling and meeting new people. He is ecstatic to have a profession that allows him to do both.

Kyle Busacker

Torin Tofferi

As Director of Enrollment for the Global Expeditions Group, Kyle currently runs our west coast office in Portland, Oregon. With prior experience working with summer programs, Kyle joined the AQ operational team in 2006 and spent the next three years working with all of our teen and college programs. After taking a year’s hiatus in the field of enrollment services in higher education, Kyle brought his new knowledge and passion back to our organization. Kyle holds a B.A. in History and Business Administration.

Born and raised in Vermont, Torin’s background is all about snow sports, sailing and community service. He spends winters coaching alpine ski racing while managing his family’s ski shop and summers directing all of our BVI service programs. Torin has a long history in service, starting alternative youth programs with the local recreation and parks departments, as well as recycling programs in the local schools. Torin holds a 50 Ton Master Mariners License with U. S. Coast Guard and is also a PADI Rescue Diver.

Anna Johnson

Granddaughter of school ship pioneers Irving and Exy Johnson, Anna became an AQ shipmate at 16 and even completed her senior year of high school aboard S/Y Ocean Star. A 2004 graduate from the University of Vermont, with degrees in psychology and sociology, Anna also holds an EMT certification and has volunteered on a local ambulance. Anna has worked with AQ since the summer of 2000 and in addition to her medical duties she is also director of the Sail side of our program in the British Virgin Islands.

SARASOTA STAFF

Jo Meighan

Gina Barnaba

Kate Mitchell

Daniel Meyer

Kelly Swartzbaugh

AQ TEAM MEMBER SINCE 1996

AQ TEAM MEMBER SINCE 2003

AQ TEAM MEMBER SINCE 1999

AQ TEAM MEMBER SINCE 2007

AQ TEAM MEMBER SINCE 2013

HOMETOWN Kingston, Jamaica

HOMETOWN Utica, New York

HOMETOWN Chagrin Falls, Ohio

HOMETOWN Seguin, Texas

HOMETOWN St. Louis, Missouri

INTERESTS / HOBBIES ballet, photography, theater, scuba diving, travel

INTERESTS / HOBBIES digital design, photography, jewelry making, reading

INTERESTS / HOBBIES scuba, sailing, reading, biking, yoga

INTERESTS / HOBBIES hiking, backpacking, Flamenco guitar, international travel

INTERESTS / HOBBIES sailing, scuba diving, travelling

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THE ACTIONQUEST DIFFERENCE

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLAND ADVENTURES N W

We offer our biggest and most varied adventure programs in the British Virgin Islands. The cool, steady trade winds, countless coves and bays, mind-blowing beaches and solid anchorages have made the BVI a playground for sailors, water sport enthusiasts, explorers and nature lovers alike. Situated at the top of the Caribbean Island chain, the BVI is the perfect training ground. The electric-blue waters are ideal for sailing, water skiing and wakeboarding. Thanks to the extraordinary array of marine life and incredible visibility, the scuba diving is mesmerizing. To top it off, there are 36 lush, tropical islands to visit so exploration changes from day to day.

ANEGADA

E S

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

GUANA ISLAND

JOST VAN DYKE

GREEN CAY

THE DOGS

TORTOLA

Sailing through protected waters in a flotilla of four to eight 50-foot yachts, you and your team of shipmates from all over the globe will take the helm and play a large part in creating your own experience. Positions of responsibility change on a daily basis. One day you may be skipper and perhaps chef the next. Working together in this way, you will quickly become a team.

VIRGIN GORDA

ROAD TOWN

THE BATHS GINGER ISLAND

WEST END

COOPER ISLAND SALT ISLAND

Our BVI voyages focus on adventure activities and earning certifications in sailing and scuba diving. ActionQuest is more than qualified - we are a certification facility for International Yacht Training (IYT), as well as a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Gold Palm 5-Star training school.

PETER ISLAND NORMAN ISLAND

”

BVI adventures are split into four distinct programs that offer fun, challenging opportunities for both the novice and the more seasoned sailor or diver. No matter which voyage you choose, you will also be windsurfing, water skiing, wakeboarding, grooving to the sound of a local reggae band, doing the limbo at a beach barbecue or chilling in your hammock on deck under the stars. The vessels anchor together for daily activities and evenings in sheltered bays so you will spend time with teens your age from other AQ voyages. There are even opportunities to test your team’s sailing abilities in friendly boat races with other AQ crews. You’ll also explore ashore, whether it’s climbing granite boulders at The Baths, hiking Mt. Sage or visiting the deserted Salt Island.

Thank you for all you did for me and all my shipmates in making this one of the best summers of my life... I loved the diving, sailing, swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing,

”

water skiing and laughing. I had a great time.

JOSE AKLE MEXICO CITY, MEXICO 18

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS

VEGA

QUEST

CARINA

BARRACUDA

LOCATION

British Virgin Islands

PROGRAM FOCUS

Intro to sailing, scuba & marine bio. with water sports

Intro to sailing & water sports with community service

Advanced sailing and / or Jr. adv. scuba

Dive, dive, dive! Jr. advanced scuba with Marine Bio

DURATION

17 or 21 days

Sailing Scuba Snorkeling Seamanship Water Skiing, Wakeboarding Windsurfing, Small Boat Sailing Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing Community Service Seamanship Water Skiing, Wakeboarding Windsurfing, Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing Scuba Seamanship Water Skiing, Wakeboarding Windsurfing, Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba Sailing Tropical Marine Biology Water Skiing, Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

IYT = International Yacht Training PADI = Professional Association of Diving Instructors

IYT International Crew Cert. PADI Open Water Diver PADI Coral Reef Conservation

IYT International Crew Cert. First Aid / CPR Cert.

PADI Advanced Diver, Fish ID & Boat Diver Specialties IYT Crew, Radio & Bareboat Watchkeeper Cert.

PADI Jr. Advanced Diver Night, Naturalist & Boat Diver Specialties

PREREQUISITE

No previous experience necessary

PADI Jr. Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) and/or a basic sailing certification

PADI Jr. Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

ACTIVITIES

CERTIFICATIONS

VEGA VOYAGES

QUEST VOYAGES

Introduction to Sailing, Scuba & Marine Bio in the BVI

Sailing & Community Service in the BVI

Vega Voyages offer the broadest range of certifications and activities. They are ideal if you are a beginner or have limited sailing experience. You will live aboard a 50-foot sailing yacht in a small group of 10 to 12 shipmates your own age. Up to eight yachts sail together in a flotilla, so you will also connect with other crews of teens from all over the USA and the world.

The Quest Voyage is very similar to the Vega Voyage yet includes up to 20 hours of fun community service projects in place of the PADI scuba diving course. The hours spent participating in projects such as turtle population studies, mangrove reforestation and beach clean-ups, are documented on a transcript that should satisfy school requirements.

No Experience Necessary

Quest sails full-time with the Vega fleet, so in addition to learning to sail and earning community service hours, you will pick up water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, navigation and seamanship skills. Through your community service, you will also be helping to ensure that others can enjoy the adventures of the BVI for years to come.

Under the guidance of licensed sailing experts, your team will take charge of piloting and running your vessel. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a blast while earning internationally recognized certifications in sailing and scuba diving, and also learning water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, navigation and seamanship. Although the program emphasis is on water sports, your crew will also hop ashore, to take on another crew at Ultimate Frisbee, climb boulders at The Baths, hike Mt. Sage or take in a beach sunset.

