Aggressor Fleet® Aggressor Fleet

Transcription

A gU g r e sL s-Ao r F l e e t
®
the
l t i m at e i n
ive
b o a r d s ®®
Cruise News
Inside:
New Destination: Baja Aggressor
Divers Giving Back to the Community
Digital Photo Contest Results
Money-saving Specials
Solar Eclipse in Maldives
Schooling Hammerheads Cocos Island, Costa Rica
w w w . aggress o r . c o m
What is the Live-aboard Lifestyle? It’s a week aboard
a floating resort. From the keel up, every Aggressor Fleet dive yacht is designed
with the diver’s safety and comfort in mind. Your relaxing week-long vacation includes
personal touches like delicious between-dive snacks, warm freshwater showers on
the dive deck and pampered service from an attentive crew—all for one great price.
Aggressor adventures are an incredible value. Everything is included: diving, deluxe
accommodations, meals, snacks, soft beverages, beer and wine.
Chef serving delicious meals.
Sun deck with
hot tub and wet bar.
Professional crew
offering guided dives,
Certification and Specialty
dive courses.
Digital photo center
with rental cameras.
Huge dive deck
with gear lockers
and nitrox fills.
Private staterooms
with ensuite baths.
Spacious salon &
PC station with e-mail.
Where do we dive?
EVERYWHERE!
· Baja, Mexico ·
· Belize, Central America ·
· Cayman Islands ·
· Cocos Island, Costa Rica ·
· Dominican Republic ·
· Galapagos, Ecuador ·
· Kona, Hawaii ·
· Maldives ·
· Palau, Micronesia ·
· Turks & Caicos ·
· Utila, Honduras ·
Addiction:
being abnormally
dependent on something that is psychologically
or physically habit-forming.
My name is Wayne Brown and I am a Scuba
Diver. My wife swears that I need to find the
local SDA—Scuba Divers Anonymous—group and admit I am
addicted! She warns me she is going to have an intervention and
cart me off to some land locked middle of nowhere desert until I
break....good luck!
So, we go a few days early or stay a couple of days after our
Aggressor dive charter and tour the local sights, take in the culture
and I am back in her good graces! Honestly, I too like to get
native with the locals when we go diving and there is no better
way than to get there a couple of days early to mix and mingle at
the local hot spots for food and drinks. We have made some great
friends over the years in every place we have traveled and those
memories help keep us satisfied until our next dive vacation.
Touring old ruins, shopping at the local markets or taking in the
country side, we have enjoyed every excursion we have been on.
No matter how they start out, there is always some highlight that
sticks with us!
So, yes, I probably am a Diving Addict...but she says she loves
me anyway!
Wayne B. Brown
Aggressor Fleet Chairman & CEO
Giant swim platform
accessing the world’s
best diving!
Our exotic destinations feature
something for EVERYONE:
· Whale Sharks ·
· Great White Shark Cage Diving ·
· Schooling Hammerheads ·
· Humpback Whales ·
· Sheer walls with tunnels and swim throughs ·
· Schooling Manta Rays ·
· Rainbows of soft corals ·
· Warm water with endless visibility ·
· Pristine reefs with enchanting macro life ·
· Fascinating Wrecks·
Come dive with the owners of
Aggressor Fleet Wayne B. Brown,
Chairman & CEO and Wayne Hasson,
President.
Dive with the Owners Charters
Cayman Aggressor IV: August 28 - September 4, 2010
Utila Aggressor: October 16 - 23, 2010
Palau Aggressor II: July 10-17, 2011
Okeanos Aggressor: Sept 24-Oct 4,2011
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A World
of Adventure Inside:
Kona, Hawaii
2
Money-Saving Specials
5
NEW DESTINATON: Baja 6
Utila, Honduras
8
Unique Itineraries
11
Turks & Caicos
12
Humpback Whales Trips 14
Photo Winners
16
Aqua Lung Demo Weeks 19
Belize
20
Enchanting Galapagos
22
Cayman Islands
24
Divers Helping Children 26
GatesFest
27
Construction Updates
28
Mike & Mike’s Workshops 30
Palau, Velasco Reef
32
Stan Waterman Weeks
35
More Add-on Tours
36
Cocos, Adrenaline Overload38
Haiti-Giving Back
40
Family Vacations
42
Maldives 44
Vacation Package Rates 48-54
Terms and Conditions
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800-348-2628 · info@aggressor.com · www.aggressor.com
Explore Hawaii’s
Lava Tubes and Craters
Only Kona Aggressor II guests explore
the uninhabited southernmost point of the Big Island!
“
Garden Eel Cove
After more than a dozen Aggressor trips, it’s hard to
pick the “best”. But my best “experience” has to be my
wife’s and my first trip on the Kona Aggressor II. It is so
easy to get to Hawaii, and you are guaranteed Mantas
Fiesty Critters
on the Fire ISland
Underwater volcanic craters and lava tubes
create a playground for rare Eels, Turtles, Dolphin,
Frogfish, Sharks and an endless list of endemic fish,
including several species of Butterfly Fish.
and other unusual sightings. I’ve done 1,000 dives all
over the world, and I’d vote for the Kona Aggressor II
”
as the best bang for the buck going! —Randy Preissig
Hawaii
Kailua-Kona
Meadows
Amphitheater
Rob’s Reef
Volcano
Au Au Crater
Nat. Park
The Hive
Okeo Bay
Manuka Bay
Wall’s Wall
Rainbow Reef
Kon a Itin er a ry · Sat u rday-to -Sat u rday
Day 1 Big Island Reception
Guests arriving at Keahole
Airport Saturday afternoon are
transferred to the yacht. Passengers may board after 6:00
p.m. Once everyone is aboard,
the yacht departs for its first anchorage while the chef
serves a scrumptious dinner. Afterwards, the Captain
gives a safety briefing, followed by a welcome party.
Day 2 Time to Get Wet!
With lava flows in the background, divers suit up for
the first dive, which begins Sunday morning. Guests
may enjoy up to five dives each day. Excellent snorkeling is available for non-diving passengers. While
you are diving, the chef prepares delicious snacks
and scrumptious meals, served on schedule. Night
dives are offered throughout the week.
Days 3, 4, 5 and 6 The West Side
Diving continues Monday through Thursday along
the Big Island’s western coast at favorites like
Paradise Pinnacle, Tubestria Tunnel, The Hive,
Turtle Pinnacle and Rob’s Reef. The yacht ventures far from the reach of
day operators to beautiful
South Point, the southernmost tip
of Hawaii and the United States,
weather permitting. Here you may
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Aquarium
Kalokos Arches
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encounter the rare Longnose Hawkfish, which hides
among the Black Coral.
Close Encounters
If you are looking
for wild nights,
then you’ll love
Hawaii’s nightlife!
Soaring
mantas
glide within feet of
divers’ masks during one of Aggressor’s signature
dives. The yacht’s lights attract swarms of plankton
and hungry mantas.
Day 7 Shopping in Kona
After diving, the Kona Aggressor II returns to KailuaKona at approximately 1:00 p.m. The Captain and
crew host an evening cocktail party at 5:00 p.m.
The crew will assist you with dinner at a local
Kona restaurant.
Day 8 Checkout
Checkout is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. Guests are transferred to the Kailua-Kona airport, or local hotel.
Itinerary may vary due to weather conditions and yacht location.
Reserve your Kona adventure
today at at www.aggressor.com
$
$
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$ MONEY-SAVING
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SPECIALS
Are you
“In the Know”?
If you are receiving Aggressor Fleet’s Hot News monthly e-newsletter, then you are “in the know.”
You will hear about Specials, Events and Hot News before anyone else. If you are not getting the
Hot News delivered to your desktop, please sign up today at “News” on www.aggressor.com.
Facebook, Twitter,
new Captain’s Log.
Maldives Aggressor save $800, Apr. 18-25, 2010
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$
$
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Follow the latest developments
through our Tweets and read the
latest dive reports on our all new
Captain’s Logs at www.aggressor.com.
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Where is the
Next Destination?
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Palau Aggressor II save $600, Aug. 29-Sep. 26, 2010, Oct. 3-24, 2010
• Active or Retired Military Personnel receive a 10% discount
• $200 discount for non-divers • $200 discount for consecutive charters • $100 discount for Seniors 65 and over • $100 discount for Law Enforcement, Firefighters, EMS
• $100 discount for Airline Pilots and Flight Attendants
• Kids ages 5-10 receive 25% off on “Family Weeks”* $
(ID required at time of reservation for discount) $
$
After your first charter you are automatically
enrolled in our Dive the World Club. Benefits include: • 10% off on onboard services; boutique items, rental gear and more. • Discounts on multiple charters taken within the same year. Save $100 on your
second trip within 12 months. Save $200 off your third trip within 12 months. • Entry into our annual free trip drawing where 12 free trips are given away.
* On Family Weeks, children ages 5-10 must stay in a cabin with a parent. On regular charters, the minimum
age is 10 years. No discount applies. Money-saving specials cannot be used in conjunction with discounted charters.
When multiple discounts apply, only the most generous can be applied to the charter rate. Please notify the agent of
any discounts or vouchers at the time of booking. Notification after final payment will result in forfeiture of discount.
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$
Club Weeks
Dive the World Club Weeks
Aggressor guests will receive 25% off the regular rates during these select weeks.
Searching for new and exciting destinations is part of Aggressor’s mission
as “The Ultimate in Live-aboards.’ Our
Galapagos Aggressor I & II: Apr. 8-15, 2010 (GA I); Apr. 15-22, 2010 (GA II) clients’ input is very important, that is
Maldives Aggressor: Jun 6-13, 2010; Aug. 1-8, 2010 why every post-trip survey asks, “Where
would you like to see an Aggressor?” Let
us know your comments by e-mailing
wecare@aggressor.com.
Want to Own an
Aggressor Franchise?
E-mail: wwm@aggressor.com
Single Travelers, Couples
are Always Welcome
Every month, Aggressor Fleet dedicates at least two
charters for singles, couples and small groups. No
dive buddy? No problem, the Captain will buddy
you up with another diver. If you are a single traveler,
remember that live-aboards are the safest, most
hassle-free way to dive. Your reservation agent will
assign you to a stateroom with a diver of the same
gender, or you may choose to have a private room
with our single-supplement package.
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Utila Aggressor: June 12-19, 2010; Sept. 18-25, 2010
Palau Aggressor II: Jun 27-July 4, 2010; Sept 26-Oct 3, 2010; Oct 24-31, 2010 Kona Aggressor II: July 10-17, 2010; Oct. 2-9, 2010 Cayman Aggressor IV: Sept. 11-18, 2010 Belize Aggressor III: Sept. 25-Oct 2, 2010 Turks & Caicos Aggressor II: Nov 27-Dec 4, 2010 * Money Saving Specials do not apply to Dive the World Club weeks.
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Bol
dN
Guests will explore the best of Baja aboard the
spacious130-foot, 20-passenger
yacht, Baja Aggressor.
ew
Fro
<< Mantas, Sharks,
and More
Isla Socorro
The Revillagigedo Archipelago is often
called Mexico’s Galapagos. It’s home to big
animals and big action! The region’s most
famous residents are giant Manta Rays, but
Baja Aggressor divers may also encounter Schooling Hammerheads, White Tip
Sharks, Silver Tip Sharks, Galapagos Sharks,
Bottlenose Dolphin and Tuna. Water
temperatures range between 70° and
74°F. All dives are drift dives conducted
from spacious skiffs. The
journey to Socorro is 22
hours. All charters are
eight nights. This itinerary
is from mid-January
through mid-June.
ntie
,
a
aj
B
rs!
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e
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i
Magdalena Bay
Gray Whales >>
Come face-to-face with Gray
Whales and their newly born calves.
All encounters are from our skiffs. The
gentle Gray Whales often swim up to
the skiffs! Have your camera ready to
capture the exciting breaching, spyhopping and fluking. Guests fly into La
Paz, Mexico, where they will board a
bus for a scenic two hour ride to the
yacht. Baja Aggressor Madalena Bay
charters are Saturday-to-Saturday.
Isla Guadalupe
<< Great White Sharks
The Baja Aggressor operates out of Ensenada from
mid-July to mid-November. The water of Isla Guadalupe is a mixture of cool and cold water, ranging
between 65° and 70°F, with thermoclines about 65°F.
We recommend a 5-7mm wet suit with hood, booties
and gloves year round. The diving in Isla Guadalupe
is performed solely in large, roomy Great White Shark
cages. Three cages accommodate 3-4 divers each, with
dives at a depth of 5-20 feet. All diving is performed
off the mothership, and all breathing hoses are
connected directly from the yacht. Dive tanks are not
required during these shark dives.
We now offer
three thrilling
itineraries departing
from Baja, Mexico!
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Utila,
a Caribbean Bouquet
Util a Iti n er a ry · Sat u rday- to -Sat u rday Excu rs i o ns
Day 1 Arrival
and Boarding
Guests arriving on the Saturday afternoon charter
flight from San Pedro Sula
(SAP) are greeted at the
Utila Airport at 3:30 p.m.
and transferred to the yacht.
Saturday evening, after
a delicious dinner, the Captain gives a briefing,
which outlines safety procedures and the week’s
exciting schedule. Later, the crew hosts a welcomeaboard champagne party.
Days 5 & 6 The Best of Roatan
After diving Roatan’s Taviana, Dolphin Caves and
Aguila Wreck, the Aggressor heads west to Utila.
Day 7 Cannery Bank and Farewell Party
The final dives of the week are Friday morning at
Cannery Bank. After lunch on the Aggressor, it
is time to rinse and pack dive gear and download
photos. Later that evening, the crew hosts a 5:30
p.m. cocktail party. The crew will assist you with
dinner reservations.
