This week after students completed and passed their National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) certifications they took to the waters for a sea kayaking and sail expedition on the island of Solarte. Students paddled four hours through the calm rapids around  the archipelago Bocas del Toro weaving in and out of mangroves while enjoying the tranquility of the waves. They kayaked to Pulpa island to the community of Sandubidi where students helped complete a service project helping to paint the outside of a school and also enjoying a hot fresh meal. Students pitched their tents and prepared next morning to head back to Solarte and spend some time with local conservationists at San San Pond Sak. While off-land, they learned about the importance of sea turtle conservation and information from local instructors about their intricate habitats and preparations for hatching season. At night while patrolling the sand for hatching baby turtles, they witnessed a rare sighting of a sea turtle laying its eggs and crawling back into the sea. During the day, students also visited the town of Bocas del Toro getting an inside look into the culture of the indigenous afro-carribean people who speak their own distinct language along with a brief history about the island. Today the students returned from Panama and settle down for a nights rest at our Tres Rios base as some prepare for early departure tomorrow morning! Adios!

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