FOR TRIP ITINERARIES, LOG ON TO:

www.actionquest.com

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS

14 & UNDER VOYAGES

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS

CARINA VOYAGES

BARRACUDA VOYAGE

Advanced Sailing and /or Adv. Scuba in the British Virgin Islands

Jr. Advanced with Marine Biology in the British Virgin Islands

If you are a certified sailor or diver looking to diversify your skills and certifications, this is the program for you. Specialty instructors are devoted to these advanced-level IYT sailing and PADI scuba certifications. You and your shipmates will sail within the same fleet as the Quest and Vega voyages. This program also includes wakeboarding, windsurfing, laser sailing and even beach volleyball as we take on other AQ crews when the flotilla gets together to dance the night away at our beach party. You will perfect advanced sailing skills in the swift winds of Gorda Sound as well as during the sail over to Anegada, a sand island surrounded by secluded reefs that once served as an old pirate hideaway. In Carina, everyone scuba dives. If you are working on advanced scuba skills, the night dive at Mountain Point and wreck dive on the RMS Rhone will awaken your sense of adventure like nothing else!

If you are a certified diver and want to raise your certification level while learning about marine biology, the Barracuda Voyage is for you. The Junior Advanced divemates typically sail with the Vega fleet and receive a combination of both PADI scuba certifications and tropical marine biology instruction. Not only will you gain additional diving certifications, you will explore fascinating marine life. Fish and sea creature identification, slide shows, reef ecosystems, fish dissections and basic oceanography are only part of this interactive learning adventure.

Prerequisite:

• PADI Jr. Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) and/or a basic sailing certification

Prerequisite:

• PADI Jr. Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

After refreshing your scuba skills, the real fun begins. Our PADI Staff Instructors take you and your dive buddy - one step at a time - toward your advanced certifications. Your first night dive may seem spooky, but any apprehension will disappear as you scope out the colorful nocturnal world. Seeing the diversity of marine life on dive sites like the wreck of the RMS Rhone, voted the best wreck dive in all of the Caribbean, will blow your mind!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Where Are They Now? AQ EXPERIENCE: “I gained confidence and interpersonal skills while seeing the world from the deck of a boat. I thank ActionQuest for the courage and willingness to bring character building exercises like goal setting and integrity development to teenagers.”

NAME: Heather Halstead AQ SHIPMATE: 1990, 1991, 1992

WHERE IS SHE NOW?: Heather is the Executive Director and Co-founder of Reach the World Foundation. During three round the world voyages aboard her sailing vessel, Heather has been dedicated to bringing real-world course materials on history, language and world cultures to low-income schools. 20

14 & UNDER PROGRAMS

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS ADVENTURES ANEGADA

N W

E S

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

GUANA ISLAND

JOST VAN DYKE

GREEN CAY

THE DOGS

TORTOLA

For decades, AQ adventurers have flocked to the aquamarine waters and white sand islands of the BVI. Now, it’s your turn to discover why. Situated at the top of the Caribbean Island chain, the 36 lush tropical islands that make up the BVI have long been regarded a sailor’s paradise and diver’s dream. And with good reason. The steady trade winds, countless coves and bays, mind-blowing beaches and solid anchorages make it a perfect training ground. You will learn to sail, scuba dive, water ski, wakeboard and windsurf while discovering fascinating marine life and making new friends along the way. The BVI has so much to offer, it’s no wonder that we choose this as the site of our broadest adventure programs.

VIRGIN GORDA

ROAD TOWN

THE BATHS GINGER ISLAND

WEST END

COOPER ISLAND SALT ISLAND PETER ISLAND NORMAN ISLAND

”

I would like to thank you for making this the most memorable summer yet. ActionQuest has opened up a new

In the BVI, six distinct programs deliver exploration, challenge and a whole lot of fun for both the novice and the more seasoned sailor or diver. Sailing through these protected waters in a flotilla of four to eight 50-foot yachts, you and your shipmates from all over the world will take the helm and create your own adventure. You’ll go ashore for exciting expeditions - whether it’s climbing granite boulders at The Baths, hiking Mt. Sage or visiting the deserted Salt Island. You’ll dive famous sites like The Chimneys, Coral Gardens and the wreck of the RMS Rhone. You might find some parts challenging, but most of all you’ll find an excellent adventure that expands both your personal and geographical horizons!

gateway in my life to sailing and diving. This experience was

”

like no other. Thanks for making it possible.

BRENT BELOTE PETALUMA, CA

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

VEGA

QUEST

CARINA

NEPTUNE

DOLPHIN

RESCUE

LOCATION

British Virgin Islands

PROGRAM FOCUS

Intro to sailing, scuba & marine bio. with water sports

Intro to sailing & water sports with community service

Advanced sailing and / or adv. scuba

Dive, dive, dive! Advanced scuba with specialties

Tropical marine biology with scuba specialties

Rescue and diver safety training

DURATION

17 or 21 days

ACTIVITIES

Sailing, Scuba Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing, Snorkeling Community Service Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing, Scuba Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Ocean Education Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Tropical Marine Biology Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Ocean Education Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

CERTIFICATIONS IYT = International Yacht Training PADI = Professional Association of Diving Instructors DAN = Divers Alert Network

IYT International Crew Cert. PADI Open Water Diver PADI Coral Reef Conservation

IYT International Crew Cert. First Aid / CPR Cert.

PADI Advanced Diver, Fish ID & Boat Diver Specialties IYT Crew, Radio & Bareboat Watchkeeper Cert.

PADI Advanced Diver Night, Wreck, Fish ID, Boat & Equipment Specialties

PADI Underwater Photo, Naturalist, Night & Research Diver Specialties. Tropical Marine Biology

PADI Rescue Diver Search & Recovery, Navigation Specialties First Aid / CPR PADI Oxygen Provider

PREREQUISITE

No previous experience necessary

PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent) and/or a basic sailing certification

PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent) or a PADI referral

PADI Advanced Open Water Cert (or equivalent)

QUEST VOYAGES

VEGA VOYAGES

Introduction to Sailing, Scuba & Marine Bio in the BVI

Sailing & Community Service in the BVI

Vega is ideal if you are a beginner or have limited sailing experience, as it’s our biggest and broadest adventure training program. Living aboard a 50-foot sailing yacht in a small group of 10 to 12 shipmates your own age, you will experience the confidence of succeeding as both an individual and as a team. Up to eight yachts sail together in a flotilla, allowing you to connect with other AQ crews from all over the USA and the world.

If you are looking for a fast-paced sailing adventure that helps make the world a little better, then Quest is for you. The Quest Voyage is very similar to the Vega Voyage yet includes up to 20 hours of fun community service projects in place of the PADI scuba diving course. The hours spent participating in projects such as turtle population studies, mangrove reforestation and beach clean-ups are documented on a transcript that should satisfy school requirements. Through your community service, you will also be helping to ensure that others can enjoy the adventures of the BVI for years to come.

No Experience Necessary

Under the guidance of licensed sailing masters and professional staff, you and your team will take charge of piloting and running your vessel. You will earn internationally recognized certifications in sailing and scuba diving, but that’s not all. Live it up while water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and learning about navigation and seamanship. Although the program emphasis is on water sports, your crew will also explore ashore, hike Mt. Sage and take in a fiery sunset during a beach barbecue. And, on completion of your scuba certification, you’ll also dive the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone and see first-hand why this was voted best wreck dive in all of the Caribbean.

www.actionquest.com

The Quest crew sails full-time with the Vega fleet and many of the activities, skills and certifications are the same. Besides mastering water skiing, you’ll also wakeboard, windsurf and explore the islands. You’ll sail the incredible waters of the Sir Frances Drake Channel, snorkel through the famous Coral Gardens and hang out at ‘Sydney’s Peace & Love’ with other AQ crews from around the world.

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

15 & 16 VOYAGES

NEPTUNE

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

CARINA VOYAGES

Advanced Sailing and /or Adv. Scuba in the British Virgin Islands

Advanced Scuba & Specialties in the British Virgin Islands

This voyage is for you if you are a certified sailor or diver looking to boost your skills and certifications while water skiing, windsurfing and exploring the islands. Specialty instructors are devoted to these advanced-level IYT sailing and PADI scuba certification programs. Carina shipmates sail within the same fleet as the Quest and Vega voyages. You’ll circumnavigate the entire BVI during this voyage, perfecting your sailing, seamanship and navigation skills. In Carina, everyone scuba dives. Along the way, you will dive at reef walls, pinnacles, spurs and outcroppings like Mountain Point, The Chimneys, Spy Glass and Coral Gardens. You will also manage to fit in some wakeboarding, laser sailing and even a little beach volleyball as we take on other crews when the flotilla gets together at our beach party.

