NAC Avalon Ocean Club embarked on its first-ever overnight camping adventure down the coast to Emerald Bay. This marked the farthest and longest our young ocean warriors have ventured from Avalon as a team, and what an incredible 24 hours it was.
What started as an idea became a reality through an amazing collaboration with Bleu World, led by Kayla F. Thanks to generous donations, community support, and a shared passion for ocean education, this dream adventure came to life.
With the support of Catalina Divers Supply, Captain Sean welcomed our crew aboard the Scuba Cat and set us off on our coastal voyage. Ahead of us were 24 hours packed with camping, marine science, day and night snorkeling, kayaking, and plenty of salty adventures.
Camp Life & Nighttime Ocean Magic
Once ashore, our campers wasted no time getting creative with their tent arrangements, turning our little coastal campsite into a cozy home away from home. After settling in and enjoying a delicious meal, it was time to hit the water for some nighttime lobster spotting.
And boy, did the ocean deliver! Giant lobsters were hanging out all along the rocky coastline, making for an incredible underwater experience. Snorkeling beneath a sky full of stars was pure magic and certainly a memory our ocean warriors won’t soon forget.
Marine Science Meets Ocean Adventure
Bright and early, our crew fueled up with a 7:30 a.m. breakfast before diving straight into another round of snorkeling and kayaking.
This time, there was science behind the adventure. Our young marine explorers participated in conservation research, collecting data and counting fish species along their snorkel route. It was an incredible opportunity to connect their love for the ocean with the importance of understanding and protecting marine ecosystems.
Mother Nature also decided to throw in a little challenge. Strong winds picked up during our kayak adventure, putting our ocean warriors’ skills and teamwork to the test. With calm, cool, and collected attitudes, everyone navigated the conditions and made it safely back to shore. A proud moment of ocean confidence, resilience, and watermanship.
Aquarium Adventures & Curious Minds
After a well-earned lunch, we headed to the aquarium, which was an absolute hit.
Between interactive touch tanks, scavenger hunts, and discovering all kinds of fascinating marine species, our crew was fully immersed in the wonders of ocean life. So many curious questions, exciting discoveries, and hands-on learning moments made this stop extra special.
One Last Mission Before Heading Home
With reports of rougher seas approaching from a hurricane developing to the south, we wrapped up our adventure with one final marine science mission: collecting data on human activity and ocean recreation in the area.
Then it was time to pack up, hop aboard the Scuba Cat, and enjoy a beautiful boat ride back to Avalon, bringing home salty gear, tired smiles, new knowledge, and a whole lot of memories.
What a milestone for NAC Avalon Ocean Club
This adventure was about so much more than camping. It was about independence, teamwork, ocean confidence, marine conservation, and giving our island youth the opportunity to explore their own incredible backyard in a whole new way.
A huge thank you to Bleu World, Kayla F., Catalina Divers Supply, Captain Sean, and everyone whose generosity and support made this experience possible. We are beyond grateful to be creating these opportunities for the next generation of ocean stewards.