NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation (BREEF) has wrapped up another successful season of its Sea Camps, held across Nassau, Eleuthera, and Andros under the theme “Marine Explorers.” These camps provided children with empowering and educational experiences centered around marine conservation and the importance of protecting the ocean’s delicate ecosystems.
This year’s Nassau Sea Camp, hosted at Ardastra Gardens & Wildlife Conservation Centre, brought together 30 children for a week of hands-on activities designed to foster a deep connection with the marine environment. A highlight was a snorkeling excursion at Bonefish Pond, where campers explored the marine life up close and attended a Bonefish & Tarpon Trust presentation.
Eight-year-old camper Henry McWilliam expressed his excitement: “I enjoyed snorkeling and learning about bonefish. It was great to see them up close.” Twelve-year-old Jonathan Pierre also shared his experience: “What I enjoyed most was snorkeling, making friends, and doing arts and crafts.”
The Sea Camp in Eleuthera, held at the Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour, focused on the significance of key fisheries like the Queen Conch. Daily snorkeling excursions allowed campers to explore the underwater world and learn practical skills, such as measuring the thickness of a conch lip to ensure it meets fisheries regulations. During one snorkeling trip, campers discovered a pile of discarded conch shells near a local stand, identifying several that did not meet the legal size requirements.
“I liked playing the trivia games, snorkeling, and I want to identify more marine species in the future,” said Chloe Lightbourne, a 12-year-old camper from Eleuthera. Nine-year-old Cohen Simmons, who is now considering a career in marine biology, added, “I liked exploring the ocean with the fish ID slates. One day, I found a lionfish, and after that, I just wanted to keep looking for more fish.”
Andros hosted the final camp of the season at Kamalame Cay. Campers embarked on a boat trip to Pigeon Cay in the Andros North Marine Park. Along the way, they were treated to the sight of a pod of dolphins swimming beside the boat. Upon reaching their destination, they snorkeled in the protected waters, deepening their connection with the marine environment.
“I liked it when the dolphins came up to the boat and swam beside us. I want to come back to see them again,” said 13-year-old Alexander Wilson. Another camper, 12-year-old Makhi Cox, shared, “I liked the boat ride and exploring the mangroves. I wish I could learn about nature at this camp all summer long.”
Throughout the Sea Camps, participants explored nature and engaged in arts and crafts, games, and educational presentations. Equipped with fish ID slates, these young explorers identified various marine species, enhancing their understanding of the Bahamian coastal ecosystems and building a lasting connection with the environment.
The success of the Nassau, Eleuthera, and Andros Sea Camps has set the stage for future adventures, with students eagerly anticipating next year’s camps. BREEF remains committed to inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards, fostering a sense of appreciation for the Bahamian marine environment, and teaching practical water skills.
“Watching the students grow throughout these camps was truly inspiring. Seeing them get comfortable in the marine environment with high hopes and spirits gives us great hope for the future,” said Jasmond Collie, BREEF Outreach & Education Officer and Lead Camp Coordinator.
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