If you have a basic scuba certification or PADI referral and want to take it to an advanced level, check out Neptune! During this voyage, you will live aboard a 46-foot catamaran and with step-by-step instruction achieve your PADI Advanced certification as well as five PADI specialties. You’ll be spending action-packed days above and below the surface. The BVI ranks among the best and most diverse diving areas of the Caribbean. A majestic, serene and eye-popping world awaits you when you slip into the seascape below. You’ll understand this better than anyone when you dive Muskmelon Bay, Blue Chromis Reef, Coral Gardens and the wreck of the Chikuzen. This impressive 247-foot ship is now home to hundreds of pelagic fish, and may put you face-to-face with a 300-pound grouper or a school of tarpon!

Prerequisite:

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) and/or a basic sailing certification

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

Sailing the short distances between dive sites, you’ll quickly become familiar with your yacht as you share responsibilities aboard. Along the way, you will also water ski and wakeboard, as well as explore the islands and kick back with our beach parties ashore.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Where Are They Now? AQ EXPERIENCE: “My desire to live life to the fullest and make an impact while I’m here on this earth came from my time at ActionQuest. Appreciating the beauty of a coral reef or an island landscape instilled an environmental awareness within me that made me want to protect this beauty for other generations to experience.”

NAME: Josh Buswell-Charkow AQ SHIPMATE: 1995, 1996

WHERE IS HE NOW?: I am the Campaign Organizer for ForrestEthics, where I manage environmental campaigns that protect endangered forests around the world. The values and lessons I discovered at AQ set me on this trajectory of work and inspire me to continue it. 24

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

DOLPHIN VOYAGES

RESCUE VOYAGES

If you are fascinated by the exciting world of tropical marine biology and hold a basic diving certification or PADI referral, this is your voyage. The Dolphin Tropical Marine Biology program, run by our staff marine biologists and oceanographers, offers an up-close opportunity to explore wonders of the underwater world. The qualifications and certifications you earn can even be applied toward your high school transcript, as many schools award credit for this program. During the voyage, you conduct research on the reefs while furthering your diving certifications and learning to sail. The program runs aboard 46-foot catamarans and 50-foot sloops, which become your home, floating classroom and lab.

The PADI Rescue Diver is the highest non-professional scuba certification and is a prerequisite for those looking to become a Divemaster or Instructor. We recommend that any certified diver advance to at least this level of training, as it thoroughly prepares you to deal with any emergency situation.

Prerequisite:

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

Sailing as part of our advanced diving fleet, Rescue shipmates plunge right in with beach and open water modules. You’ll become a PADI Oxygen Provider, as well as First Aid and CPR certified. Additional certifications in Underwater Navigation and Search and Recovery are taught, and depending on your previous experience, upon completion of this program you may qualify for the PADI Master Scuba Diver rating. Looking to go further? You’ll get a first hand introduction to the Divemaster course by helping guide the Neptune group through rescue scenarios.

Earn four different diving certifications during the program and learn underwater photography to capture the amazing sights you are witnessing on research dives. You will even explore islands, barbecue on the white sand beaches and hike to the top of the tallest mountain. You’ll also soak up some sailing, water skiing and wakeboarding.

While diving is the main focus of the voyage, navigating the BVI offers plenty of opportunity to fine tune your sailing, water skiing and wakeboarding moves as well as explore the island towns.

”

Your marine science program offers students an opportunity to be exposed to the curriculum up close and personal, outside the confines of a conventional classroom. They return with a perspective and a heightened awareness of our oceans and the environmental issues affecting them.

”

www.actionquest.com

• PADI Advanced Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI)

CHECK OUT ALL THE ACTIVITIES...

MRS. JOANN SCHAPER SALINAS, CA

WATCH OUR ONLINE MOVIES 25

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

Tropical Marine Biology in the British Virgin Islands

Safety & Master Scuba Diver Certifications in the British Virgin Islands

15 & 16 VOYAGES

MINERVA

ODYSSEUS

DARWIN

BILLABONG

BORA BORA

LOCATION

Leeward & French Caribbean

Mediterranean

Galapagos & Ecuador

Australia & Great Barrier Reef

Tahiti & French Polynesia

PROGRAM FOCUS

Sailing expedition with water sports and island exploration

Tall ship sailing adventure along the coasts of France, Italy & Monaco

Eco-adventure travel with community service

Travel adventure from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef with scuba & sailing.

Sailing adventure throughout the Polynesian islands of Tahiti, Moorea and the Motus.

DURATION

21 days

22 days

ACTIVITIES

Sailing Scuba* Seamanship Shore Exploration Trekking Offshore Sailing Night Sailing Water Skiing Wakeboarding Dinghy Handling

Sailing Seamanship Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Trekking Historical Tours Dinghy Handling Offshore Sailing Night Sailing

Volcano & Jungle Adventures Boat Expedition Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Natural Sciences Community Service Snorkeling Trekking White Water Rafting

Sailing Scuba* Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Snorkeling Rainforest Tours Surfing Trekking White Water Rafting

Sailing Snorkeling Scuba* Trekking Shore Exploration Cultural Experience Dinghy Handling Offshore Sailing Night Sailing

No previous experience necessary

No previous experience necessary.

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

PREREQUISITE

*Various options for certified or non-certified divers

GLOBAL ADVENTURES

*Various options for certified or non-certified divers

MINERVA VOYAGE

Leeward & French Caribbean Islands Sailing Expedition Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience No Experience Necessary BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS The Minerva expedition is a fastATLANTIC OCEAN paced sailing, hiking and shore ANGUILLA TORTOLA ST. MARTIN exploration adventure that visits ST. BARTHELEMY 10 different islands on a voyage that stretches from the BVI to the island of Antigua and back. ST. EUSTATIUS LE ST. KITTS EW ANTIGUA N The Leewards form the Eastern AR W E NEVIS D IS boundary of the Caribbean S and include impressive tropical MONTSERRAT islands like Saba, Statia, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Barts and St. Martin. Balmy trade winds, lush rainforests and pink sandy beaches make this an ideal destination. The cultural and geological diversity seen over such a small geographic area is enormous; customs and currencies change as often as the language spoken. Some islands are flat and dry, others mountainous and green. Sailing aboard a 50-ft monohull or 46-ft catamaran, the voyage’s main focus is sailing and island exploration, yet there will be time to take advantage of these incredible waters by scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing and wakeboarding. Shore side, the mountainous terrain offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking in the Caribbean. You’ll conquer the 500 rock-carved steps of The Ladder at Saba, and reach the peak of The Quill - an almost perfectly symmetrical extinct volcano on the island of Nevis. First you climb up… and then, while holding onto vines, you climb down into the crater past huge trees, ferns and carpets of moss.

MEDITERRANEAN LEEWARD & FRENCH CARIBBEAN

ECUADOR GALAPAGOS

S ND LA

TAHITI & FRENCH POLYNESIA

AUSTRALIA & GREAT BARRIER REEF

ActionQuest offers adventures that span the globe. Whether setting out to sail in the tropical south pacific or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, AQ encourages you to seek your own challenge.

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

ODYSSEUS

DARWIN VOYAGE

Galapagos & Ecuador Expedition

No Experience Necessary

The Mediterranean is one of PORTO VENERE the most fascinating yachting FRANCE ITALY MONACO playgrounds in the world and NICE CANNES this voyage shows you why. Our fast-paced sailing and cultural ELBA CALVI ROME expedition starts in the south CORSICA of France, following the wake BONIFACIO of Ulysses to Corsica, Sardinia, N PORTO CERVO W E MEDITERRANEAN over to Italy and then north to SEA S SARDINIA Monte Carlo and the French Riviera. The Odysseus Voyage is your opportunity to develop basic and advanced sailing skills, explore a unique part of the world and develop an appreciation for the abundant history and culture these renowned destinations have to offer. Under the guidance of staff, you and your crew will take charge of running the vessel. Focusing on navigation and boat handling, there will be overnight sails to sharpen seamanship skills, as well as daytime sailing along rugged coastlines. Once in port, the focus shifts to what each town and port has to offer. You will see historic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon, the Vatican City and the Roman Forum. You’ll even hike to Napoleon’s place of exile on the island of Elba. On our return, you’ll stop over at Paloma Beach for a game of frisbee and volleyball beside the deep blue-green waters and even have time to explore the streets of Monte Carlo and Promenades of Cannes and San Tropez.