Day 2 Diving Begins
After a home-cooked breakfast, the week starts
with fabulous diving near Blackish Point and Old
House. All dives are conveniently made from
the spacious swim platform of the mothership.
Most guests enjoy up to five dives each day, only
stopping for one of the many scrumptious meals
or between-dive snacks. Night dives are offered
every night.
Day 8 Checkout
At 8:00 a.m. Saturday, guests are transferred to
the Utila Airport for the charter flight to San Pedro
Sula, Honduras.
Days 3 & 4 Remote Sea Mounts
and Sheer Walls
The journey continues north with a stop at the
remote Coco’s Sea Mounts, where the ocean
floor rises from hundreds of feet to only 40
feet from the surface. These sea mounts are
far from Utila and Roatan; therefore, they are
rarely visited by day boat divers. This is an
excellent place to encounter pelagics likes Eagle
Rays, Turtles, Jacks, Reef Sharks, and if you are
lucky, a Whale Shark. After exploring Coco’s Sea
Mounts, Utila Aggressor divers sample Roatan’s
spectacular walls.
Caribbean Sea
in Full Bloom
Dolphin Caves
Aquila
an
Odyssey
at Valley of
Taviana
Ro
the Kings
Mary’s Place
Connie’s Dream
Duppy Waters
CJ’s Drop Off
Halliburton
la
Old House
ti
Hawksbill
Ragged Cay U
Jack Neil
Cannery Bank
Coco’s Sea
Mounts
Honduras
Guests fly into San Pedro Sula, Honduras then board a
charter flight for a scenic 30-minute flight to Utila.
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“Divequest: In
the beginning....”
It was January 1996 and I was bobbing up
and down in a small diving boat on the edge of
Belize’s Blue Hole preparing for my 100th dive.
My partner, Mark Beaman, and I had recently set
up our own diving holiday company, Divequest,
in the UK and we were out in Belize to check out
the diving. We had been told that we must wait
as the Belize Aggressor had priority over us for
the dive. I hadn’t a clue what the Belize Aggressor was and my thoughts were mainly divided
between the prospect of the dive to come and my
nine year old daughter who I had left at home in
England in the care of my parents.
Suddenly a beautiful liveaboard boat came in
to view. Mark and I felt like the hungry kids that
have their noses pressed against the window pane
of the restaurant while the lucky diners tuck in to
delicious meals!
Mark and I turned to each other and agreed
that the Belize Aggressor was exactly the type of
Shrimp Gumbo
In the Mood for
Something Different?
We suggest one of our many Unique Aggressor Itineraries. They add
a lot of excitement and variety to your vacation. Here are a few to choose from:
boat we wanted to sell and that we should have
a go at introducing British divers to the kind of
quality experience the Aggressor was offering.
Divequest has gone on to be one of the UK’s
leading long-haul diving tour operators and our
little company has grown and grown.
The little girl who I left behind in England,
and who tugged at my heart strings all those
years ago is now 24 years old and a very competent diver who has joined me at Divequest
and become my Assistant Manager. Mark and
I were delighted to have Rachel with us on the
Palau Aggressor II recently to make sure that she
experienced Aggressor Fleet quality!
—Hilary Lee, Divequest, England
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og
es
t
Join “Into The Drink”
film crew with Aaron Faulls,
August 14-21, 2011, Kona Aggressor II
•
“Family Weeks”: all Caribbean Destinations
•
“Celebrity Charters” with Stan Waterman
•
“Aggressor Art” with Rogest, April 16-23, 2011,
Turks & Caicos Aggressor II
•
Jim Church School of Digital Photography
workshops with Mike Mesgleski and Mike
Haber, most destinations
11-night charter October 17-28, 2010
Galapagos Aggressor II
•
Aqua Lung Demo Week
October 9-16, 2010 Turks & Caicos
•
GatesFest Belize May 29-June 6, 2010
•
Palau Velasco Reef May 2-16, 2010;
April 24-May 8, 2011
•
Rare chance to dive Provo & Grand Turk:
Jan. 22-29, 2011; April 9-16, 2011,
by Chef Marc Mistersaro,
Palau Aggressor II
• 2 lbs. Peeled and deveined shrimp (21-25)
• 1 1/2 gallons of chicken or shrimp stock
• 1 red pepper (large dice)
• 1 green pepper (large dice)
• 1 yellow pepper (large dice)
• 1 med. red onion (large dice)
• 2 stalks of celery (large dice)
• 4 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 4 lbs. Okra diced into 1/2 pieces and fried
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 4 tbsp Old Bay
• 3 tbsp dried thyme
• 4 tbsp Gumbo file
• 3/4 lbs. brown roux
• Tabasco to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
Melt 3/4 lb. of butter and add enough flour making a heavy
paste, brown over medium heat until a dark brown. Set aside.
Second, take your diced okra and dredge in flour, pan fry
until cooked and golden brown, place on a paper towel, and
set aside to the end.
In a large sauce pot, over medium heat, sweat the garlic,
onions, peppers and celery until tender. Add the cayenne,
dried thyme and Old Bay, continue to cook for another three to five minutes. Add
the stock and bring to a boil. Once at a boil carefully add your roux, whisking the
entire time, until the stock becomes thick. Continue to cook on low heat, the gumbo
should be at a simmer. Add the shrimp, simmer until cooked. Finally, add the fried
okra, gumbo file and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper and Tabasco to
taste. Serve with jasmine rice.
©R
Aggressor ART
Join Rogest
April 16 to 23- 2011
Turks & Caicos
Aggressor II
Have you ever wanted to learn to paint? Why not join Ron Steven, aka Rogest, onboard
the beautiful Turks & Caicos Aggressor II. Ron has perfected a dotalistic style of painting,
which was inspired by the Australian Aborigines. His workshop will be taught in bet ween
dives. Join an Aggressor Art week and in no time, you’ll create a mini masterpiece of your
under water experience while enjoying the best diving.
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Turks &
Caicos
Atlantic Ocean
NW Point
Provo
West Caicos
French Cay
W. Sand Spit
Grand
Turk
Salt Cay
Ambergis
©Mike Mesgleski.
Aggressor vacations explore NW Point, West Caicos,
French Cay and West Sand Spit. Special charters depart from
Grand Turk, diving Grand Turk, Salt Cay and Ambergis.
Sheer walls, excellent visibility, sharks and
massive Orange-Elephant Ear Sponges.
The elegant master suite exemplifies
the 18-passenger Turks & Caicos Aggressor II’s
fine accommodations.
Day 1 Champagne Reception
Saturday afternoon arrivals are met at the airport in
Providenciales and transferred to the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II. Guests may board at 2:00 p.m.
The chef serves a delicious dinner at 6:30 p.m.
Afterwards, the Captain gives a detailed safety
briefing, followed by a champagne reception.
Day 2 Northwest Point
At dawn Sunday, the yacht departs for the first
dive site. Dive briefing! Guests may enjoy up to
five dives each day. All dives are conveniently
made from the mothership. Excellent snorkeling is available for non-diving passengers. While
you are diving, the chef prepares delicious snacks
and scrumptious meals, served on schedule.
Night dives are offered throughout the week.
Days 3, 4, 5 and 6 Wall-to-Wall Thrills
Diving continues Monday through Thursday
at remote sites like The Anchor, Elephant
Ear Canyon, Rock-N-Roll and Rock Garden
Interlude. If you are on a special Grand TurkProvidenciales charter, you will also explore sites
near Grand Turk, South Caicos and Salt Cay.
“
This dive trip was as close to perfect as I have ever experienced.
The crew were all top rate, as was the food. After the dive briefing my wife
and I would usually go off exploring by ourselves, which is the way we like it.
There were numerous dives that we would not see any other divers from
the boat until we were back close to the boat. Also we never saw any divers
from any other boats the whole week, which is great.
— Keith M., Turks & Caicos Aggressor II guest
”
Day 7 Dockside Fun
After diving, the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II returns to port at approximately 1:00 p.m. Friday.
Guests may use this opportunity to shop or visit
the local conch farm. The Captain and crew host
an evening cocktail
party at 6:00 p.m. After the cocktail party,
you may choose from
one of the many fine
restaurants near the
marina for dinner.
Superb Night Dives
Day 8 Checkout
Checkout time is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. Guests
are transferred to the airport or a local hotel.
Read the last dive Turks & Caicos
dive reports at www.aggressor.com.
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On this extra-ordinary adventure
there is an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation
that differs from that of a dive charter.
Magical, Spiritual,
Exhilarating!
Piers van Der Walt
F
ebruary through mid-April, the Dominican
Republic’s Silver Bank is abuzz with Humpback
Whale activity. During Turks & Caicos Aggressor II
whale excursions, guests board custom-built skiffs
searching for whales. Once the whales are located,
guests slip into the water to snorkel face-to-face
with these graceful giants. Photographers will
delight in the endless, topside photo opportunities.
These are snorkeling only encounters, as scuba is
not permitted in the whale sanctuary.
Rare chance to Dive
Provo & Grand Turk
Jan. 22-29, 2011; April 9-16, 2011
Before departing for the Silver Bank, the Turks & Caicos
Aggressor II must travel from Provo to Grand Turk for two
charters each year. Guests may join this special journey,
which stops along the route to dive the best of the entire
Turks & Caicos Archipleago! (Opposite itinerary at the end
of whale season).
Atlantic Ocean
From the moment the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II slips from 3,000 feet of ocean, to the
shallower 60 feet of the Silver Bank, evidence of the whales surround her. These majestic
creatures effortlessly propel their massive thirty five foot bodies into the air as they breach
the water’s surface. Tails, repeatedly, slapped down onto the ocean to prove the strength
and virility of the males and the whereabouts of the females. Mothers nurse their calfs and
develop them for the long journey home, introducing them to us, the human race, along
the way.
For two months guests enjoy the awesome behavior that these wonderful souls are prepared to share with us. The incredible power of the surface activity to the tender bonding of
mother and calf which we, more often than not, get
the opportunity to experience while snorkeling just
a few feet away from.
Join us! It could be a life changing experience.
NW Point
Provo
West Caicos
French Cay
W. Sand Spit
14
Grand
Turk
Salt Cay
Ambergis
Reserve your Humpback Whale
adventure today at at www.aggressor.com
15
Jim Church Classic UW Photo Contest
2009 Winners are...
The 2010 contest is now open! E-mail your entry to marketing@aggressor.com.
Only underwater photos taken on Aggressor trips Jan. 1, 2010 -Dec. 31, 2010
are eligible. You may win a FREE Aggressor Fleet live-aboard vacation!
1st Place: Simon Ager
Kona Aggressor II (Dolphins)
Free Trip on Aggressor of Choice
2nd Place: Mike Johnson
Maldives Aggressor (Wall)
75% Off Aggressor of Choice
3rd Place: Dave Skinner
(Whale)
(Caribbean)
Dave Skinner, 3rd Place
1st Place: James Moser
Belize Aggressor III (File Fish)
Zuma B
HM - Todd Bretl; Galapagos
Aggressor II (Eagle Ray)
(Caribbean)
2nd Place: Jim Morus
Belize Aggressor III (Squid Squad)
HM - Pierrette Wagner
Utila Aggressor (Fairy Basslet)
25% Off Aggressor of
Choice (Pacific)
Todd Bretl, Honorable Mention
Mike Johnson, 2nd Place
Beginner
James Moser, 1st Place Beginner
See more winning photos at www.aggressor.com
3rd Place: Joe Cardo
Utila Aggressor (Blenny) 1st Place Beginner: Holly Franz
Taken aboard Galapagos Aggressor I
50% Off Aggressor of Choice (Pacific)
Winning photo receives
Aggressor Trip of Choice
Honorable Mention: Art Richmond
Belize Aggressor III (Seahorse)
2nd Place Beginner: Milton Almeida
25% Off Aggressor of ChoiceTaken aboard Kona Aggressor II
50% Off Any Aggressor Trip
Jim Morus, 2nd Place Beginner
Video Contest Winners:
3rd Place Beginner: Forest Rothchild
View the Videos at
www.aggressor.com
Taken aboard Galapagos Aggressor I
1st Place: Josh Jensen
Taken:
AggressorTrip
with a Panasonic HVX200 & Gates Housing
25%Galapagos
Off Any Aggressor
2nd Place: Dan Hornbarger
Taken: Okeanos Aggressor with a Sony 21U & Light & Motion Housing
3rd Place: Peter Kunzmann
Taken: Kona Aggressor II
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Simon Ager, 1st Place
HM: Bruce & Wendy Carey
Taken: Turks & Caicos Aggressor II with a Sony 520V and Bluefin Pro
17 800-348-2628 · info@aggressor.com · www.aggressor.com
13
Aqua Lung Cayman
Aggressor Demo Week
by Don Rockwell & Eric Thorstenson
Eric and I flew from Los Angeles to Grand Cayman with the chance
2010 Photo Contest is Bigger, with
more Great Prizes from Aquatica and Aqua Lung
1st: Aggressor Trip
of Choice, $500
Aquatica Gift
Certificate, Zuma
BCD, Flight Regulator,
New Aqua Lung fins,
Aqua Lung
Departure Bag.
2nd: 75% off Aggressor of Choice, $250
Aquatica Gift Certificate, Flight Regulator.
3rd: 50% off Aggressor of Choice, $100
Aquatica Gift Certificate, Zuma BCD.
Honorable mention:
25% off Aggressor of
Choice, New Aqua
Lung fins, Aqua Lung
Departure Bag.
to test our new travel set – small and light enough to take all our dive
gear in a carry-on bag. To prove the ultimate theory, we also packed all
our clothing, personal items and laptops in a back pack carry-on. We had enough gear and clothing for a week
long live aboard dive trip on the Cayman Aggressor lV without having to check any baggage. Now that makes
a statement – and allows divers to arrive at their destination knowing they have all there vital equipment when
they land.
