Darcy's Sea Camp

Darcy and her father took today and headed over to the Florida Aquarium so that Darcy could swim with the "fishes". This is an educational program for students and a chance to be up close in a simulated coral reef with over 2, 300 different types of fish. Darcy signed up as she was unable to go with the rest of her class on its trip to Sea Camp in the keys this weekend.

First she was outfitted with a wet suit, a mask, and flippers. Then she and the rest of the class sat and listened as the instructors explained how to use a regulator and a tank of oxygen. The tank would keep them above the surface as if snorkeling, yet offer them a introduction to scuba diving.

The instructors also explained about the coral reef and how to care for it. They talked about the fish they would see and about the sea turtle and eel who have been at the aquarium for years.

They entered the water and had a demonstration on using their equipment. Darcy had trouble getting her mask on as her hair was too dry, but she didn't want to wet it as she was worried she would miss out on some instruction concerning the eel!

Once the introduction was over and they were suited up off they went. The water was a cool 72 degrees and clear to the divers.

She saw lots of fish

and coral and sea life

and she made sure to keep her eye out for the eel who slithered through the tank.

She enjoyed the sea turtle

and the many fish swimming under and around her.

The whole adventure was a success and she enjoyed herself immensely. She feels good that she got to experience a little of the same things that her classmates are experiencing, and she also got an afternoon experience with her Dad!