Located 600 miles west of W E S Ecuador, the Galapagos OTAVALO GALAPAGOS ARCHIPELAGO Archipelago is made up of over QUITO YACHANA COTOPAXI SEYMOUR PACIFIC 100 individual islands. They OCEAN BALTRA TENA PLAZAS are among the most isolated SANTA FE SANTA CRUZ islands in the world and the ECUADOR SAN CRISTOBAL wildlife here is in a class of FLOREANA ESPANOLA its own. Swimming with sea lions twisting and turning PERU just inches away from your mask and crouching beside a blue-footed booby as it performs its distinctive courtship dance are samples of the incredible animal encounters waiting for you.

Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience

www.actionquest.com

Adventure travel with eco-tours, whitewater rafting and community service

PORT AYORA

The Darwin Expedition centers on adventure travel with an environmental twist. Darwin is aligned with our community service program, Lifeworks, and offers both high-paced adventure plus 20 to 40 hours of community service. Beginning with a 10-day expedition in Ecuador, you will whitewater raft through spectacular gorges and canyons, experience conservation first-hand at an eco-lodge in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest and hike over the volcanic terrain of the Cotopaxi National Park. In the Galapagos, you’ll take a 4-day boat trip with a naturalist guide who will lead you over volcanic flows. Joining forces with the Galapagos National Parks, you will help preserve this natural wonderland through service projects such as non-native species eradication and biodiversity studies. 27

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

Mediterranean Tall Ship Sailing Voyage

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

BILLABONG

BORA BORA

Australia & the Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Tahiti & French Polynesian Islands Voyage

No Experience Necessary

Adventure travel with sailing, scuba and community service

Traveling from Sydney in the south to Cape Tribulation in the north, our AQ Australian expedition includes sailing, scuba, surfing, exploration, trekking and community service. Australia is the sixth largest country in the world and home to the Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral ecosystem.

INDIAN OCEAN

Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience

CAPE TRIBULATION CAIRNS

French Polynesia forms part of TUPAI N the Society Islands that were W E MAUPITI S BORA BORA created about three million TAHAA years ago by huge undersea HUAHINI volcanic eruptions. The result is RAIATEA a group of 118 islands nestled in PACIFIC the heart of the trade winds that PAPEETE MOOREA OCEAN offer world-class sailing, scuba diving and snorkeling as well TAHITI as adventurous island trekking. Bora Bora takes you from the picture-perfect island of… where else… Bora Bora, with its soaring volcanic peaks, lush green colors and shimmering lagoon to the vanilla island of Tahaa and countless other islands within this South Pacific paradise. Along the way, you’ll enhance your seamanship skills, dive and snorkel the vivid reefs and hike the green mountaintops.

TOWNSVILLE THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

PACIFIC OCEAN

AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY

N W

E S

Billabong is a high-action thrill ride. Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge, surf the waves at Manly Beach, circumnavigate the Whitsunday Islands aboard a sailing yacht and join an intense scuba trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where you are likely to encounter huge schools of jack, grouper and cod. You’ll never forget whitewater rafting through some of the most inaccessible areas of the rainforest or hiking through Cape Tribulation where the rainforest and the reef meet at the water’s edge. In the nature parks, you’ll cuddle a real koala, hand feed a kangaroo and pat a wombat! To see even more of the Aussie wildlife, we’ll catch a crocodile cruise down the Daintree River and take a night safari through the rainforest which is reputed to be home to the largest range of plants and animals on earth. You and your team will also earn community service hours through projects like assisting indigenous landowners with habitat restoration and building community infrastructure. The adventures in Australia are as varied as the ‘down under’ wildlife!

These destinations are so enchanting that even folding your laundry amid this scenery is inspiring! Now, imagine snorkeling through shallow crystal waters as the current rocks you gently through an array of vibrant sea fans, sponges and angelfish. Imagine visiting the serene Tahaa Bay Club and its exquisite botanical gardens. On the Bora Bora Voyage you will do all this and more. Visiting archaeological excavations in Huahini, hiking through rainforests in Raiatea, swimming above towering waterfalls in Papeete, snorkeling with tropical fish and sampling (and preparing!) Tahitian cuisine are all part of this journey. 28

15 & 16 PROGRAMS

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

TAB â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 17 & OLDER

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLAND ADVENTURES ANEGADA

N W

E S

GUANA ISLAND

JOST VAN DYKE

GREEN CAY

THE DOGS

TORTOLA

VIRGIN GORDA

ROAD TOWN

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

The British Virgin Islands’ breathtaking sunsets, lush green hills, surreal blue skies and electric-blue waters offer the perfect backdrop for adventure and discovery. You aren’t the first to seek exploration in the unbelievable beauty of these islands. Apart from thousands of AQ alumni, pirates Henry Morgan, Sir John Hawkins and Blackbeard were frequent visitors too. Perhaps they sought the same adventure and high-excitement you do! The steady trade winds, countless coves and bays, mind-blowing beaches and solid anchorages make it a perfect training ground for scuba diving, sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing and discovering intriguing marine life.

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

THE BATHS GINGER ISLAND

WEST END

Sailing through these protected waters in a flotilla of four to eight 50-foot yachts, you and your team of shipmates from all over the globe will assume the authority of your own adventure. In fact, you will create it almost entirely for yourselves.

COOPER ISLAND SALT ISLAND PETER ISLAND NORMAN ISLAND

The BVI voyages center around building skills in sailing, scuba and other water sports and certifications. As a certification facility for International Yacht Training (IYT), as well as a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Gold Palm 5-Star training school, ActionQuest has the most experience leading sailing and scuba adventure training programs for young adults.

”

The experience of bonding with a group of people in such a short space of time was great fun and our staff

There are seven unique programs that deliver adventure, challenge and discovery for both the novice and the more seasoned sailor or diver. The vessels anchor together for daily activities and evenings in sheltered bays so you will interact with people your age at sunset beach barbecues and island dance parties. Your team will also race against other crews for some friendly sailing competition. You’ll also explore ashore - climbing granite boulders at The Baths, hiking Mt. Sage or visiting the deserted Salt Island. Now’s the time for extreme action and powerful experiences that will prepare you for your next adventures in life.

members really were fantastic. It is encouraging and a great inspiration to see something that has been created just out

”

of one man’s passion for sailing.

SOPHIE GREEN OXFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND 30

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

17 & OVER VOYAGES

VEGA

QUEST

CARINA

NEPTUNE

DOLPHIN

RESCUE

DIVEMASTER

LOCATION

British Virgin Islands

PROGRAM FOCUS

Intro to sailing, scuba & marine bio. with water sports

Intro to sailing & water sports with community service

Advanced sailing and / or adv. scuba

Dive, dive, dive! Advanced scuba with specialties

Tropical marine biology with scuba specialties

Rescue and diver safety training

Divemaster professional internship program

DURATION ACTIVITIES

17 or 21 days

Sailing, Scuba Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing, Snorkeling Community Service Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Hiking Shore Exploration

Sailing, Scuba Seamanship Water Skiing Wakeboarding Windsurfing Small Boat Sailing Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Ocean Education Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Marine Biology Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Ocean Education Water Skiing Wakeboarding Snorkeling Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

Scuba, Sailing Ocean Education Water Skiing Wakeboarding Dinghy Handling Hiking Shore Exploration

IYT International Crew Cert. PADI Open Water Diver PADI Coral Reef Conservation

IYT International Crew Cert. First Aid / CPR

PADI Advanced Diver, Fish ID & Boat Diver Specialties IYT Crew, Radio & Bareboat Watchkeeper Cert.