While that worked perfect, in the interest of full disclosure we have come clean that we did have to check on
4 large dive bags, 50 lbs each, packed with samples of Aqua Lung’s newest gear and even some new products
that won’t be on the market for 3 to 6 months.
After being personally greeted at the airport, we were quickly on board the Cayman Aggressor lV meeting
the friendly group of guests we would spend the next week with. We were given the opportunity to give them
a quick rundown of some of the new toys we brought and let them know that while they were on vacation we
were there to work and see that they would have every opportunity to try new Aqua Lung, Apeks and Suunto
products if they so desired.
It didn’t take long after we opened the gear bags before the first dive to see the interest everyone had in
being able to try new equipment in perfect Cayman diving conditions. Dive computers, regulators, BC jackets,
masks, fins – they were all there in multiple sizes and colors for all to try. While Eric and I were setting up the
gear to personal preferences, the helpful Cayman Aggressor crew got everyone suited up and ready to jump in.
By the end of the week we had it down to a science and everyone seemed to have found exactly the next new
piece of dive equipment they would add to their Christmas list.
Overall it was a big success – everyone had a great time on the trip with excellent food, a relaxing atmosphere
and of course great diving. The fact that everyone had the opportunity to try new dive gear only added to their
enjoyment and provided valuable feedback for us by observing and listening to everyone try our products.
Several adjustments to soon to be released products as well as great ideas for new products were gained during
the week.
We can’t wait for the next Aggressor
trip in Turks and Caicos this October!
Aqua Lung Demo Week
October 9-16, 2010
Cayman Aggressor IV Nov. 14-21, 2009
18
19
©Mike Mesgleski
Belize Aggressor guests descend into the mystical Blue Hole,
a 1,000-foot wide, 600-foot deep, collapsed freshwater cave system.
B lu e H ole
Belize Aggr esso r I I I I ti ner a ry · Sat u rday-to -Sat u rday E xcu rsions
Day 1 Arrival
Saturday afternoon arrivals
are met at the Belize City airport (BZE) and transferred to
the Belize Aggressor III for
the 2:00 p.m. boarding. The
Belize Aggressor III docks
at the Radisson Fort George
Hotel Dock. At 6:00 p.m.,
the yacht departs for its first
anchorage while the chef serves a delicious dinner.
Afterwards, the Captain gives a detailed safety briefing followed by a welcome party.
Day 2 Diving Begins
Beginning Sunday morning, guests may enjoy up
to five dives each day. All dives are conveniently
made from the mothership. Excellent snorkeling
is available for non-diving passengers. While you
are diving, the chef prepares delicious snacks and
scrumptious meals, served on schedule. Night dives
are offered every night.
Day 7 Cave Tubing,
Mayan Tours and More
Diving ends Friday morning. At approximately
1:00 p.m., the yacht
returns to Belize City.
Exciting tours such as
Cave Tubing, the Belize
Zoo or Mayan Ruin explorations can be arranged
by our tour department, Liveaboard Vacations.
Guests may also relax at the Radisson’s pool and bar
area complementary. At 6:00 p.m., the Captain and
crew will host a cocktail party. The crew will
assist guests with dinner arrangements at
a local Belize City restaurant.
BELIZE
Far from the reach of tiny day boats, Aggressor divers
explore the pristine walls of Turneffe and Lighthouse Reef.
Day 8 Checkout
Checkout is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. Guests are transferred
to the Belize City airport (BZE) or a local hotel.
Monday through Thursday
Diving continues along pristine walls like The
Elbow, Quebrada, Long Caye Ridge, Painted Wall,
Elk Horn Forest, The Blue Hole and Cathedral.
Half Moon Cay
Mid-week, the crew
shuttles guests to Half
Moon Cay for a walk on
the beach and a tour of
the bird sanctuary. Here
you can observe Redfooted Booby and Frigate Birds, and a lighthouse
built in 1848.
20
Belize City
Caribbean Sea
Turneffe
West Pt.
Blue
Hole
Aggressor Splits
Sayonara
Grand
Bouge
Black
Beauty
Elbow
Painted Wall
Cathedral
Long Cay Wall
Half Moon
Quebrada
Cay Wall
Dos Cocos
Lighthouse
Reef
21
The Galapagos are a UNESCO natural world heritage site.
Darwin
Wolf
Cabo Marshall
Bartolome
Cousins
North Seymour
Santiago
Isabella
Baltra
Plazas
Squadrons of Mobula Rays. Families of Seahorses.
Schools of Hammerheads. The cool Humbolt
Current creates a marine paradise that allows
Pt. Ayora
San Cristobal
countless species to flourish in prolific numbers.
G a l a pagos I ti n er a ry · Thu rsday-to -Thu rsday
An overnight hotel stay in Guayaquil is recommended due to airline schedules. The Galapagos Aggressors I & II are sisterships with
identical layouts and superb personal amenities.
considered one of the best places in the world
to swim face-to-face with a Whale Shark.
These islands are also home to schools of
Scalloped Hammerhead Sharks,
Galapagos Sharks
and Silky Sharks.
Day 1 Entering a New World
Upon arrival Thursday morning in San Cristobal,
Aggressor guests are met at the San Cristobal
airport and transferred to the yacht, which is
docked only minutes from the airport.
Day 6 Diving the
Central Islands
The journey back
from Wolf and
Darwin begins with dives at Cousin Rocks where
you will encounter Red-Lipped Batfish, Golden
Cow Rays, Mobula Rays, Seahorses, Eagle Rays,
Trevally, Scorpion fish, and a variety of shark species. In the afternoon, you will make a land visit to
Bartolome where you will snorkel with Galapagos
penguins.
Checkout Dive before Heading North
The Captain welcomes you aboard and then
gives a detailed safety briefing. One dive
is offered, allowing guests to get acclimated
to the local conditions, which include water
temperatures
that
range
from
60º-86ºF.
©Rogest
Day 2 North Seymour, A Taste of What is to Come
After a hearty breakfast, divers board the
tenders at North Seymour. Sea Lions, schools of
Razor Surgeonfish, Diamond Stingrays, thousands
of Garden Eels and Hammerhead Sharks greet
divers at this first site, giving a taste of the
abundant life Galapagos offers.
Day 7 Last Dive
After a land tour at Plazas islands, you will dive
at Gordon Rocks with Hammerhead Sharks,
Manta Rays, White Tipped Sharks, Galapagos
Sharks, Eagle and Golden Rays, Green Turtles and
Sea Lions.
Walk with Blue-Footed Boobies and Iguanas
Up to four guided land tours are offered throughout
the week. During the tours, guests will
witness the mating dances of Blue-Footed Booby
birds, photograph Frigate
birds and see one of
the islands’ most famous
reptiles, marine iguanas.
You are accompanied at
all times by trained, multilingual naturalist guides
who will explain and
interpret the unusual sights
you witness.
Touring at Puerto Ayora
At Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz Island, a visit to the
Tortoise Breeding Center Fausto LLerena is included in the charter. Shopping is available in
Puerto Ayora. The Captain hosts a cocktail party
onboard at 6:00 p.m. Guests are shuttled ashore
for dinner at a local restaurant. The Galapagos
Aggressors depart for San Cristobal at 11:00 p.m.
G alapagos
“As a non-water person I had my doubts about this type of a vacation, but my husband was very
persuasive. Everything was just as he had said. The ship was always clean and well-cared for. The
members of the crew (especially Walter) were fabulous - friendly, knowledgeable, professional and very,
understanding and respectful of this old lady’s physical limitations and fears. There were some travel glitches
regarding the next leg of our trip to Peru (natural disaster related) but the Aggressor folks took care of
everything. I don’t know where, or when, but I will definitely do another live-aboard vacation. This was a
fabulous experience and as far as I’m concerned, the Aggressor people are THE BEST!” —Suzanne G.
Galapagos Seasons
December - May: Larger Hammerhead schools,
Manta Rays and Eagle Rays. The water is warmer,
better visibility, 70-86F, 21-30C.
June - November: Whale shark sightings are greater.
The water is cooler, 60-75F, 16-24C.
Day 8 Checkout
After a full breakfast, guests check out at 8:30
a.m. Thursday and are transferred to the local
airport for the flight to mainland Ecuador. If
extending your stay, we recommend the Hampton
Inn, downtown Guayaquil. It includes airport
transfers and breakfast.
Days 3,4 and 5 Wolf Island and Darwin’s Arch
Wolf and Darwin Islands in the northernmost region of the Galapagos archipelago, are
The Enchanted Land of Plenty
22
23
As you peer over the ledge of Grand Cayman’s North Wall,
you will feel the same anticipation and joy as if you’re atop the summit of
a roller coaster ride’s first big plunge! Every inch of these sheer walls are
decorated with colorful vase sponges and lush, giant gorgonians.
A Garden
Cayman’s Famed Walls
C aym a n Iti n er a ry · Sat u rday-to -Sat u rday
Nancy’s Cup of Tea
3 Fathom Wall
Little
Randy’s Gazebo
Lea Lea’s Lookout
Cayman
Cayman Brac
Caribbean Sea
Bonnie’s
Arch
Spanish
Anchor
Oro Verde
Balboa
Russian Destroyer
Tarpon Alley
Stingray City
Babylon
Fish Tank
Grand Cayman
George Town
Eagle Ray Rock
Pedro’s Pt.
Ironshore
Garden
Bat Caves
Day 1 Arrival and Boarding
Guests may board the yacht after 2:00 p.m. Saturday.
Afternoon arrivals are met at the airport and transferred to the Cayman Aggressor IV. At 6:00 p.m.,
dinner is served, followed by the Captain’s briefing
and welcome party.
of Earthly Delights
24
Day 2 Time to
Get Wet!
Beginning
Sunday
morning, guests may
enjoy up to five dives
each day. All dives are
conveniently
made
from the mothership.
Excellent snorkeling
is available for nondiving passengers. While you are diving, the chef
prepares delicious snacks and scrumptious meals,
served on schedule. Night diving is offered.
Days 3, 4 and 5 The North Wall
Diving continues at Grand Cayman’s north, south
and/or east end walls before the Aggressor makes an
overnight, 90-mile journey to Little Cayman, weather permitting. Here, guests dive famous Bloody
Bay Wall, a glorious coral Eden starting at only 16
feet! After several days at Little Cayman, the yacht
cruises to Cayman Brac to explore the Capt. Keith
Tibbetts, a 300-foot Russian destroyer.
Day 6 Stingray City
The week culminates with a stop at world-famous
Stingray City.
Day 7 Shopping
in George Town
After diving, the
yacht returns to
George Town at
approximately 1:00 p.m. Friday. Guests may shop
or sightsee in town. The Captain and crew host an
evening cocktail party at 6:00 p.m. followed
by dinner in town.
Day 8 Checkout
Checkout is 8:00 a.m. Saturday. Guests are transferred to the airport, or local hotel.
Read the latest Cayman dive reports on
the new “Captain’s Log” at www.aggressor.com.
You may also make your reservations online.
Eat, Sleep, Dive and
Shoot Video!
G iving B ack :
Newborn Hearing Screening
Program KHMH Hospital, Belize City
Dr. John Matinetti is a frequent student of the Jim Church School of
Underwater Photography workshops aboard Aggressor Fleet yachts.
Test Dive
Gates Housings
New Products!
The John & Helen Martinetti Pediatric Hearing Foundation is sponsoring
a Newborn Hearing Screening Program in the KHMH Hospital in Belize City,
CA. Belize does not have an infant hearing screening program.
The goal of this program will be to identify hearing loss in the newborn
population which has been a Federal Mandate for all infants in the U.S. for
over 10 years.
The equipment will be donated by The John and Helen Martinetti Pediatric Hearing Foundation. Dr.
Martinetti, Audiologist will provide the technical training for doctors, nurses, and support staff .
Identification of hearing loss alone will not be enough, therefore , Dr. Martinetti with the assistance of
Dr. Eck and an otolaryngologist want to provide the necessary treatment for the infants that may have hearing loss and this will necessitate the need for audiological services. Dr. Martinetti is planning on returning
to Belize every four months to perform the follow-up testing and hearing aid evaluations / dispensing of
hearing aids for the infants that are in need of this service.
Dr. Martinetti is selling his underwater photos, which were all taken on the Aggressor charters. All profits go
toward the foundation and Belize program. See his photos and learn more at www.johnmartinetti.com.
O ceans
for
Youth Foundation
Share your
Passion with the
Next Generation
Oceans for Youth Foundation is funded
through grants, donations and fund-raising
events. The foundation does not have an
organizational overhead; therefore, all accomplishments have been completed by
board members, volunteers, directors and
small committees. Free educational materials and instruction guides are produced and
distributed to teachers and volunteers world
wide. We also continue to work on a new
high-definition
video that supports
volunteer
efforts
and marine science
teachers at high
school levels.
800-348-2628 · info@aggressor.com · www.aggressor.com 26
How Can I Help?
You can help by becoming a volunteer.
E-mail info@oceansforyouth.org for a free
DVD that you may use for presentations. The
presenter’s guide is available online at
www.oceansforyouth.org. Other volunteers
are needed to provide resources for the production of additional educational materials
and/or assistance in fund raising.
Tax-deductible
donations may be
made online at
www.oceansforyouth.org
“GatesFest” Belize
May 29-June 6 2010
No Additional Charge
Hi everyone, John Ellerbrock here, inviting you
aboard Belize Aggressor III for GatesFest this coming
May. Karen and I will be there showcasing the latest in
Gates products for underwater video including housings,
lighting, optics and accessories. You’ll have opportunity
to try, test, play with, evaluate, and critique all the gear on hand. We’ll answer your
questions, proffer advice, and show you why professionals never take a chance…they
take a Gates.
