From exploring the surface, to diving beneath the ocean waves, a voyage aboard the Endurance brings with it a multitude of raw emotions that can embolden the most fearful, inspire the most discouraged, and impassion the most indifferent.

Bringing these sentiments alive in the hearts of every student is a priority at the Bermuda Zoological Society, especially as we strive to awaken a desire in them to protect and conserve our environment through opportunities that allow them to not just witness, but experience the wonders of nature.

Since 2008, the 45-foot Endurance, has served as our floating classroom through which children and adults can explore Bermuda’s marine environment. And while the weather of late may not seem to be conducive to boating, the Endurance’s 2015 calendar is already filling up as we move into spring with Whale Watching Tours beginning March 12, followed by the Spring Natural History Course at the end of April, and so much more.

An Aqua Camp student exploring and surveying coral reefs off
of the side of the Endurance. Photo courtesy of Chris Burville

Each year, Captain Nigel Pollard, Endurance’s fun-filled captain, schedules about 150 trips out to sea – that works out to an average of three voyages per week. Half of all those trips are for marine-based educational trips, which are free to all school groups.

Several senior school classes enhance their coursework with our “Coral Reef Biology” and “Marine Chemistry” classes, which involves ocean research, while primary school students love heading out to local sea grass beds to look for green sea turtles.

In May and June, middle school students have the opportunity to participate in Kids On The Reef, a unique programme run in collaboration with world-class South African free-diver Hanli Prinsloo and the I Am Water Foundation.

According to Kids On The Reef coordinator and BZS Educator Dr. Alex Amat, “The yoga, breathing and theory sessions in the classroom all come to life when children step on the Endurance to go out at sea. We always find a sheltered spot for them to get comfortable in the water and experience the marvels of a nearby reef on the first day, with a visit to North Rock on the second day, weather permitting.”

Aqua Camp students returning from a snorkeling trip with representatives
from Endurance sponsor, RUBiS Energy Bermuda. Photo courtesy of Sara Westhead

P5 and P6 students can enjoy a similar one-day programme each fall called “Water is Me”, during which they spend time learning about the water cycle and doing experiments in the morning, before boarding the Endurance for an afternoon of snorkeling.

“It is so rewarding to give some of these children their first ever snorkeling experience from such a safe and comfortable platform,” Dr. Amat said.

Captain Nigel is equally busy during the summer months when Aqua Camp is in session, whereby most Aqua Zoo and Aqua Explorers campers have the opportunity for at least one trip aboard during their week of camp.

Endurance also serves as a floating research lab and classroom for overseas colleges and scientists. She acts as the “mother ship” during our annual In-Water Turtle Course, the two-week course offered by the Bermuda Turtle Project, and is also used for field trips during our semi-annual Natural History Course offerings for adults and for our annual Reef Watch Citizen Scientist programme.

Endurance Captain Nigel Pollard at the helm with students from T.N. Tatem
on a kids on the reef snorkeling and free-diving trip.Photo courtesy of Chris Burville

“The Endurance is an important asset, mainly because it allows the youth of Bermuda the unbelievable opportunity to get up-close and personal with what they are learning in the classroom,” added Captain Nigel. “The hands on experience allows for a greater understanding of the world around you.”

“The Endurance embodies the concept of experiential learning par excellence!” added Dr. Amat.

We are extremely thankful to RUBiS Energy Bermuda, who provides fuel for the vessel, thus allowing us to continue offering free marine-based education to Bermuda’s students. We are also grateful to RUBiS for fueling the BZS/BAMZ bus that transports students to and from BAMZ and field sites throughout the year.

Teachers interested in taking their students out aboard The Endurance for an educational experience should contact our Education Office at edofficer.bzs@gov.bm or by calling 293-2727 ext. 2142.