PADI Advanced Diver Night, Wreck, Fish ID, Boat & Equipment Specialties

PADI Underwater Photo, Naturalist, Night & Research Diver Specialties. Tropical Marine Biology

PADI Rescue Diver Search & Recovery, Navigation Specialties First Aid / CPR PADI Oxygen Provider

PADI Professional Divemaster First Aid / CPR

No previous experience necessary

PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent) and/or a basic sailing certification

PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent) or a PADI referral

PADI Advanced Open Water Cert (or equivalent)

18+ years of age PADI Rescue Diver 40+ logged dives

CERTIFICATIONS IYT = International Yacht Training PADI = Professional Association of Diving Instructors DAN = Divers Alert Network

PREREQUISITE

VEGA VOYAGES

QUEST VOYAGES

Sailing & Community Service in the BVI

This voyage is right for you if you are a beginner or have a limited sailing background, but want to earn certifications and experience a wide range of exciting activities. Living aboard a 50-foot sailing yacht in a small group of 10 to 12 shipmates your own age, you will create the journey. You will also experience the confidence of succeeding as both an individual and a team. Up to eight yachts sail together in a flotilla, allowing you to connect with other AQ crews from all over the USA and the world.

This is your voyage if you are looking for a high-paced adventure that offers you an opportunity to give back to the BVI at the same time. On the Quest Voyage, you will become a seasoned sailor and earn up to twenty hours of community service in place of the PADI scuba diving course. The hours spent participating in projects such as turtle population studies, mangrove reforestation and beach clean-ups will satisfy any school requirement and you’ll also be helping to ensure that others can enjoy the BVI for years to come.

With the collaboration of licensed sailing masters and professional staff, you and your team take charge of piloting and running your vessel while working toward internationally recognized certifications in sailing and scuba diving. Along the way, you will also pick up skills in water skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, navigation and seamanship. Although the program emphasis is on water sports, you’ll also explore ashore. Check out the granite caves, arches and boulders at The Baths and awesome views of surrounding tropical islands from the peak of Mt. Sage. Blow the other Vega crews out of the water in the final exciting race up the Sir Francis Drake Channel and dive the famous wreck of the RMS Rhone to learn why this was voted best wreck dive in all of the Caribbean.

The Quest crew sails full-time with the Vega fleet and many of the activities, skills and certifications are the same. Besides mastering sailing, you’ll also wakeboard, windsurf and explore the islands. You’ll sail the incredible waters of the Sir Frances Drake Channel, snorkel through the famous Coral Gardens and hang out at ‘Sydney’s Peace & Love’ with other AQ crews from around the world.

No Experience Necessary

www.actionquest.com

No Experience Necessary

READ OUR SHIPMATE VOYAGE BLOGS:

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

Introduction to Sailing, Scuba & Marine Bio in the BVI

NEPTUNE

CARINA VOYAGES

Advanced Sailing and /or Adv. Scuba in the British Virgin Islands

Advanced Scuba & Specialties in the British Virgin Islands

Carina is perfect for certified sailors or divers looking to further their skills and certifications while building experience in water skiing, windsurfing and seamanship. If this appeals to you, take steps toward the Carina Voyage. Specialty instructors are devoted to advanced level IYT sailing and PADI scuba certification programs. Carina shipmates sail within the same fleet as the Quest and Vega voyages. You’ll circumnavigate the entire BVI during this voyage, perfecting your sailing and navigation skills. In Carina, everyone scuba dives. Along the way, you will dive at reef walls, pinnacles, spurs and outcroppings like Mountain Point, The Chimneys, Spy Glass and Coral Gardens. You will also manage to fit in some wakeboarding, laser sailing and even a little beach volleyball as we take on other crews when the flotilla gets together at our beach party.

If you want to take your diving to the advanced level and already have a basic diving certification or PADI referral, Neptune is for you. During this exciting voyage, you will live aboard a 46-foot catamaran and with step-by-step instruction, you will achieve your PADI Advanced certification as well as five other scuba specialties. You’ll be spending actionpacked days above and below the surface. The British Virgin Islands rank among the best and most diverse diving areas of the Caribbean. Explore your world like never before while diving at world-famous sites like Muskmelon Bay, Blue Chromis Reef, Coral Gardens and the wrecks of the Chikuzen and RMS Rhone. Throughout the Neptune Voyage you will also water ski, wakeboard and perfect your sailing as you and your team assume responsibilities and take charge of the running of the vessel.

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

Prerequisite:

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) and/or a PADI referral

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Where Are They Now? AQ EXPERIENCE: “ActionQuest isn’t just a summer adventure. It’s a life-changing experience that gives you tools that serve you throughout life and memories that last forever.”

NAME: Alexis Zinberg AQ SHIPMATE: 1994, 1995

WHERE IS SHE NOW?: I am the Vice President of Marketing for Thankyou Network, the Citigroup Rewards Program that manages the organization’s advertising, public relations, event marketing and agency coordination. The self-confidence, leadership and ability to be proactive in both my work and personal life are skills I continue to use today and attribute to my AQ voyage over a decade ago. 32

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

DOLPHIN VOYAGES

RESCUE VOYAGES

Safety & Master Scuba Diver Certifications in the British Virgin Islands

Tropical Marine Biology in the British Virgin Islands Prerequisite:

Prerequisite:

• PADI Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI) or a PADI referral

• PADI Advanced Open Water Cert (or equivalent, such as NAUI or SSI)

This complete diver safety program leads to certification at the highest non-professional scuba certification that PADI offers, and is a prerequisite for those looking to become a Divemaster or Instructor. We recommend any certified diver advance to at least this level of training, as it prepares you thoroughly to deal with any emergency situation. Sailing as part of our advanced diving fleet, Rescue shipmates plunge right in with beach and open water modules. You’ll become a PADI Oxygen Provider, as well as a First Aid and CPR certified. Additional certifications in Underwater Navigation and Search and Recovery are taught, and depending on your previous experience, upon completion of this program you may qualify for the PADI Master Scuba Diver rating. Looking to go further? You’ll get a first hand introduction to the Divemaster course by helping guide the Neptune group through rescue scenarios. While diving is the main focus of the voyage, navigating the BVI will provide ample opportunity to fine tune your sailing, water skiing and wakeboarding moves as well as explore island towns and hike the mountains.

Earn four different diving certifications during the program and learn underwater photography to capture the amazing sights you are witnessing on research dives. Off the water, we’ll visit the islands, explore the towns, cook out on the white sand beaches and hike to the top of the tallest mountain.

CHECK OUT ALL THE ACTIVITIES...

WATCH OUR ONLINE MOVIES www.actionquest.com

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

If you are curious to learn more about tropical marine biology and hold a basic diving certification or PADI referral, this is your voyage. The Dolphin Tropical Marine Biology program, run by our staff marine biologists and oceanographers, provides an interactive opportunity to explore the aquatic realm in a way that others only dream about. The qualifications and certifications you earn can even be applied toward your high school transcript, as many schools do award credit for this program. The real-world learning is more inspiring than anything you will find in a text book. You will conduct reef research while furthering your diving certifications and learning to sail. Other water activities include water skiing and wakeboarding. The program runs aboard 46-foot catamarans and 50-foot sloops, which become your home, floating classroom and lab for the duration of the voyage. The BVI is famous for incredible visibility, colorful coral formations and an awesome array of marine organisms. You’ll see what we mean the first time you break the liquid barrier and descend to the most incredible dive sites!

DIVEMASTER VOYAGES

AS A QUALIFIED DIVEMASTER, YOU WILL BE ABLE TO...