But there is a lot more to GatesFest than availing yourself of the latest in ‘bulletproof’
underwater video gear. It’s about enjoyable education in a classroom a mere giant-stride
from the Belize Aggressor. We’ll gather around the HDTV to discuss the practical aspects
of underwater video ranging from shooting technique and animal behavior to editing
and storylines. Some of the more esoteric topics like video formats, camera technology,
media, optics and housing design are all open game, too (and incidentally my favorites).
It will be an opportunity to improve your underwater video in an unstructured but highly
instructive manner.
This will be our first time to Belize diving the famous sites
around Turneffe Islands, Lighthouse Reef, and weather
permitting the legendary Blue Hole. There will be no shortage
of striking scenes and remarkable critters on which to practice
our underwater video. Use your own gear or the newest Gates
equipment. And what better way to do so than aboard the
Belize Aggressor III?
Karen & John Ellerbrock
See you in Belize,
John Ellerbrock
27
Operations
Corner
U nd er Constr uc ti o n
Occasionally, when inquiring about a charter, the travel agent may say, “That is a
Down Week.” This means that the yacht is undergoing routine maintenance.
Aggressor strives to maintain the highest quality and safest dive yachts in the world.
Here are construction, or maintenance, updates on just a few of the fleet’s yachts.
Galapagos Aggressor I
February 2010 dry dock.
New 18-passenger
Utila Aggressor II
yacht under
construction
• Complete new paint job
• New hot tub for 6 guests
• New air conditioners for Master Cabins
• New mattresses, carpeting and curtains, for all cabins
• New towels, bed sheets and pillows
• New design for dining area and bar, more space,
bigger tables
• Complete overhaul of 2 main engines and 1 generator
• Purchase of 1 new Caterpillar generator
• Complete overhaul of propeller system, steering,
anchor equipment and 1 new anchor
• Complete overhaul of navigation, communication
life saving and fire fighting equipment
An all-new 18-passenger Utila yacht
is currently under construction.
The 14-passenger Utila is currently
offering charters diving Utila, Roatan
and offshore seamounts.
Palau Aggressor II Dry dock,
November 2009
• New carpeting and furnishings
throughout
• Staterooms: new mattresses, TV/DVD players
• Salon all new furniture and large 54” flat screen TV
• Exterior painted
• Rebuild generators, compressors, Nitrox system
Okeanos Aggressor
Gets Renovated
New Utila yacht under construction
by Capt. Earl Meador,
Operations Manager
WayneWorks Marine, LLC
team often has a
divemaster leap
into the water at an
unexpected time
while the yacht is
moving slowly.
When this is practiced, the guests are alerted
ahead of time that it is only a drill. But we
have the guests yell out, “MAN OVERBOARD,” calling the unsuspecting crew
to action. This is great fun for the guest to
watch but serious training for the entire crew.
Every crew member participates in the drills
including hands on use of the fire hoses and
other emergency equipment. As a follow up,
every crew member also receives updated
First Aid, CPR, defibrillator and O2 training.
Featured in the photos are the Okeanos and
Galapagos Aggressor’s staff practicing their
very realistic fire and rescue drills.
Did you know that every Aggressor yacht
is required to pass a very detailed inspection/
training week given by a member of the
management team? Each year, a member of
the management team boards the yacht for
a very special charter. During this charter,
the team uses a detailed 21-page checklist
of items to be reviewed. The items include
safety, appearance of yacht, cleanliness, dive
procedures, galley, meals, crew service, dive
briefings, staff reviews and many more items.
The team members take the time
to give the white
glove treatment
to the small often
overlooked details
of the guest areas.
Team members often step into the showers
and look around or lay on the bunks just to be
sure they check every detail from our guests’
perspective.
In addition, during the visit the crew is
required to demonstrate their skills in
dealing with shipboard fires, evacuations,
medical emergencies and at rescuing a person
that falls overboard. To make this real, the
Capt. Earl Meador
“Let’s Hear It for the Boys”
February 2010
When I began diving in the late
1970’s, there were very few boats
available anywhere. Then along
came Aggressor Fleet.
I began diving with the Fleet in
Belize in the mid-eighties. Liveaboard diving then was in its infancy, serviceable but basic. I
remember tiny cabins and shared washrooms but the Caribbean locations were exceptional - Cayman, Honduras, Belize.
Now the fleet has many comfortable vessels that are
really top-notch. Recently I have been to the Maldives on an
elegant and beautifully designed ship, the newest addition
to the fleet.
I feel a live-aboard is made more enjoyable only when the
28
crew is knowledgeable and generous with
their time and the staff in the office is helpful and efficient in support.
BUT….a boat is only as good as its owners and the Aggressor Fleet have the best
in the business. “The Waynes”, as they are
fondly referred to, exemplify excellence.
Thank you Aggressor Fleet for over twenty years of diving.
I will continue to dive in your many exotic locations as long as
you will have me.....and as long as I can get in and out of the
water! “Let’s hear it for the boys!”
James Mathias, www.BelowTheBlueHorizon.com
Toronto, Canada
Practice
Makes Perfect
Create Your Own Masterpieces with
Mike Mesgleski and Mike Haber
It takes skill to make a beautiful underwater photograph, and skill can only come from practice. At the
Jim Church School of UW Photography, we’ve found
that among the best places for our students to practice
their UW photo skills are the Caribbean destinations of
the Aggressor Fleet.
The four locations of Belize, Cayman, Turks & Caicos and Utila offer great diving. But more important,
they also offer the best environment for learning UW
Photography and Video. There is rarely any current
to deal with, so it is easy to hold position to set up a
wide-angle shot or carefully change position for a better angle on a spectacular close-up subject. The water
is clear and warm, giving you an optimum environment
to shoot in. And the subjects are plentiful so you won’t
run out of things to photograph.
Our students have told us time and again that they
like being able to take their time underwater to set up
a shot. We usually make two dives on a site, so if there
was something they did not quite get the first time or
if they wanted to shoot the site with a different lens,
they can. We’re able to do that much more easily at the
Photo by student Steven Jacobs
Photo by student Jay Zirbel
Caribbean locations since 100% of the dives are done
directly from the mother ship. That means the dive site
is always right under the Aggressor.
Diving directly from the Aggressor also makes it possible for Mike & I to provide more help underwater.
We can scout out a wide-angle scene or find a good
close-up subject and then bring our students right
back to that spot so they can shoot it.
We usually hold our formal presentations between
the first and second dives in the morning. Afternoons
and evenings give us the chance to work with individuals one-on-one. During those sessions, we will explain
a camera setting, review a student’s images from that
day, go over a technique we covered in one of our
presentations, or plan out a session of in-water help on
the next dive.
If your passion is UW Video, we can help. Since we
have the time to work one-on-one with each student,
we can devote plenty of time to video shooters during
the week. No matter if it is camera technique, white balance issues, editing questions or whatever, we will work
with you to master your video.
Our Expeditions, on the other hand, give the student the opportunity to use the skills they practiced
in the Caribbean locations. We are still there to help
and teach, but destinations like Galapagos and Palau
are more suited to the student who has been through
a class or two with us in the Caribbean.
Whatever your experience level, a Jim Church
School week aboard the Aggressor will be a great way
to develop your Underwater Photography or Videography skills. We hope you join us for a fun-filled and
educational week of great diving.
2010 - 2012 Jim Church School of Digital Underwater Photography Courses
Art made simple by the Jim Church School of UW Photography
All course instruction applies to both Beginner and Advanced photographers.
Belize Aggressor III
July 10-17, 2010; July 9-16, 2011
July 7-14, 2012
Cayman Aggressor IV
May 15-22, 2010; May 14-21, 2011
May 5-12, 2012
Baja Aggressor-Socorro
October 2-9, 2010
Photo by student Stew Bakst
30
Galapagos Aggressors
Aug. 19-26, 2010; Aug. 11-18, 2011
Aug. 2-9, 2012
Okeanos Aggressor
Mar. 12-22, 2011
Palau Aggressor II
March 25-Apr. 8, 2012 Valasco Reef
June 5-12, 2010; June 11-18, 2011
June 9-16, 2012
Utila Aggressor
Oct. 8-15, 2011
Oct. 13-20, 2012
New “Combo”
Courses Video
plus Photo!
Utila Aggressor
May 1-8, 2010
June 4-11, 2011
“
Dear Amanda,
Bill and I are home in Vernon, British Columbia, Canada. We both wanted to thank you , Martin and the entire crew for
our week on the Palau Aggressor II. I have had holidays in many parts of the world and I can honestly say that I have
never had a better holiday than the one I spent with your crew. The diving, the staff, the atmosphere and the quality of
Palau:Big Thrills on
a Beautiful Backdrop
service were second to none. Congratulations to all of you!
”
Sincerely, April S., M.D.
Tightly woven green Lettuce Leaf Coral at Ulong Channel provides the backdrop as
Reef Sharks swiftly cruise by you. Crimson Gorgonians adorn the walls of Big Drop
that are patrolled by huge mantas and clouds of orange Anthias. Palau offers visitors a
rare mixture of big attractions and colorful soft corals.
Pa l au Iti n er a ry · Su n day-to -Su n day E xcu rs io ns
Palau Aggressor II
Standard Seven-day
Itinerary and Sites
VELASCO
REEF
NGEREAL
REEF
NGKESOL
REEF
Expanded Twelve-day
Velasco Itinerary and Sites
Manta Station
BA
BE
LD
O
A
B
IS
.
Palau
Pacific Ocean
Siaes Tunnel
Ulong Channel
Blue Holes
Chandelier Caves
Iro Maru Wreck
Blue Corner
Jellyfish Lake
Big Drop-off
PELELIU IS.
per person, double occupancy and includes
cabin tax, dive tax and additional fuel charge).
German Channel
Ngedebus
New Velasco Reef Itinerary
The Palau Aggressor II is
offering a two-week northern
itinerary to the Velasco reef
area May 2-16, 2010, for $5,795
double stateroom and $5,995
deluxe stateroom and April 24May 8, 2011 $5,895/$6,095.
This six hour cruise up the
west side of Palau brings
spectacular views. The itinerary
includes 5 ½ days of diving
to the north and the second
week diving the southern dive
sites that have made Palau a
world-class destination. (Price is
Read the latest Dive Reports
from Blue Corner and make your
reservations at www.aggressor.com
32
Day 1 Touch down
in Micronesia
At 5:00 p.m. Sunday, the
crew will pick up those
staying at a local hotel
and transfer them to the
yacht.
Guests arriving on the Sunday
evening
flight
are
greeted at the airport
and transferred to the
Palau Aggressor II.
Days 2 & 3 Diving
through History
Breakfast in the Rock Islands! Diving begins at
thrilling sites like German Channel, where you may
encounter mantas with 10-foot wide wingspans and
giant Tridacna Clams. You will also step back in
time as you examine the beautiful WWII shipwreck,
Iro Maru.
Peleliu
The Palau Aggressor
II journeys south to
Peleliu, the site of one
of the fiercest battles in the Pacific during WWII,
“Bloody Nose Ridge.” A knowledgeable, local guide
offers an informative island tour for a small fee.
Day 4, 5 and 6 Enjoy the Show
Diving continues at Ulong Channel, Blue Holes and
Micronesia’s most famous shark dive, Blue Corner!
Countless species of fish and sharks rise up from the
deep, swimming over the ledge, passing within feet
of the Aggressor divers.
Day 7 Jellies and Gems
Saturday begins with
snorkeling at Jellyfish
Lake.
Thousands of
stingless Mastigias Jellyfish follow the sun,
migrating from one
side of the lake to the
other. Palauans call
the lake “Ongeim’l
Tketau.”
For
the
grand finale, everyone explores the glistening
chambers of Chandelier Caves. It is a shallow
dive, with the large opening always in sight. The
walls sparkle like precious jewels and stalactites
adorn the ceiling as you surface into each of the
caverns three domes. Take time to see the Mandarin Fish, who live in the shallows just outside the
cave offering the perfect ending to a great week.
Exploring Palau
Saturday afternoon, the
Palau Aggressor II returns
to port to provision and
fuel for the following week.
After lunch, you may
shop, sightsee, and visit the museum. The
Captain and crew host an evening cocktail
party. The crew will arrange transportation
to a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 8 Checkout
Checkout time is 8:00 a.m. Sunday. The
crew will transfer you to a local hotel or the
Palau airport.
A Memorable Dive
with “Molly”
Having made over 2,000 dives, I often look
back over the years and remember the special
animal encounters. One of those took place
in 1991 at Little Cayman aboard the Cayman
Aggressor.
While gearing up for the first night dive of
the trip, the crew announced that a manta ray had made an appearance the previous week. I had never seen a manta before and figured
the chances of a repeat visit were unlikely, so I continued to assemble
my 1:5 framer opting for some macro shots.
Ten minutes after my descent to 30 ft. I was confronted by a
manta, later to be named Molly, with a wingspan of about 10ft. As she made roll after roll in
front of me, I fondly remembered my 15mm. lens lying topside on the camera
table. Using what I had that night, I was rewarded with an image of a remora
attached above Molly’s eye. That night I felt a true symbiotic relationship with
this beautiful creature. My dive light attracted plankton upon which she fed,
and in return she gave me an award-winning performance. On the three following nights Molly returned and so did I carrying my 15mm. lens ready to capture
more images. –Barbara Jones
Truly One of
SCUBA’s Early Pioneers
“The Aggressor Fleet has been a most wonderful and important part of my life
since its first live-aboard dive boat, dedicated to divers, came off the ways. That
was the Cayman Aggressor, the seed from which the great fleet evolved. The year
was 1984. That seminal boat introduced to the diving world a level of luxury, space,
comfort and safe diving we had never experienced before. It expanded my diving adventures to locations around
the world’s oceans, from the Maldives to Tahiti, the islands in the Caribbean, the Pacific from Cocos Island and the
Galapagos westward to Indonesia.
