Activities
Giving Back
On Sierra, we learn from the island environment as we enjoy the beauty that the BVI offers. The residence of the British Virgin Islands welcome us into the paradise they call home and teach us new ways of interacting with the oceans and the land. To balance all we gain from local communities, we make it a practice to show our appreciation in ways that benefit the British Virgin Islanders. Each year, Sail Caribbean invites the local youth to join us for a day of sailing, learning about the oceans and cultural exchange. It's an opportunity to share some fun and really get to know one another!
While marine natural science, sailing and diving are the main focuses on our Sierra Tropical Marine Science for Divers program, there is so much more! In order to balance work and play, you'll spend a day at the Bitter End Yacht Club, a 5-star resort on Virgin Gorda, and enjoy watersport activities such as tubing and wake boarding, as well as going ashore on Norman Island for virgin drinks, and a colossal game of Jenga!
Watersports
Snorkeling
Watch from the surface as the undersea world bustles with life. Stingrays, parrotfish, massive schools of silversides fleeing as giant Tarpon calmly swim by. Harmless nurse sharks, giant Green turtles and Eagle Rays are often seen gently swimming along in the distance.
Kayaking
Perfect for relaxing coastline exploration, or some good old fun with the crew.
Windsurfing
Our instructors will have you carving gybes across the bay in no time, or at least sailing across the anchorage.
Waterskiing and more
Experience the rush of adrenaline as you try wakeboarding, waterskiing or tubing for some fast passed, high energy fun!
Small Boat Sailing
They say less is more, so trade your 47' catamaran for a Laser, Hobie Cat, Vanguard 15 or Hunter 216 and get even closer to the water.
Marine Research Diving
You'll play an important role in preserving and sustaining the endangered ecosystems of the Caribbean. Put your academic learning and your scuba diving skills to use during environmental service projects with sea turtles and coral reefs. It's as exciting as it is rewarding. You'll also monitor the health of Coral Reefs and Fish populations while collecting valuable data that will help make a difference in the ecological well-being of our planet. Whether diving or snorkeling, there will still be plenty time to enjoy spectacular coves and caves just for the fun of it!
Explore the Islands
Since Columbus, explorers have been amazed by the natural beauty and variety of the Caribbean islands - you will be too. At Sierra marine biology camps, you'll hike and swim through a mangrove forest and scale the boulders at The Baths. Riding in a truck, you will get an experience of the steepness of the island, and a chance to see the sights! You'll see why the islanders cherish this part of the world and get a chance to meet its unique characters, born of a melting pot of cultures. You'll chat with friendly local people, and shop for local crafts and souvenirs.
Social Events
There's no shortage of opportunity to meet new people. You'll be living on a sailboat with 6-10 other high school students, who quickly become like family. We often travel together with other Sail Caribbean programs. When we go ashore you'll also meet other students and staff to enhance the fun. We will all gather for one large night of fun and activities, over 175 people! We will also have other smaller gatherings among programs. During the day, you're all working together to improve the planet. As the sun goes down there could be a barbecue, we might hit a local restaurant for dinner, or dance at a beachside disco. To wrap it all up, your crew competes for honor and glory at the Sail Caribbean Olympics, a time-honored tradition that's a highlight of each voyage.