Professional PADI Training in the British Virgin Islands

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

Prerequisite:

• Work at local dive centers on live-aboard dive boats, yachts and exotic resort locations

• Age 18 prior to the course start date • PADI Advanced & Rescue certifications (or equivalent) • Minimum of 40 logged dives

• Assist PADI Instructors with students • Lead PADI Scuba Divers on guided dive tours • Teach and certify PADI Skin Divers

If you want to take your diving skills and knowledge to the first professional level and are already a certified PADI Advanced and Rescue Diver, Divemaster fits the bill. PADI Divemaster training is designed to develop leadership abilities by training shipmates to supervise dive activities and assist instructors. We teach our Divemaster course as an internship. This is the best way to learn and will prepare you well for the next jump to the PADI Instructor level. Our shipmates are working full-time alongside our instructors for the duration of a complete PADI Open Water course. No other training method allows for such real life experience and, at ActionQuest, our flotilla sailing concept allows students to learn techniques from up to 14 professional diving instructors. Divemasters who learn this way possess a much better understanding of the ‘how’s and why’s’ of dive training, as it gives a practical rather than purely classroom perspective.

• Teach PADI Discover Snorkeling programs • Conduct PADI Scuba Review programs for certified divers • Lead certified divers on Discover Local Diving experiences

”

I can truthfully say that this has been the best three weeks of my life. Your program is fantastic. There are not many

As with all of our programs, you’ll be in the water a lot, but it’s not all dive, dive, dive. As well as learning to sail, water ski and wakeboard, you’ll see all that the BVI has to offer; swim off the deserted beaches of Anegada, visit island towns, sample the local food and dance to the reggae beats.

opportunities in life when you can become close to people from all over the world, sail, scuba dive and live in paradise, all at the same time. I’m very fortunate to have been part of

”

something so great.

TAYLOR COTTON NORTHBORO, MA

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

17 & OVER VOYAGES

MINERVA

ODYSSEUS

DARWIN

BILLABONG

BORA BORA

LOCATION

Leeward & French Caribbean

Mediterranean

Galapagos & Ecuador

Australia & Great Barrier Reef

Tahiti & French Polynesia

PROGRAM FOCUS

Sailing expedition with water sports and island exploration

Tall ship sailing adventure along the coasts of France, Italy & Monaco

Eco-adventure travel with community service

Travel adventure from Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef with scuba & sailing

Sailing adventure throughout the Polynesian islands of Tahiti, Moorea & the Motus

DURATION

21 days

22 days

ACTIVITIES

Sailing Scuba* Seamanship Shore Exploration Trekking Offshore Sailing Night Sailing Water Skiing Wakeboarding Dinghy Handling

Sailing Seamanship Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Trekking Historical Tours Dinghy Handling Offshore Sailing Night Sailing

Volcano & Jungle Adventures Boat Expedition Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Natural Sciences Community Service Snorkeling Trekking White Water Rafting

Sailing Scuba* Cultural Experience Shore Exploration Snorkeling Rainforest Tours Surfing Trekking White Water Rafting

Sailing Snorkeling Scuba* Trekking Shore Exploration Cultural Experience Dinghy Handling Offshore Sailing Night Sailing

No previous experience necessary

No previous experience necessary.

PREREQUISITE

*Various options for certified or non-certified divers

GLOBAL ADVENTURES

*Various options for certified or non-certified divers

MINERVA VOYAGE

Leeward & French Caribbean Islands Sailing Expedition Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience No Experience Necessary

ECUADOR GALAPAGOS

TAHITI & FRENCH POLYNESIA

AUSTRALIA & GREAT BARRIER REEF

ANGUILLA TORTOLA

ATLANTIC OCEAN

ST. MARTIN ST. BARTHELEMY

ST. EUSTATIUS ST. KITTS

N W

E S

LE EW AR D

ANTIGUA

NEVIS

MONTSERRAT

The Minerva expedition is a fast-paced sailing, hiking and shore exploration adventure that sails from the BVI south to the island of Antigua and back. Living aboard a 50-ft monohull or 46-ft catamaran, you’ll visit 10 different islands. The voyage’s main focus is sailing and island exploration, yet there will be time to take advantage of these incredible waters by scuba diving, snorkeling, water skiing and wakeboarding. Shore side, the mountainous terrain offers some of the most challenging and rewarding hiking in the Caribbean. The cultural and geological diversity seen over such a small geographic area is enormous; customs and currencies change as often as the language spoken; some islands are flat and dry, others mountainous and exotic.

ActionQuest offers adventures that span the globe. Whether setting out to sail in the tropical south pacific or dive on the Great Barrier Reef, AQ encourages you to seek your own challenge.

So go ahead and dash up to the edge of the rainforest at Golden Rock Estate for a peek at the native Green Monkeys. Investigate Antigua’s paths overlooking the sea to scout out artifacts. And watch a sunset so beautiful that it’s almost a spiritual experience atop Shirley Heights, while listening to the thumps of a Caribbean steel band.

www.actionquest.com

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

LEEWARD & FRENCH CARIBBEAN

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

S ND LA

The BVI, Saba, Statia, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. Barts and St. Martin are a few of the impressive Caribbean Islands that form the Leewards. This spectacular setting makes an ideal adventure destination. With its balmy trade winds, lush rainforests, clear ocean and pink sandy beaches, you will soon discover why.

MEDITERRANEAN

ODYSSEUS

DARWIN VOYAGE

Mediterranean Tall Ship Sailing Voyage

Galapagos & Ecuador Expedition

No Experience Necessary

You will voyage from the south of PORTO VENERE France, around Corsica, Sardinia, FRANCE ITALY MONACO over to Italy and then north, via NICE CANNES Elba to Monte Carlo, back once again to the French Riviera on ELBA CALVI ROME the fast-paced Odysseus Voyage. CORSICA This adventure offers the BONIFACIO N opportunity to develop basic and W E PORTO CERVO MEDITERRANEAN S advanced sailing skills, explore SEA SARDINIA a unique part of the world and develop an appreciation for the abundant history and culture that these renowned destinations have to offer. Under the guidance of staff, you and your crew will take charge of running the vessel and navigate to over 10 different ports of call along the deep blue Mediterranean Sea.

The 100 islands of the W E S Galapagos Archipelago were OTAVALO GALAPAGOS ARCHIPELAGO formed about four million QUITO YACHANA COTOPAXI SEYMOUR PACIFIC years ago. Separated from OCEAN BALTRA TENA PLAZAS South America by the Pacific, SANTA FE SANTA CRUZ this once-lonely island group ECUADOR SAN CRISTOBAL is one of the most biologically FLOREANA ESPANOLA important places on earth. Each island is totally different PERU and their wildlife is unlike any other. Run in conjunction with our community service program, Lifeworks, the Darwin expedition explores both the mainland of Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands, offering a combination of high-paced adventure and 20 to 40 hours of community service.

Each country, town or port provides a different experience. Dialects and local customs change almost daily as you sail back into history and follow in the wake of Ulysses. Focusing on navigation and boat handling, there will be overnight sails to sharpen seamanship skills, as well as daytime sailing along rugged coastlines. Once in port, the focus shifts to what each town and port has to offer. You will see historic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, the Pantheon, the Vatican City and the Roman Forum. You’ll even hike to Napoleon’s place of exile on the island of Elba. On our return, you’ll stop over at Paloma Beach for a game of frisbee and volleyball and even have time to explore the streets of Monte Carlo and Promenades of Cannes and San Tropez.

In Ecuador, you will whitewater raft through spectacular gorges and canyons, experience conservation first-hand at an eco-lodge in the heart of Ecuador’s Amazon Rainforest and hike over the volcanic terrain of the Cotopaxi National Park. In the Galapagos, you’ll soon be swimming with sea lions, floating eye-to-eye with a penguin or witnessing a blue-footed booby perform its distinctive courtship dance. You’ll also explore the islands’ desert landscapes, lush highlands and nutrient-rich waters. Speaking of water - you’ll head out on a 4-day boat trip with a local naturalist guide. Joining forces with the Galapagos National Parks for the remainder of the program, you will help to preserve this natural wonderland through service projects such as non-native species eradication and biodiversity studies.