I am grown long-of-tooth. At the age of 87, I appreciate comfort and care. I travel with the Aggressor Fleet to
several locations each year and savor the in-cabin luxury of private shower and head with plenty of hot water right
by the spacious dive platforms when you emerge from your dive. The cuisine is superior. Sometimes I dream of
the food on the Aggressors and wake up sobbing. The trained crews are thorough professionals and attend to the
special needs of each individual guest. The dive guides are photographer friendly. They know the places on each
reef for the best takes of the macro critters and animal behavior. With their help -- and I always work with the guides
--I still find new and exciting grist for my video productions on locations I have visited time and again.
I could go on shamelessly with accounts of Aggressor experiences, and encomiums for their style and service to
the diving world. Just last year, on my return to Hawaii and the Kona Aggressor II, I recorded a night dive with thirtyfive great Pacific manta rays feeding in the ring of divers’ lights. It was an epiphany, one
of the finest encounters I have had in my half-century of diving. I edited it with a Straus
waltz to match the rhythm of the magnificient animals and added the finished video to
the mini film festival I provide during each week with Aggressor guests.
Come diving with me one of these years while I am still kicking my fins. You will understand why it has been a pleasure for me to dive with the Aggressor Fleet all these
years”. —Stan Waterman
2010 Stan Waterman Charters
Palau Aggressor II, June 13-20, 2010
Cayman Aggressor VI, August 28-September 4, 2010
Utila Aggressor II, October 16-23, 2010
Kiss those baggage fees goodbye...
Less than 4.4 lbs. (2kg)
The Zuma makes traveling with Aggressor Fleet easy with its lightweight, roll-up
design. This ultra light, weight-integrated, back inflation buoyancy compensator
has everything you need for your next adventure.
For more information, contact your local retailer or visit us at aqualung.com.
Chicken Breast with Red Wine
Shitake Mushroom Sauce
by Chef Douglas Connor,
Kona Aggressor II
Professional Chef Douglas Connor knows that a fine
cuisine is a key element to a successful live aboard
dive adventure. Born and raised in New York, Doug
has been immersed in the culinary arts and is now
sharing his knowledge of fine dining with the guests
of the Kona Aggressor II. Before beginning his adventure in the dive industry, Doug was a top Pastry Chef
for several years in Maui and still spends his free
time surfing and exploring his island home.
For Doug’s Chicken Breast dinner, he starts by
marinating the chicken breast in red wine vinegar,
olive oil, lemon-lime juice, black pepper and garlic. For the Red Wine Mushroom
Sauce, reduce the red wine and add shallots, garlic, and chicken stock. Finally,
thicken with Arrow Root and add mushrooms for a tasty chicken dish.
Aqua Lung is a proud partner of Aggressor Fleet
26
34
Live-Aboard Vacations Travel Department
Micronesia
So Much More
to Explore!
Liveaboard Vacations offers competitive rates
and personalized service for airline travel, hotels,
tours and rental cars. Contact our knowledgeable
staff at info@liveaboardvacations.com.
Machu Picchu (minimum of 5-7 days required)
Visiting the Galapagos Aggressor, why not take a detour and visit Machu Picchu? We customize all extensions to your liking. Take this itinerary for example: (One pre-excursion night is usually
required in Lima and/or Cuzco before tour, and one post excursion night).
Sacred Valley & Machu Picchu, 3 days/2 nights, departs daily. The beautiful Urubamba River
Valley, also known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, is the perfect stopover enroute to Machu
Picchu. Overnight in a country inn, and visit Pisac Market and the Incan fortress of Ollantaytambo.
The next day continue by train to Machu Picchu where you will spend 2 days exploring the
legendary “Lost City of the Incas”, before returning to Cuzco.
Package Includes: 1 night Sacred Valley, 1 night Machu Picchu area hotel, Roundtrip ground
transfers including Vistadome train; daily breakfast; other meals and tours per itinerary.
Mainland Belize
After your Belize Aggressor III vacation, explore the ancient ruins of Xunantunich, or relax at
Chaa Creek Adventure Centre, Rainforest Reserve and Spa. Here’s just a taste of one itinerary:
Cayo is nature’s call of the wild, offering visitors a window to the world of jagged mountain
peaks, thick-forested jungle and immense temples shrouded in mystery. Extending south to
Mountain Pine Ridge into the Chiquibul wilderness and Maya Mountains, and west to the border
with Guatemala, the Cayo District spreads across 2,000 square miles of verdant landscape. Thousands of years ago, Maya settled the Belize River Valley, building cities and ceremonial centers.
Maya sites include Caracol, Xunantunich, Pacbitun, El Pilar, Cahal Pech, and many other smaller
sites, some of which excavation has only started or discovery has only been recorded in the last
couple of years. Sensational topography and endless opportunities for adventure; such as canoeing, river rafting, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking, make the region a cure
for wanderlust.
Costa Rica Surrounded by Nature
“Pura vida,” which means pure life is the perfect
translation of Costa Rica spirit. If you’re planning an
astonishing trip to Coco Island on the Okeanos
Aggressor, keep in mind that many other adventures
await you by spending a few more days in this amazing
country. Long before most governments started talking
about environment preservation, Costa Rica reserved
18% of its territory for national parks. With this visionary attitude, the government intuitively had created one
of the most exciting eco destinations of the world. So,
pick your favorite adventure: hiking around the crater of
active volcanoes such as Arenal and Poas, canopying trees and hills, crossing the rivers full of birds,
monkeys and crocodiles, observing the curious tiny
critters which live in the tropical jungle, surfing
in wild beaches, or enjoying the hospitality
of the native people. —Ivan Cavas
Pura
Vida!
Yap, Micronesia
When your Palau Aggressor II adventure is complete, take a short flight to Yap, the land of
Stone Money and Mantas. Yap is a quaint, quiet island, which deeply treasures and preserves its
island heritage. Visitors may browse the island’s stone paths and famous Stone Money Banks.
Diving, snorkeling, island tours, kayak tours, fishing are available.
Belize
Ecuador
Peru
36
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Pacific Ocean
Dirty Rock
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Cocos Island
Dos Amigos
Lone Stone
Ten-day trips are Tuesday to Friday with
seven days of diving.
Arrival and Boarding
An overnight stay is required
in San Jose prior to the charter.
Transfers are provided from the
Alta and Indigo Hotels in San Jose
on the day of departure. To view
the hotel pick-up time schedule, visit www.aggressor.com/subpage10.php. The
scenic two-hour, air-conditioned bus ride to
Puntarenas showcases some of Costa Rica’s most
beautiful views.
High-Voltage Diving
Once you back roll into the water from the roomy
dive tender, get ready for an adrenaline rush!
Schools of Tuna, swarms of sharks, Eagle Rays, and
turtles have earned Cocos the title of the “world’s
premier big-animal destination,” and after just a few
dives, you will agree. Cocos diving is drift diving.
38
Alcyone
Submerged
Rock
Cocos Isl a n d Iti n er a ry · Eig ht- day o r Ten - day E xcu rs io ns
Voyage to Adventure
Once aboard, the 342-mile journey to Cocos begins.
Dolphins and whales often escort the Aggressor on
the voyage, which takes approximately 30 hours.
The trip gives divers plenty of time to prepare their
gear and their hearts for the magnificent creatures
awaiting their arrival!
Silverado
The island’s premier sites like Alcyone, Dirty
Rock and Dos Amigos are world renowned for their
prolific Hammerhead activity. Silverado even boasts
a shark cleaning station. Don’t miss the night dive at
Manuelita, where you will witness dozens of Whitetip Sharks patrolling the dark ocean floor.
A Cool Shower
If conditions permit, guests are
shuttled to the island for a land hike
and chance to swim in one of the
island’s lush waterfalls. Keep an
eye out for treasure—Cocos was
once a stop-over for pirates.
Checkout
Checkout time is 7:30 a.m. on the morning of departure. After arriving back on the mainland, the crew
will transfer you and
your luggage with the
group to one of the host
hotels in San Jose or to
the airport. Okeanos
Aggressor guests will
arrive in San Jose late
morning; therefore, departing flights should be
scheduled after 12:30 p.m.
39
G iving B ack :
G iving B ack :
The world travels of the
Haiti Medical Relief Supplies
When the disaster happened in Haiti, we reached out to the
Red Cross in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic to find out
what the Haiti Red Cross immediate needs were. We then contacted guests to see if they would be willing to bring supplies
in their luggage. The generosity was overwhelming. Here’s
what one Aggressor Fleet guest, Brett Walker contributed.
Brett Walker,
When Brett Walker received our email request to bring first Operations & Maintenance Supervisor,
aid supplies to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, he wasted
Montecito Sanitary District
no time getting assistance. The Montecito Fire District purchased over $700 worth of medical supplies with monies donated by MERRAG Members in addition to several private individuals. After lost baggage, two hours in customs itemizing the supplies in
Spanish a representative from the Red Cross -Dominican Republic Office, graciously took possession of the medical supplies and expressed his deep emotional gratitude on the behalf of himself and
the Haitian People from which is his home country. Brett donated his MERRAG T-Shirt to Vernon
of the Red Cross and he was tearful with emotion.
“The mission had been completed on February 6, 2010 and if someone had asked me of what
I was going to do on my 50th birthday, I would never have guessed that I would carry a 50 pound
bag of medical supplies, nearly 3,000 miles to the Red Cross in the Dominican Republic while on
vacation. I am so very grateful for the opportunity to answer the call from Anne Hasson and Captain
Amanda Bryan of the Aggressor Fleet, Geri Simmons of the Montecito Fire District also of MERRAG, and the members of the Montecito Emergency Reaction & Recovery Group (MERRAG) that
donated supplies and money for this most worthy need of the Haitian people,” says Walker.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE!
Aggressor Fleet’s Anne Hasson Elected
to the Women Divers Hall of Fame!
Anne Davis Hasson, co-founder of Aggressor Fleet, is
the Manager and Marketing Director for Aggressor Fleet.
For over 26 years, she has spearheaded many innovative
programs to keep divers diving, accommodating more than
100,000 divers on Aggressor Fleet yachts.
The Women Divers Hall of Fame (WDHOF), the non-profit
organization whose members are the most accomplished and
renowned women divers in the world, has just selected ten
new Members, including Hasson. WDHOF’s mission is to
recognize the contributions of outstanding women divers and
to offer financial and mentorship assistance to women and
men interested in pursuing diving careers. As such, WDHOF offers 13 scholarships and training grants a year worth many thousands of dollars.
WDHOF Members are the leaders, pioneers and record-setting champions in every sector
of the diving community, including arts, science, deep sea exploration, marine archeology,
medicine, free diving, equipment technology, cave diving, wreck diving, military diving,
commercial diving, media, training and education, and business. For more information about
the WDHOF scholarship program, log on to www.wdhof.org.
Aggressor is Proud Platinum
Sponsor of California Ships to
Reefs 2010 Fundraising Campaign
“Dear Dive Industry Executive:
We need your help again this year, so we can build upon the success of California Ships
to Reefs (CSTR). We have projects now in progress and several in review. Our re-reefing
studios are underway, and we are currently negotiating for five vessels, and if everything
goes as expected we will have reefing events in 2011or 2012.
As a result of Project Yukon, the San Diego Dive Industry also a 50% increase in growth.
The City of San Diego revenues have grown by $4.5 billion annually, as documented in a
study by Linwood Pendleton of UCLA.
We are personally appealing to you for help with your tax-deductible donation of cash
or items for auction and raffle. If you are exhibiting at Bay Area Dive Show and/or SCUBA
Show 2010, you will also receive a plaque that may be placed n your booth showing your
commitment to the Ships to Reefs effort.”
—Joe Geldin , Chairman and CEO
Upon receiving this request, Aggressor Fleet responded quickly with a Platinum Sponsor
Cayman Aggressor IV vacation valued at $2,695.00. Learn more at www.cs2r.org.
Volunteer Divers get
Aggressor Gift
The 29th Annual Avalon Underwater Cleanup was
held on February 20, 2010. Aggressor Fleet donated
500 backpacks as a token of appreciation to the
volunteers.
The Avalon Harbor Underwater Cleanup is an annual
dive event held at Avalon Harbor on Catalina Island on
the Saturday following President’s Day in February. The
event was started in the 1970’s by the local dive community in an effort to cleanup Avalon Harbor, and this
event is the only time diving is permitted in the Harbor.
Over the years, this event
has grown to become one
of the most publicized and
popular dive events in
Southern California. Many
think it’s the largest dive
event in the world.
Boot Scootn’ Good Time
Benefits Red Cross
The Augusta, Georgia Red Cross office
hosted it’s annual “Boot Scoot Boogie”
fund raiser in February. To increase the
fund raising efforts, Aggressor Fleet
donated a Cayman Aggressor IV vacation
package valued at over $5,000. Yee-Haw!
Want to Own an
Aggressor Franchise?
E-mail: wwm@aggressor.com
41
New Reef Ambassador
Specialty Certification
Diving and Snorkeling
Fun for the Entire Family
Our commitment to family diving vacations began
in 1998. The family scuba and snorkeling program has
since expanded to many destinations around the world.
Families have spent several summer vacations at
sea and parents have watched their children grow up on
Aggressor yachts.
Here is a sample of some of the fun things you and your
kids will do together:
• Snorkeling and Scuba diving (youth 10 and over)
• Fish and coral I.D.
• Local culture and customs
• Scavenger hunts
• Beachcombing and seashore creature I.D.
