End of Phase

The first phase of 2010 has come to an end and what a phase it has been! Highlights have included watching hundreds of Hawksbill turtles hatch at night, visiting the giant tortoises on Curieuse Island and seeing grey reef and guitar sharks while out diving on the beautiful reefs in the area. Just when we thought that was it, on the last diving day of the phase some of the volunteers had a brief encounter with a couple of dolphins. We had just reached our dive site when a pod of dolphins appeared in the distance moving towards the boat. The volunteers quickly put on their masks and fins and jumped into the water just in time to see a pair of bottlenose dolphins appear beneath them. It was a rare and exciting experience to see these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat.

Thursday night was the end of phase party and a chance to relax with a Seychellois barbeque cooked by local chef Philippe. It was a fabulous spread with a selection of different curries, marinated fish, and various vegetable dishes. There was much dancing and the party went on into the early hours of the morning.

On Friday morning the volunteers said their goodbyes as they prepared to leave the expedition base for the last time. It has been a wonderful start to the year with some amazing experiences had and new friendships made. We wish them all the best as they return home to their friends and family. We are also pleased to announce that three of the volunteers will be remaining with us for another phase as scholars. Juan Corbi, Jaqui Trassierra, and Katie Monroe have decided they do not want to leave this paradise island and we are pleased to have them on board as we look forward to the second phase of the year.

End of Phase