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience

Adventure travel with eco-tours, whitewater rafting and community service

PORT AYORA

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

BILLABONG

BORA BORA

Australia & the Great Barrier Reef Adventure

Tahiti & French Polynesian Islands Voyage

No Experience Necessary

Adventure travel with sailing, scuba and community service

INDIAN OCEAN

Created about three million TUPAI N years ago by huge undersea W E MAUPITI BORA BORA volcanic eruptions, French S TAHAA Polynesia forms part of the HUAHINI Society Islands. The 118 islands nestled in the heart of the trade RAIATEA winds offer world-class sailing, PACIFIC PAPEETE MOOREA OCEAN scuba diving and snorkeling as well as adventurous island TAHITI trekking. The Bora Bora voyage takes you from one picture-perfect island to the next - all with soaring volcanic peaks, lush green hillsides and shimmering lagoons. Along the way, you’ll enhance your seamanship skills, dive and snorkel the vivid reefs and hike the green mountaintops. Imagine circumnavigating the entire tropical island of Bora Bora, all within its coral-fringed lagoon, exploring Tahaa on horseback and feeding the blue-eyed sacred eels in Huahini. Immerse yourself in Tahitian culture at Bastille Day celebrations, a month-long festival with everything from arts and crafts, to dancing and canoe races. See a page in history come alive when you visit the WWII cannons dragged up the Bora Bora hillsides by US troops to protect the islands from Japanese attack.

CAPE TRIBULATION CAIRNS TOWNSVILLE THE WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS

PACIFIC OCEAN

AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY

N W

E S

Billabong is a high action thrill ride. Cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge, surf the waves at Manly Beach, circumnavigate the Whitsunday Islands aboard a sailing yacht and join an intense scuba trip to the famous Great Barrier Reef. Here, on the world’s largest ecosystem, you’ll be blown away by the incredible corals and encounters with marine life, like a 300-pound grouper. We guarantee you’ll never forget whitewater rafting through some of the most inaccessible areas of the rainforest or hiking through Cape Tribulation where the rainforest and the reef meet at the water’s edge. In the nature parks, you’ll cuddle a real koala, hand feed a kangaroo, pat a wombat and join a crocodile cruise through the Daintree Rainforest which is reputed to be home to the greatest number of plant and animal species on earth. Still, you and your team find time to give a little back, by helping indigenous landowners restore damaged habitats. The adventures in Australia are as varied as the ‘down under’ wildlife!

www.actionquest.com

On the Bora Bora Voyage you will do all this and more. Hiking through rainforests in Raiatea, swimming above towering waterfalls in Papeete, snorkeling with tropical fish, and sampling (and preparing!) Tahitian cuisine are all part of this journey.

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

Billabong is all about adventure, exploration and leaving the world a little better than you found it. Traveling from Sydney in the south to Cape Tribulation in the north, our AQ Australian expedition includes sailing, scuba, surfing, trekking and community service.

Adventure travel with sailing, shore exploration and cultural experience

”

The whole trip was better than anything I could have expected!

”

GIORGINA DE LIMON BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

As a 4-year ActionQuester, I’m qualified to say AQ rocks! I walk away from this program with more and more each year. I learn so much about myself, and who I want to be.

”

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

JULIA DIMON CHICAGO, ILLINOIS

17 & OVER PROGRAMS

FOR PARENTS

We understand that parents want their kids to grow to be independent; capable of making positive choices that enable them to maximize their strengths, overcome their weaknesses and reach their fullest potential. Perhaps the hope for their happiness and success is at its strongest as kids reach the formative teen years. This is a pivotal time in their lives because these experiences and influences build the bridge from the children they once were to the adults they will become. ActionQuest provides our students with the tools they need to build a strong foundation for this transition. We do this by creating an environment that promotes self-discovery as well as social, emotional and intellectual growth. Over the years, ActionQuest has received countless letters from our shipmates and their parents that describe the impact AQ has had on them. Their words say more than we ever could about our programs.

THE FOLEY FAMILY

”

Dewey came home absolutely bursting with increased self-confidence and assurance. The encouragement and positive support he received to push himself, try new things and actually become a leader gave him a fullness of self that defies description. Abbie said to me, ‘I thought I would just learn new skills, like sailing and diving and water skiing, but what I really got was the opportunity to reflect on my life, my existence and goals... I can’t thank you enough, Mom, for sending me to ActionQuest.’ Your attention to each shipmate as an individual and your ability to teach them at a young age the value of living proactively as opposed to reactively has given each one of my children a secret innerstrength that they will be able to draw upon for a lifetime. Both kids had great things to say about the staff, the classes, the food, the yachts and the interpersonal growing that must be achieved to live successfully and so intimately with virtual strangers.

THE PALMER FAMILY

”

The self-confidence, leadership and ability to be proactive in both my work and personal life are skills I attribute to my AQ voyage over a decade ago. During one of the Lifeworks Forums, I had a defining moment where I realized I could be the kind of person that stands up and takes charge instead of letting others make decisions for me. I carried that momentum with me while studying advertising at Boston University, working at my first job, becoming a Senior Account Executive at the age of 23 managing over 120 accounts and today, as the VP of Marketing for the Citigroup Rewards Program, Thank you Network. ActionQuest isn’t just a summer adventure. It’s a life-changing experience that gives you tools that serve you throughout life and memories that last forever.

SUSAN FOLEY BIRMINGHAM, MI

”

THE ACH FAMILY

FOR PARENTS

ALEXIS ZINBERG (FORMERLY ALEXIS PALMER)

”

” ”

”

I felt [the program] inspired me to do new things in helping others.

When Alexis came back from ActionQuest, it was clear that she had experienced an incredible transformation. She came back a self-confident leader. She became the VP of her youth group and then applied for early decision to college. I sent Alexis’s little brothers Brent and Jared to ActionQuest this last summer. They came back more self-confident, mature and responsible. Brent really began to take charge of his future after his AQ experience. And when he talks about scuba diving, his eyes just light up. He is absolutely a changed person. And Jared made so many friends. As a parent, you can’t ask for anything more. You don’t think of a summer program as having that kind of impact, but it does.

”

MICHAEL ACH

Michael came to you as a bright, straightforward teenager, but I do not think he realized this. His father, brother, sister and I have always realized just what a wonderful young man he is. We sent Michael to you to show him what he could accomplish, the friends he could make (without judgment) and the person he has yet to be. All we can say is thank you, thank you, thank you. His experiences with his crew mates, staff and locals really changed him. We see a new, more vital teenager on our hands. We hope to send Michael next year so he can continue his ‘Quest’ into full adulthood.

DEBBIE PALMER MANHATTAN, NY

”

THERESA, PAUL, CHRIS & SARAH ACH BABYLON, NY

FOR PARENTS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

In the course of our 40-year history, we’ve answered our share of program questions. Below are a few of the most common questions we receive. If you don’t see your question, or if you would rather speak to us directly, please call any time on +1.941.924.6789. HOW DO I HELP MY TEENAGER CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROGRAM?

The variety of programs and destinations can be overwhelming. The Vega Voyage is our biggest and broadest program in terms of the activities we do and the certifications students earn. We recommend this program for those with limited or no previous experience in sailing and scuba who are looking for an exciting introduction to these and other water sports such as water skiing, windsurfing and wakeboarding. Beginning sailors and divers can also select any program marked ‘No experience necessary’ and there are plenty of those to choose from.

WHAT IS THE ‘ABOARD’ ENVIRONMENT LIKE?

ActionQuest’s programs are more than voyages with instruction in sailing and diving; they are a total educational experience. Participants arrive with the understanding that they will be part of the ‘crew in training,’ ready to share the work from food preparation to navigation, and everything in between. Shipmates rotate positions each day for variety. Evenings are largely devoted to program material aboard. We are a co-ed program. Girls live in separate cabins. Privacy is thus maintained even with 10 to 14 shipmates all living within 50 feet of each other! These are dry ships — no alcohol or illegal drugs — and no smoking for health and safety reasons. We expect all students to maintain an atmosphere of respect and consideration.