• Small boat handling and fishing
• Plankton sampling with a microscope
• Underwater photography and video
• Water safety and water-oriented games
2010 Family Weeks
Utila Aggressor
July 31-August 7, 2010*
July 17-24, 2010**
Belize Aggressor
June 19-26, 2010*
Cayman Aggressor
July 3-10, 2010*
*Camp Counselor Wayne Hasson
**Camp Counselor Piers van der Walt
Through an exclusive Aggressor Fleet live-aboard
program, divers can learn about our diverse coral reef
ecosystems, support future research and earn a Reef
Ambassador Specialty Certification. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society, SSI (Scuba
Schools International) and Aggressor Fleet have teamed up to create a unique speciality course.
Course enrollment costs $150, with a portion of the fee benefitting the Ocean Futures Society,
a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. SSI has generously waived all course processing fees. The
course is currently offered aboard the Turks & Caicos Aggressor II, Cayman Aggressor IV and
Belize Aggressor III, but it will soon be available to guests aboard all Aggressor yachts.
During the week-long Reef Ambassador course, divers will learn about the relationships
between key marine organisms, the value of reefs to humans, threats to their health and the role
that divers can play to preserve the marine environment. The mission of the Ocean Futures
Society is exploring our global ocean, inspiring and educating people throughout the world to
act responsibly for its protection, documenting the critical connection between humanity and
nature, and celebrating the ocean’s vital importance to the
survival of all life on our planet.
You may learn more about Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean
Futures Society at www.oceanfutures.org.
New Sales Items Added Monthly to
Online Boutique www.aggressor.com/shop
Quality, style and service is a very important
Maldives Guests View Solar Eclipse
There was much excitement on our boat when on January 15, 2010. We were fortunate enough to have had a
spectacular viewing of an annular solar eclipse. This was the longest solar eclipse in duration since 1992 and marked
the first of four eclipses that will happen throughout the year. The maximum eclipse point occurred in the middle
of the Indian Ocean and the first land it encountered was the Maldives Islands.
We decided the best place to view this was from a deserted white sand ringed island of which there are many to
choose from here. A beach BBQ was set up and during this lunch, everyone enjoyed the memorable treat. As the
moon passed between the earth and the sun, the light started to dim slowly and gently, which gave us a respite from
the midday heat as the moment of eclipse happened at 12.26pm for us. We had some X ray film on the boat so were
able to view it using that as well as a pair of reversed binoculars that projected it wonderfully onto the sand. There
were some other suggestions as to safe ways to view it, however, the binoculars worked out best.
When the moon completely covered the sun, there was a soft dusky light and a gentle silence ensued. We had a
full 10 minutes 45 seconds where there was nothing but a halo of light around the edges of the moon from the sun.
It was an amazing thing to see and will stay in our memories always. Now we can’t wait to see the next one.
— Belinda Ellis
42
Rash Guards
now on Sale!
component of the Aggressor Fleet’s successful business.
Hometown Threads is proud to be a key element in the
“Eat, Sleep, Dive and Shop” aspect of that business. By helping
the Aggressor Fleet develop and maintain an online store,
Hometown Threads has given the Aggressor Fleet a real
advantage in satisfying their loyal customers’ demand for
apparel and other items. You may not realize it but when you
order from the Aggressor Fleet the majority of orders are
custom made just for you. This “just in time approach” allows
the Aggressor Fleet to offer the latest and greatest in styles,
fashion, and technology. So while you proudly wear your
Aggressor Fleet apparel on the deck of your favorite
Aggressor Yacht, think of Hometown Threads; we will be back
on land happily creating something fantastic just for you.
Bryan Hatch
President, Hometown Threads
Tw o E xc iti n g M a ldi v es Iti n er a r i es · Su n day-to -Su n day
* Th e it i n erari es are w eather d ep end ent and at the d iscret
iscretii o n o f the Capta i n
M aldives
Itinerary II: Ari Atoll
Itinerary I: North Malé, South Malé and
Felidoo Atolls
Day 1 Welcome Aboard
Boarding 4:00 p.m. Sunday, followed by dinner
and a welcome briefing.
Days 2 and 3 Kuda Giri Wreck
Diving begins at the Kuda Giri Wreck,
followed by dives at Kandooma Thila,
Guraidhoo Corner, Cocoa Corner and
Medhu Faru.
Day 1 Welcome Aboard
Boarding 4:00 p.m. Sunday, followed by dinner
and a welcome briefing.
Day 2 High-Adrenaline Diving!
The week kicks off Monday at RasdhooMadivaru, one of the most spectacular reef
formations in the Ari Atoll, with residents like
Hammerhead Sharks, Manta Rays, Trevally and
much more.
Days 3 though 6 Blue Caves and Panettone
The crew escorts you to fabulous sites like
Madivaru-Hammerheads,
Ukulhas
Thila,
Miyaruga Thila and Panettone. One of
the week’s many unique sites is Maalhoss
Thila, also called “Blue Caves,” where the cave
ceilings are covered in white and blue soft corals.
Day 4 Coral Ceilings and Sizzling Shark Action
Guraidhoo Corner, Miyaru Kandu and Fotteyo,
one of the week’s highlights, are on tap. Fotteyo, a
photographer’s paradise, has overhangs and cave
ceilings that are covered in soft corals. You may
encounter sharks, Titan Triggerfish and schools
of Sweetlips.
Days 5 and 6 Ambara Thila’s Amazing Anemones
Diving continues Thursday at Fotteyo, Rakeedhoo Kandu, and Vattaru Kandu, where Leopard
Sharks and Manta Rays are often seen. Mulaku
Kandu, Rakeedhoo Kandu, Ambara Thila, which
is home to hundreds of anemones, and Kudiboli
Kandu are Friday’s scheduled dives.
The Maldives offers three
distinctly different types of
diving, which includes inside the
atolls, outside the atolls and inside the
channels or passes. While drift diving in
the channels, guests may encounter Napoleon
Wrasses, Manta Rays, Eagle Rays, Trevally Jacks, Batfish,
Unicornfish and several shark species, even the Whale Sharks.
Day 7 Farewell Dives with Mantas
The week culminates with stops at Guraidhoo
Corner, Embudhoo Express, Victory Wreck and
Manta Point, a Manta Ray cleaning station.
Tours in Malé are offered Saturday afternoon. The
Captain hosts an evening cocktail party. The crew
will make dinner arrangements at a local restaurant.
Day 8 Checkout
Check out is 7:00 a.m. Sunday. Day rooms in
Malé are available for up to 12 hours.
Itineraries may vary due to weather conditions and yacht location.
45
Day 7 Back to Malé
Diving wraps up Saturday morning at Maamigili
Faru and Kudarah Thila, returning to port late
afternoon. Tours in Malé are offered Saturday
afternoon. The Captain hosts an evening cocktail
party. The crew will make dinner arrangements at
a local restaurant.
Day 8 Checkout
Check out is 7:00 a.m. Sunday. Day rooms in
Malé are available for up to 12 hours.
Indian
Ocean
Rasdhoo
Atoll
Faadhippolhu
Atoll
Malé Atoll
Malé
Ari Atoll
South Malé Atoll
Felidoo Atoll
North
Nilandhoo
Mulaku Atoll
Atoll
South
Nilandhoo
Atoll
Kolhumadulu Atoll
On the Road, Aggressor
Staff at Local Dive Shows
William “Galapagos Specialist” van der Wouw (left)
with Peter Witmer (right), Manager of the Galapagos
Aggressors at the “Boot” Dive Show in Dusseldorf, Germany.
Rachel Horsfield from Divequest,
Aggressor Fleet’s largest UK reseller, with
Larry Connor, Aggressor Fleet’s Business
Development Manager at the NEC Dive
Show in Birmingham, England. If there is
a Scuba Show in your area, chances are
one of our staff will be there. Please stop
by and learn firsthand what’s new with
Aggressor Fleet.
Ronnie’s Tiramisu
by Chef Ronnie,
• 9 Eggs
• 3 Cups white sugar
• 2 - 16 oz tubs mascarpone cheese
• 2-3 Tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2-3 Packs Amaretti biscuits/ladyfingers
• 2-3 Cups of coffee
Separate egg whites from egg yolk. beat the egg whites,
then gradually add 1 1/2 cups of sugar, beat until stiff peaks
form.
In large bowl, beat egg yolks with 1 1/2 cups of sugar, then
add the mascarpone cheese.
Combine by folding in the beaten egg whites with the egg yolk mixture with a
rubber spatula. Don’t Beat.
Spread a third of the mixture in a 9” x 13” Pyrex dish.
Dip the amaretti biscuits in the coffee completely submerging (but not too long
as they will fall apart fast), then layer it on top of the mixture
covering the entire layer.
Repeat steps 4 and 5 for the second layer. Top the second layer of biscuits with
the last third of the mixture and top with cocoa powder using a sifter. Place in
freezer till ready to serve.
46
Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society
Reef Ambassadors Specialty
“Coral Reefs – Cities Under the Sea”
An education program designed for the Aggressor
Fleet as a Distinctive Specialty with Scuba Schools
International Certification
I have had the good fortune of traveling extensively and witnessing firsthand many
coral reefs around the world. I have seen the vital connections between the health of
coral reefs and the quality of people’s lives. Coral reefs themselves are interconnected
on wide geographic scales with other marine ecosystems through fish and bird migrations, the dispersal and recruitment of fish and shellfish larvae, and through people as
they travel to exploit or enjoy the reef’s resources. I have also observed how deforestation, agricultural runoff, pollution, overfishing, and destructive fishing practices affect
the vitality of coral reefs.
In spite of noble proclamations about protecting coral reefs, in every country I have
visited I can cite examples of reefs severely overexploited or stressed from human
mismanagement. The overharvest of fish throughout the Caribbean has upset ecological
balances affecting entire reef ecosystems. On some of Florida’s reefs there has been a
62 % reduction of living coral cover from 1996 to 1998! Causes of these declines are
complex but cumulative because everything is connected. As with our bodies, once our
general state of health is undermined, we are vulnerable to a host of maladies.
The common denominator in these examples of mismanagement is a lack of understanding about coral reefs: how they function, their value to humans, why they are
vulnerable to human impact, and how they can be managed sustainably. Education
at every level - from international to national, from university to village children, and
every level in between - is absolutely critical in protecting coral reefs.
My organization, Ocean Futures Society, is dedicated to raising public awareness
about the critical state of coral reefs and working with people to see them sustainably
managed. Our Reef Ambassadors Specialty Certification for Scuba Schools International and the Aggressor Fleet is a modest step toward helping divers take responsibility
for the future of coral reefs. We all must work together to insure that our grandchildren
have the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from these marvelous wonders of nature.
Upon your departure you will receive a DVD that contains an overview of the value
of reefs, threats to their health, and solutions for protecting them. I urge you to review
this information and, as a Reef Ambassador, take action to protect reefs and share what
you have learned with others.
Jean Michel Cousteau
47
Vacation Packages, Rates and Details
Prices USD and per person. All cabins have private heads and showers except twin share staterooms.
CHARTERS INCLUDE:
• Accommodations aboard the yacht • Diving • Compressed air tanks, weights & weight belts •
• Airport and/or Hotel transfers on day of charter •
• All meals and snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, local beer and wine •
(We are happy to accommodate most special dietary requests) •
CHARTERS DO NOT INCLUDE:
• Airfare (international and domestic) • Insurance • Equipment rentals •
• Nitrox fills • Certification or specialty courses •
• Hotel stays/day rooms • Dinner on final evening • Crew gratuity •
• Port/park fees and/or taxes (when applicable and subject to change without notice) •
Baja Aggressor
Length: 130 feet, Beam: 30 feet
Passengers: 20, Crew 8
5 Master and 5 Deluxe staterooms
Isla Guadalupe Itinerary
July 24-November 20, 2010 *Introductory Rate - deluxe $2,595, master $2,795
July 23-November 19, 2011 deluxe $2,695, master $2,895
· Charter length: Saturday to Friday with 4 1/2 days of Great White Shark cage diving.
· Board the bus Saturday morning at 7:00 am in San Diego for 2 hours to Ensenada, Mexico.
· Departure: 2:00 p.m. Saturday., Check out: Arrive back to host hotels San Diego, CA Friday 5:00 p.m.
· Transfers provided from San Diego, CA to Ensenada, Mexico and return.
· Great White Sharks - Cage Diving.
· All dives from mothership.
· Water temperature: 60° - 65°F, 15° - 18°C.
· 7mm wetsuit recommended.
· Airlines: Most all major carriers fly into San Diego, CA.
· Recommended Hotels: Host hotels are: Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, Hilton San Diego
Bayfront, San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina, The U.S. Grant.
· Taxes & Fees: None.
48
Baja Aggressor (cont.)
Magdalena Bay Itinerary
November 27, 2010-January 1, 2010 deluxe $2,495; master $2,695
November 26-December 31, 2011 deluxe $2,595; master $2,795
· Fly into La Paz, Mexico, board bus for 3 1/2 to Marina de Bahia Magdalena.
· Charter length: Saturday to Saturday with 5 1/2 days of diving.
· Boarding: 2:00 p.m. Saturday. Check out: 8:00 a.m. Saturday.
· Transfers provided to and from La Paz Airport.
· Gray Humpback Whales, different species of sharks, turtles, grouper, jacks, pelagics
· All dives from mothership and pangas.
· 3-5mm wetsuit recommended.
· Taxes and Fees: None.
Socorro Itinerary (The Revillagigedos Islands)
January 15-June 18, 2011 deluxe $2,795; master $2,995
January 14-June 16, 2012 deluxe $2,895; master $3,095
· Fly into Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, board bus for 30 minute ride to Puerto Los Cabos Marina.
· Charter length: 8 night charters with 5 full days of diving.
· Boarding: 2:00 pm, departure after dinner for 20-22 hour trip to Socorro. Check out: 8:00 am.
