Programs Blog

February 19, 2026

Moored

Winds E, Force 2

In view of Fort Christiansvaern, Christiansted, St. Croix

Greetings from the aft cabin of the Corwith Cramer! After yesterday’s long, full day of travel for most, our coral reef researchers and student crew arrived to the ship in time for introductions, a brief safety orientation, a satisfying meal, and the chance to get settled into their bunks to get some rest.

The morning’s agenda included some more detailed orientation to shipboard life and the work of the ship, plenty of water breaks, delicious meals and snacks, and student crew and professional crew getting to know each other.

In the afternoon, student crew toured The Nature Conservancy’s Estate Little Princess Coral Innovation Hub to learn more about that organization’s coral restoration work and the importance of coral reefs both historically and today. Many thanks to our guides, Amanda Boissiere and Kemit Sweeney, who spent over two hours introducing students to the property and the research facilities and fielding plenty of questions!

The end of our afternoon had both students and staff in the water for another snorkel training, but this time, in the shallow coastal waters along the beachfront at the TNC property!

Stay tuned for updates on our time in St. Croix and shipboard life from our student crew/coral reef researchers later this week!

Fair Winds!

Craig Marin, Marine Environmental Historian and Co-Program Director