CAN I SPEAK TO PAST STUDENTS AND PARENTS ABOUT THEIR AQ EXPERIENCE?

FOR ANSWERS TO MORE FAQS, VISIT:

www.actionquest.com

This depends on which voyage you select. In most cases we charter our vessels through Sunsail / Moorings, the world’s largest charter company. Whether a traditional single-hulled yacht (monohull) or catamaran, all are in the 50-foot range. Each of these vessels has a minimum of 5 cabins, a large salon which converts to a 6th cabin and four full bathrooms (heads). Occasionally we utilize our 112-ft Sea|mester schooner, S/Y Argo, for special voyages as she circumnavigates the globe. The vessel choice for the Billabong Voyage is dependent on the number of enrolled shipmates. For the past couple of years, we have used Avatar, a 67-ft oceanracing trimaran.

WHERE DO YOU ALL SLEEP?

For most programs students move aboard their yacht right away. Typically this is where we live full-time. With a minimum of 5 cabins and a large salon that converts to a 6th, there’s enough room for us all to sleep down below. For the most part, the evenings are clear and dry and most of us like to sleep out on deck, swinging in a hammock under the stars. During programs that contain a land based component we typically stay in hotels or hostels.

WHAT DO I HAVE TO BUY TO PARTICIPATE?

ActionQuest provides all equipment necessary for our activities. This includes all scuba diving equipment (except for wetsuits, if needed). We will send a clothing list of general items to bring and information on spending money needed for ice cream and souvenirs. We do require that all participants join DAN (the Divers Alert Network) for their membership benefits. Those enrolling in certain scuba courses are required to purchase the necessary PADI books and materials for their use after the program. (est. $55) 41

FOR PARENTS

Yes, and we actively encourage it. While we guard our parents’ privacy, 95 percent volunteer to act as references for new parents. Upon request, we will be happy to pass along names of AQ alumni who are of a similar age and have participated in the same voyage you are considering.

WHAT TYPE OF YACHTS DO YOU USE?

FOR MORE INFORMATION, LOG ON TO:

HOW MANY SHIPMATES ARE ON A VOYAGE?

Our largest programs in the British Virgin Islands may have as many as three small flotillas of four boats sailing together, each with 8 to 14 students aboard. This allows us to place teens aboard based upon their age and grade. It’s a lot of fun sailing as part of a larger group, where our shipmates can interact with many other teens and staff from all over the world. Our smaller voyages are limited to 20 students or less.

WHAT IS THE STAFF TO STUDENT RATIO?

The staff to student ratio is 1:4. Staff members live aboard full-time. There will be one skipper, your first mate who is typically a diving instructor and a third staff member who could also be a diving instructor, Emergency Medical Technician, marine biologist, naturalist guide or someone with other special skills. The voyage dictates the particular staff count and staff type according to program activities.

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE?

Depends on who’s cooking! We send a container of wholesome dry goods to the islands, which we supplement with fresh vegetables and fruit. Still, we can’t claim gourmet cuisine as the chef of the day makes all the difference. The meal instructions are very simple so anyone can easily prepare them. Contact us and we’ll send you a menu.

FOR PARENTS

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN LEARNING SCUBA? Learning to dive is easy! The PADI training courses involve learning through a number of media, reinforcing knowledge and skills during academic classes, confined water and open water training sessions. Students begin their training in shallow water (much like a swimming pool). Once this is complete, they continue on to open water training, always with an instructor.

WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATION?

We understand the importance of communication and provide as much opportunity for shipmates to touch base with home as we can. When sailing with us, a lot is learned through total immersion in the program and group activities. Personal phone calls can be disruptive to this process and, for this reason we only allow cell phones to be used once every few days when we are ashore. Alternative communication methods are as follows.

TRIP BLOGS:

During the summer, parents and friends can vicariously live aboard by following the trip blogs that we post to our Web site. As often as possible, we’ll post short log entries from each vessel written by the students aboard. It is not possible to post these updates daily and, being at the mercy of someone else’s Internet connection, it can sometimes take a week! We developed this system as a bonus for Mom and Dad and ask that all parents understand our limitations, supporting this system as an addition to - rather than an expectation of - the program.

PHONE CALLS:

Phone access varies from program to program. In the BVI, Leewards and Mediterranean, we are in ports with reliable public phones every 2-4 days. In Australia, phone systems are efficient, but with a time difference of about 15 hours it may be difficult for shipmates to call during daylight hours. As a backup communication system, ActionQuest staff will be in contact with our Sarasota office via cell or satellite telephones most days.

MAIL:

With mail taking up to three weeks to reach many of our program destinations this is not a viable option.

EMAIL:

CHECK OUT ALL THE ACTIVITIES...

WATCH OUR ONLINE MOVIES

There are times when we are ashore and it is possible to send and receive an email or two from an Internet Café. However, our vessels do not have computers or Internet connectivity, so email contact is limited.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE?

The weather varies according to the destination. The chart below indicates the average temperatures in these locations from June through August.

AVERAGE TEMPS DURING VOYAGE DESTINATION

AIR

WATER

BVI

83ºF

81ºF

MEDITERRANEAN

75ºF

73ºF

GALAPAGOS

78ºF

58ºF

SOUTH PACIFIC

82ºF

AUSTRALIA SYDNEY

63ºF

62ºF

AUSTRALIA WHITSUNDAY’S

72ºF

71ºF

In the Caribbean, trade winds blow a steady 8–14 knots and the average summer temperature is 83ºF with 76 percent humidity and 81ºF water temperature. (South Florida by comparison averages 89ºF with humidity of 87 percent.) We routinely monitor the weather and stay in touch with the yacht base so that, in the unlikely event of a storm passing through; we will have two or three days’ notice and will be in absolute shelter. When ‘island hopping,’ we are never out of sight of, or more than a few miles from land. In the BVI, we also have cellular phones on board for instant communication in the event of emergency.

FOR PARENTS

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WE HOPE THIS BROCHURE HAS PROVIDED YOU WITH ALL OF THE INFORMATION YOU NEED TO DECIDE IF ACTIONQUEST IS RIGHT FOR YOU. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS AT ALL, PLEASE CONTACT US ON +1. 941.924.6789. READY TO BEGIN YOUR AQ JOURNEY? FOLLOW THE NEXT STEPS BELOW.

SELECT YOUR VOYAGE

COMPLETE THE ONLINE AQ APPLICATION FORM Hit submit and the process is underway! Most students enroll early to ensure a spot in the voyage of their choice, yet there is no set application deadline. There are, however, a limited number of spaces available so complete this step as soon as possible. If the voyage you request is fully booked, you may, at your option, remain on the waiting list. Deposits are fully refundable if you are not accepted into the program of your choice.

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT AND YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE READY TO GO! TRAVEL INFORMATION

ASK ANY PROGRAM QUESTIONS

Students come from all points of the compass, so coordinated air travel is of vital importance. For this reason, we require that all international tickets to non-Caribbean destinations are purchased though our Travel Coordinator, so that all members of the team can fly on the same prearranged, group itinerary. We highly recommend that students flying to the Caribbean also book through our Travel Coordinator as they regularly obtain the best fares available, arrange group seating and provide close monitoring on travel days in case of flight difficulties. As airlines often change their schedules, ActionQuest cannot be responsible for the coordination of air flights not booked through our Travel Coordinator.

when we contact you to confirm registration and assure compatibility among our shipmates.

READ THROUGH THE AQ INFORMATION PACKET

Specific information on our travel coordinator, including all contact information is available online.

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and return necessary forms.

In March, ActionQuest will send a link to the online student portal which contains all of the information such as checklists, medical form, clothing list, scuba program forms (if applicable), summer communications information, travel and contact instructions.

ENROLL ONLINE TODAY, LOG ON TO:

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