· Transfers provided to and from San Jose del Cabo (SJD) Airport.
· Known for Schooling Hammerhead Sharks, giant Pacific Manta Rays, White Tip Sharks, Silver Tip
Sharks, Galapagos Sharks, Jacks, Tuna, Wahoo, occasionally Tiger Sharks.
· All dives from pangas.
· Water Temperature: 70° - 74°F, 21° - 23°C Jan.-March; 76 - 80°F, 24° - 27°C April-June.
· Recommended Equipment: 3-5mm wetsuit.
· Taxes and Fees: None.
Belize Aggressor III Belize City
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012: deluxe $2,695 ; master $2,895
· Length: 100 feet, Beam: 22 feet
· Passengers: 18, Crew: 6
· 1 Master stateroom (double bed)
· 7 Deluxe staterooms (double with single)
· 1 Deluxe stateroom (2 singles)
Charter length: Saturday to Saturday with 5 1/2 days of unlimited diving.
Boarding and Transfers
Boarding: 2:00 p.m. Saturday. Check out: 8:00 a.m. Saturday.
Transfers provided from Belize City (BZE) International Airport to and from the yacht on Saturday.
Diving Environment
· Dolphin, Tarpon, Sharks, Eagle Rays, Walls and Reefs with abundant marine life and macro critters.
· Water temperature: 78° - 82°F, 25° - 28°C
Airlines, Hotels, Tours and Fees
· Airlines: American Airlines, Continental, Delta, US Airways and Taca.
· Recommended Hotels: Radisson Ft. George (walking distance to yacht).
· Tours: Cave tubing, Belize Zoo tour, Lamanai Ruins and Canopy tour.
· Taxes & Fees: USD $95 Port Fee paid onboard, USD $35 airport departure tax. Airport Departure tax
must be paid in cash.
49
(continued)
Cayman Aggressor IV
George Town, Grand Cayman
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012 master $2,895; deluxe $2,695; twin $2,495
· 1 Master stateroom (queen bed)
· 2 Twin staterooms (2 singles), shared bathroom
Guests are greeted at Grand Cayman (GCM) International Airport. Local law does not permit crew to
transport guests to the yacht. Transfers provided from Grand Cayman (GCM) International Airport to
and from the yacht on Saturday.
Diving Environment
· Sharks, Turtles, Stingrays, Eagle Rays, Wrecks, Lobster, Walls and Reefs with abundant marine life.
· All dives from mothership
· Water temperature: 78° - 82°F, 25° - 28°C,
Airlines and Hotels
· Airlines: American Airlines, Air Jamaica, British Air, Cayman Airways, Continental, Delta/Northwest,
US Airways, and Spirit.
· Recommended Hotel: Sunset House.
Galapagos Aggressors I & II
San Cristobal, Galapagos
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 6, 2011: master suite $4,695; deluxe $4,495
Jan. 6, 2011 - Jan. 7, 2012: master suite $4,995; deluxe $4,795
· 3 Master staterooms (2 singles or 1 queen upon request)
· 4 Deluxe staterooms (2 singles)
Charter length: Thursday to Thursday with 5 1/2 days of diving (up to 4 dives per day, plus an average of
4 guided land tours). Due to park regulations, night diving is not allowed.
Boarding: 1:00 p.m. Thursday. Check out: 9:00 a.m. Thursday.
Transfer provided from San Cristobal (SCY) airport to and from the yacht on Thursday.
Diving Environment
· Known for Whale Sharks, Schooling Hammerhead Sharks, Sea Lions, Mobula Rays, Marine Iguanas,
Blue-footed Booby Birds, Galapagos Sharks, White-tip Sharks, Seahorses and giant Tortoises.
· All dives from skiffs.
· Water temperature:
70°- 86°F, 21°- 30°C (December - May) larger schools of Hamerheads, Manta Rays and Eagle Rays.
60° - 75°F, 16° - 24°C (June - November) cooler thermoclines, Whale Shark sightings are greater.
· 5mm-7mm wetsuit recommended.
· Airlines: American Airlines, Continental and Delta; AeroGal into San Cristobal, Lan Ecuador.
· Recommended Hotels: an overnight stay is usually required and we recommend staying in Guayaquil
prior to the trip. If you are extending your stay, we recommend the Hampton Inn, downtown Guayaquil.
It includes airport transfers and breakfast.
· Tours: Quito city tour, Otavalo Indian Market, Cable car up Pichincha Volcano, Machu Picchu, Peru.
· Taxes & Fees: All paid in cash: $100 Park fee, $10 Galapagos Visitor’s Visa Card.
Departure tax: $26 Guayaquil or $41 Quito.
50
(continued)
Kona Aggressor II Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Jan. 2, 2009 - Jan. 2, 2010 deluxe $2,435; quad $2,235
Mar. 1, 2011 - Jan. 1, 2012 deluxe $2,635; quad $2,435
· 1 Quad (2 double, 2 singles)
Transfer provided to and from the yacht from Kona (KOA) airport on Saturday.
Diving Environment
· More than 20% of Hawaiian reef fishes are found nowhere else in the world, including countless
Butterfly Fish and Angelfish. Other marine species include: Hawaiian Lionfish, Dolphin, Turtles,
Mantas, Frogfish, and Eels. Humpback Whales migrate through Hawaii November through February.
· 3mm-5mm wetsuit recommended.
Airlines, Hotels and Tours
· Airlines: Hawaiian Air, Delta and United fly into Kona (Continental, United and several other
major airlines fly into Honolulu)
· Recommended Hotels: Royal Kona Resort and King Kamehameha.
· Additional activities on Hawaii: Helicopter Volcano Tour, Golfing, Mountain Biking, and Deep-sea Fishing.
Maldives Aggressor Male, Maldives
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012: deluxe $2,635; twin $2,535 (#3, #4);
twin $2,435 (#1, #2 smaller staterooms)
· 6 Deluxe staterooms (One Double, one single)
· 2 Twin (Large) staterooms (#3, #4)
· 2 Twin (Smaller) staterooms (#1, #2)
Charter length: Sunday to Sunday with 5 1/2 days of diving.
Boarding: 5:00 p.m. Sunday. Check out: 7:00 a.m. Sunday.
Transfer provided to the yacht from Male (MLE) International Airport on the day of charter. Transfer
provided to Male (MLE) International Airport from the yacht at the end of charter.
Diving Environment
· Incredibly healthy reefs are home to brightly colored Anthias, Leafish, soft corals and Napoleon Wrasses.
Big animals include Manta Rays, Hawksbill Turtles, Whale Sharks and schooling Gray Reef Sharks.
· All dives from skiff.
· Airlines: Singapore, Emirates, SriLankan, Delta and Qatar Airways.
· Recommended Hotels: Bandos Island Resort, Holiday Inn (Malé). Day room recommended on the day
of departure at the Hulhule Island Hotel.
· Sri Lanka Tours: Hiking at Bundala National Park, Anuradhapura Ancient Ruins and local tea plantations.
· Taxes & Fees: USD $8 per day bed tax paid onboard.
51
(continued)
Okeanos Aggressor Puntarenas, Costa Rica
Eight-day charters:
Mar. 1, 2010 - Dec. 26, 2010: deluxe $3,835; quad $3,435
Eight-day charters are Saturday to Sunday with 5 days of diving
(3-4 dives per day).
Ten-day charters: *In 2011, all charters are ten days.
Mar. 1, 2010 – Dec. 30, 2011: deluxe $4,235; quad $3,835
Ten-day charters are Tuesday to Friday with 7 days of diving (3-4 dives per day).
· 1 Quad stateroom (2 doubles with 2 singles)
Boarding: Dependent upon tide schedule. Transfer provided to the yacht from the host hotels (Alta and
Indigo Hotels) in San Jose on the day of the charter. Please visit our website for departure schedule.
Transfer provided to the host hotels or San Jose (SJO) airport from the yacht at the end of charter.
Check out: 7:30 a.m. the morning of departure.
Diving Environment
· Known for Whale Sharks, Schooling Hammerhead Sharks, White-tip Sharks, Tuna, Manta Rays,
Turtles and Giant Frogfish.
· All dives from skiffs.
· Water temperature: 72° - 82°F, 22° - 28°C with cooler thermoclines.
· Airlines: American Airlines, Continental, Delta, Lacsa and US Airways.
· Recommended Hotels: Alta Hotel and Indigo Hotel in San Jose. An overnight stay in San Jose is
usually required prior to the trip due to airline schedules.
· Tours: White-water rafting, Arenal Volcano, Coter Rain Forest tour, Irazu Volcano National Park and
Miramar Canopy tour.
· Taxes & Fees: $175 Park fee for 8 day trip, $245 Park fee for 10 day trip, $26 airport departure tax
(All fees and taxes must be paid in cash)
Palau Aggressor II Koror, Palau
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 3, 2010 deluxe $3,035; double $2,835
Jan. 3, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012 deluxe $3,135; double $2,935
· 1 Double stateroom on dive deck (two doubles)
Charter length: Sunday to Sunday with 5 1/2 days of diving.
Boarding: 5:00 p.m. Sunday. Check out: 8:00 a.m. Sunday.
Transfer provided to the yacht from Koror (ROR) International Airport, or hotel, on the day of charter.
Transfer provided to Koror (ROR) International Airport, or hotel, from the yacht at the end of charter.
Diving Environment
· Known for Grey Reef Sharks, White-tipped Sharks, Manta Rays, Cuttlefish, Mandarin Fish, WWII
wrecks, and Stingless Jellyfish at Jellyfish Lake.
· All dives from skiff.
52
(continued)
Palau Aggressor II (cont.)
· Airline: Continental Micronesia
· Recommended Hotels: Palau Pacific Resort, Palau Royal and Cliffside Hotel.
· Tours: Kayaking, Crocodile Farm Tour and WWII tours.
· Taxes & Fees: USD $35 Weekly Cabin Tax, USD $55 Dive Tax, paid onboard; USD $15 Green Tax a
USD $20 Airport Departure Fee must be paid in cash.
Providenciales (April- Jan.)
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012 master $2,995; deluxe $2,695; twin $2,495
· 1 Master (queen)
· 6 Deluxe (double with single)
· 2 Twin (2 singles with shared bathroom)
Scuba Charter length: Saturday to Saturday with 5 1/2 days of unlimited diving.
Transfer provided to yacht from Providenciales (PLS) International Airport on the day of charter. Transfer provided to Providenciales (PLS) International Airport from boat at the end of charter.
Diving Environment
· Known for sheer walls with healthy corals including huge Orange Elephant Ear Sponges. Marine
species include Gray Reef Sharks, Angelfish, Eagle Rays, Horse-eye Jacks, Lobster, Snapper,
Garden Eels and Nurse Sharks.
· Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, Spirit and US Airways fly into Providenciales.
· Recommended Hotels: Comfort Suites, Grace Bay Suites, Ocean Club in Provo.
· Tours: Golfing, Iguana Farm, Conch Farm, Bone Fishing, and shopping in Provo.
· Taxes: USD $45 bed tax paid onboard.
Snorkeling Only Humpback Whale Expeditions,
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (Feb. - April)
Mar. 1.-April 10, 2011 master $3,295; deluxe $2,995; twin $2,795
Humpback Whale Charter length: Saturday to Saturday with 4 1/2
days of whale encounters.
*The first Whale charter begins in Grand Turk and ends in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. The last
charter begins in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic and ends in Grand Turk. All charters in between
operate from Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Boarding: 4:00 p.m. Saturday. Departs marina for Silver Bank at 10:00 p.m.
Check out: 8:00 a.m. Saturday.
Transfers Humpback Whale Charters: Transfer provided to yacht from Puerto Plata (POP) International Airport on the day of charter. Transfer provided to Puerto Plata (POP) International Airport from
boat at the end of charter. No transfers provided to and from hotels.
53
(continued)
Snorkeling Only Humpback Whale Expeditions (cont.)
Snorkeling Environment
· Guests may swim with Humpback Whales. Guides are with guests at all times. Fantastic topside photo
opportunities are available from skiffs and mothership.
· All snorkeling from skiffs.
Airlines, Hotels and Fees
· Airlines: American Airlines, Jet Blue, Delta (non-stop from JFK) and Continental (non-stop from
Newark) fly into Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. Air Turks & Caicos flies into Grand Turk and offers
other inter-island flights.
· Recommended Hotels: Iberostar Costa Dorada and Riu Bachata in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
· Taxes & Fees Whale Charter: USD $150 Whale Sanctuary fee and port fee in Grand Turk and Puerto
Plata paid onboard. Professional photographers and videographers must pay an additional fee.
Utila Aggressor Utila, Honduras
Mar. 1, 2010 - Jan. 1, 2012: deluxe $2,595; quad $2,295
· 1 Quad stateroom (4 singles)
Charter length: Saturday to Saturday with 5 1/2 days of diving.
New yacht under construction
Transfer provided to the yacht from the Utila airport on the day of charter. Transfer provided to the Utila
airport from the yacht at the end of charter.
Diving Environment
· Whale Sharks (February-March and August-September), Dolphin, Eagle Rays, Sharks, Seahorses,
Horse-eye Jacks, Stargazer and Frogfish are a few of the marine creatures you will encounter. Utila and
Roatan are also known for their sheer walls, which have huge Barrel Sponges and giant Gorgonians.
· Airlines: Continental, American Airlines, Delta, Spirit, US Airways and Taca into San Pedro Sula (SAP).
Utila Aggressor Charter Flight: Charter flight from San Pedro Sula to Utila is at 3:00 pm. At the end
of the week, the return flight from Utila to San Pedro Sula is at 8:00 a.m. Cost is $150 per person and
paid onboard.
· Recommended Hotels: Crown Plaza and Clarion in San Pedro Sula and Laguna Beach Resort on Utila.
· Tours: Copan Mayan ruins and zipline tours on mainland.
· Taxes & Fees: USD $95 Port Fee paid onboard, USD $33 Airport Departure fee must be paid in cash.
Credit cards may be used for all taxes/fees paid aboard.
Consult your “Know Before You Go” for credit cards accepted at each destination.
Customized T’shirts
For Groups
It’s Easy and Reasonable:
• Order a destination t’shirt in the design/color below
• Choice of two lines of printing on the left sleeve or a logo
• Logo must be print ready
• No t’shirt color changes
• Sizing small to xxx-lg
Cost: $16.50 per shirt plus shipping
Allow 2-4 weeks
e-mail: marketing@aggressor.com
Our Vacation Guarantee!
Aggressor Fleet expects passengers to have a safe and fun dive
vacation as they leave their worries at home. We understand that
our guests take their vacation time seriously. A named meteorological disturbance can make the seas rough everywhere, adversely
affecting valuable dive time. This is why Aggressor Fleet has
developed a “StormCheck” policy. This policy will compensate
guests who lose days of diving on Aggressor Fleet charters as a
result of a named meteorological disturbance.
Any guest whose diving is interrupted as a result of a named
storm will receive a credit voucher based on the number of days of diving missed in the form of a
“StormCheck”. If the entire charter week is cancelled in advance due to a storm’s predicted path
and landfall as forecasted, guests will automatically receive a “StormCheck” voucher for the total
amount of their Aggressor Charter. “StormCheck” vouchers allow guests to return to that destination within one year of the interrupted trip. The “StormCheck” applies to passengers who do not
receive compensation from their trip insurance carrier. “StormCheck” vouchers are not issued when
the guest is unable to get to the destination due to transportation issues, whether a result of the storm
or any other conditions and the yacht is not affected for the entire charter.
55
Certification Courses & Rental Gear
Introduction to Scuba $150
Non-divers discover the beauty of scuba diving, all under the
guidance of a personal dive instructor. Includes all equipment
and two open-water dives.
Specialty Courses $150 Each
Open Water Certification $300
Get your scuba certification in one week. Learn all aspects
of scuba needed for safe and fun diving activities with your
private instructor including, lectures, confined water, entries,
exits, ascents, descents, navigation, emergency procedures
and buoyancy control. All final check-out dives, written and
practical tests and equipment included.
U/W Photographer or Videographer: This is an introduction to basic underwater photography using a digital or video
camera. You’ll learn about the different lenses, cameras,
strobes and techniques. This course gives students an overview of digital still and/or digital video cameras, housings,
lighting, exposure, storage and computer editing. Equipment
is not included.
Open Water Check-out Dives $150
Complete pool and classroom work at home, bring a referral
from your instructor, and you can complete your training with
our professional onboard instructors.
Master Diver $300
This certification is the highest skill level a recreational diver
can achieve. The Master Scuba Diver indicates you have a
significant amount of training and experience in a variety of
dive environments. Prior to the course, you must have completed the following: Advanced Open Water, First Aid, CPR
and three specialty courses. The Master Diver certification
includes two additional specialty courses of your choice.
Registration/card fee and books not included in any course price.
Nitrox Diving
Nitrox Certification Course $150
Includes all necessary equipment
(tanks, use of oxygen analyzer, use
of course materials, instructor, and check out dives). Student
may continue to dive Nitrox using the student fill rate the
entire week once they have completed the course.
Advanced Open Water: This continuing education course
includes three specialty dives of your choice such as deep
diver, navigation, underwater naturalist, etc.
NEW Reef Ambassador: Through an
exclusive Aggressor Fleet live-aboard
program, divers can learn about our
diverse coral reef ecosystems, support
future research and earn a Reef Ambassador Specialty Certification. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ocean Futures Society,
SSI and Aggressor Fleet have teamed up to create a unique
speciality course.
Night Diver: Learn how to plan a night dive using the proper
signals and navigation. Discover marine life found only at night.
Deep Diver: Learn emergency decompression procedures,
and how to plan deeper, safer dives, while understanding the
risks involved in deep diving.
Environmental Diver: Learn about critters, fish, living coral
and their behavior patterns. Discover where to find them and
how to study them in their environment, what they eat and
how they breathe.
Nitrox Student Fills $80
Includes all nitrox tank fills at 32% beyond the certification level and only available to those who take the course
on board.
U/W Photography
Digital U/W Photo Package:
Includes digital camera, U/W
housing, and strobe. Batteries
are good for about two dives.
AA batteries are included on
the initial set-up. $100 per week / $25 per day
We recommend bringing 6-12 AA batteries and blank CD/
DVDs
Nitrox Unlimited Fills $100
Includes all Nitrox fills at 32% for certified Nitrox Divers.
(Ten day trips are $150) Proof of certification required.
SLR and Aquatica Housing Package: Includes
an Aquatica housing for the Nikon D80, which is
10.5 megs. $250 per week
with photo specialty course $200
Dive Equipment Rental
BCD $60 (per charter)
Regulator, alternate air source and gauges $60 (per charter)
Dive Computer $125 (per charter)
Night Light $8 (per night)
Wetsuits $70 (per charter: Baja, Galapagos, Okeanos)
Nitrox and Rental prices are for Seven-day charters.
Prices are prorated for longer trips.
Blank CD Rom. $5 each
Souvenir DVD of your Aggressor vacation. $65
To assure availability of courses, equipment,
videos and programs, please reserve in advance.
†Equipment may vary between yachts.
††Due to remote locations, equipment availability is subject
to change.
If any of your dive equipment fails while onboard, the crew will loan equipment to you, free of charge.
Subject to availability.
Terms & Conditions
PAYMENT POLICY
Individuals : 40% of the charter rate is due within 14 days of the reservation. Final payment is due ninety (90) days prior
to departure date.
Groups (half yacht or more): A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $1,500 accompanied by a signed contract is
required within 14 days of the reservation. Nine (9) months prior to departure date, an additional non-refundable, non-transferable deposit of $3,500 deposit is due. Six (6) months prior to departure, 40% of the charter funds are due. Final payment
is due ninety (90) days prior to departure date.
Complimentary Spaces: Whole yacht charters that accommodate 14 passengers or less and are filled to capacity earn one
free space. Whole yacht charters that accommodate 18 passengers or more and are filled to capacity, earn two free spaces.
Half yacht charters on yachts that accommodate 18 passengers or more earn one free space. Free spaces are always considered to be the lesser priced berth and must be designated prior to the charter. *There are NO half yacht free spaces offered on
the Galapagos Aggressors or Kona Aggressor II.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Reservations made through Dive Centers, Travel Agents or Tour Operators are
subject to their Payment and Cancellation Policies.
Individuals: If a cancellation is made:
1. 121 days or more prior to departure, 20% of the charter rate is forfeited.
2. 120 - 91 days prior to departure, 40% of the charter rate is forfeited.
3. 90 days or less prior to departure, 100% of the charter rate is forfeited and no refund is available.
Groups (half yacht or more): If a charter is cancelled:
1. More than nine (9) months prior to departure, the $1,500 deposit is forfeited.
2. Nine (9) months to 181 days prior to departure, the $5,000 deposit is forfeited.
3. 180 - 91 days prior to departure, 40% of the group charter rate is forfeited.
4. 90 days or less prior to departure, 100% of the charter rate is forfeited and no refund is available.
Groups (half yacht or more): If the number of passengers is reduced from original reservation:
1. More than nine (9) months prior to departure, the reservation may be reduced down to one paying passenger which will result in reduction/loss of free space(s).
2. Nine (9) months to 181 days or more prior to departure, 20% of the charter rate per passenger cancelled is
forfeited, and there is a reduction/loss of free space(s).
3. 180 - 91 days prior to departure, 40% of the charter rate per passenger cancelled is forfeited and there is a
reduction/loss of free space(s).
4. 90 days or less prior to departure, 100% of the charter rate per person is forfeited and there is a reduction/loss
of free space(s).
PAYMENTS
When making payments, they should include confirmation number, yacht and charter date. Checks shall be made payable
to Aggressor Fleet. There is a service charge of USD$30 per wire transfer. Each wire transfer is to include this additional
amount. Reservations made ninety (90) days prior to departure date will require full payment made by credit card or certified
USD funds (no personal checks) within 2 days of the reservation.
• Aggressor Fleet accepts Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Agent commissions will be reduced by 3% for
the entire reservation when paying with a credit card.
• Taxes and fees apply to all passengers.
• Any revisions to a reservation must be in writing.
• Prices subject to change without notice.
CRUISE APPLICATION/WAIVER POLICY
The Cruise Application/Waiver, found at www.aggressor.com under Downloads, must be fully completed, signed (digitally
or manually) and received by the Reservations Center (90) days prior to departure date. Passengers who fail to comply will be
canceled and denied boarding. For those passengers traveling on back-to-back charters, a Cruise Application/Waiver must be
completed and signed for each trip. If a reservation is made ninety (90) days or less prior to the charter date, completed and
signed Cruise Application/Waiver must accompany full payment in accordance with the payment policies to confirm reservation.
INSURANCE
Every effort is made to ensure you have a safe trip but, we highly recommend purchasing trip cancellation/interruption
insurance and accident, medical, and baggage insurance.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: A single supplement rate is 1½ times the charter rate, if an individual traveler prefers a private
room (not applicable on group charters).
3/4/10
Aggressor Fleet · Ph: 800-348-2628 (Toll free US & Canada) · Ph: +1-706-993-2531 · Fax: +1-706-737-7690
57
Moorings, a
Commitment
Dive Green
Since 1984
Aggressor Fleet crew, working both independently
and with other local dive operators and liveaboards,
continue on a fierce mooring campaign and the work
isn’t over yet. Crews in all Aggressor destinations continue
to drill new moorings and maintain current mooring by
refurbishing old lines, balls in an effort to prevent boats from dropping their anchors,
which over time, destroys reefs.
Aggressor Fleet established the first mooring program with the introduction of the
Cayman Aggressor in 1984. As Chairman of the Cayman Islands Watersports Operators
Association Moorings Team, Capt. Wayne Hasson literally drilled and cemented in 105
moorings in three months. In every Aggressor destination, crew members place strong,
secure moorings that preserve the reefs for future divers.
“Well-anchored moorings with large surface buoys
offer dive boats, large and small, the most efficient and
environmentally friendly anchoring
system. Each Aggressor absorbs much of
the costs associated with the installations
but it’s well worth it,”
says Wayne Hasson, President of Aggressor Fleet.
58
Check availability and make your vacation reservations online at www.aggressor.com
Contact Us
Corporate Office
209 Hudson Trace
Augusta, GA 30907 USA
Wayne B. Brown,
Chairman and CEO
Tel: 706-737-7687
wbb@aggressor.com
Wayne Hasson,
President
Tel: 800-348-2628
+1-239-449-6233
wayne@aggressor.com
Reservations:
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm (EST)
Ph: 800-348-2628 (Toll free US & Canada)
Ph: +1-706-993-2531
Fax: +1-706-737-7690
After Hours: (emergency or delay in travel)
+1-985-714-1300
Airline & Tour Department
Live Aboard Vacations:
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm (EST)
Phone: 800-348-2628 or +1-706-993-2531
E-mail: info@liveaboardvacations.com
Holiday Closings 2010
April 10th - Good Friday
May 25th - Memorial Day
July 3rd - Independance Day (USA)
September 7th - Labor Day
November 26th, 27th - Thanksgiving
December 24th - Christmas Eve
E-mail:
General: info@aggressor.com
Accounting: accounting@aggressor.com
Baja: baja@aggressor.com
Belize: belize@aggressor.com
Cayman: cayman@aggressor.com
Dominican Republic:
turkscaicos@aggressor.com
Galapagos:galapagos@aggressor.com
Kona: kona@aggressor.com
Maldives: maldives@aggressor.com
Okeanos (Cocos): okeanos@aggressor.com
Palau: palau@aggressor.com
Turks & Caicos: turkscaicos@aggressor.com
Utila: utila@aggressor.com
Agents, Dealers, and Tour Operators:
sales@aggressor.com
Marketing / Advertising:
marketing@aggressor.com
December 25th - Christmas Day
Tell us about your trip:
wecare@aggressor.com
Want to apply for a job with a franchise?
E-mail your resume
to jobs@aggressor.com.
Thank You
Since 1984, Aggressor Fleet has depended on loyal
customers who continue to use our yachts year after
year and for this, we would like to says thank you. We
are a company who understands that loyalty depends
on happy customers and this comes from providing the
ultimate service. We aim to put the needs of our guests
first and pride ourselves on treating everyone as ladies,
gentlemen and family.
Staff members are hand picked by Aggressor Fleet yacht managers and
we are proud to say that crews are trained extensively before they are put
into positions of authority. We especially like to hear from guests after they
depart and we share comments with staff, which keeps everyone sharp. We
also continue to seek new service ideas. The growth of Aggressor Fleet is a
result of your suggestions. The future success of Aggressor Fleet involves you,
but it also requires that our yacht staff enjoy providing the ultimate service.
It’s a tough job living at sea, scuba diving in all those great places and doing
something that you love, but someone has to do it...
Always Safe Diving
Wayne Hasson, President
Franchise Opportunities:
wwm@aggressor.com
Hometown Threads
Want custom t-shirts at
reasonable prices for your group?
E-mail: debbie@hometownthreads.com
Anne Hasson,
Manager
Tel: 800-348-2628
+1-239-593-0191
anne@aggressor.com
Make your
reservations at
www.aggressor.com
60
Aggressor Fleet Partners
WayneWorks Marine, LLC
209 Hudson Trace
Augusta, GA 30907 USA
800-348-2628, +1-706-993-2531
info@aggressor.com · www.aggressor.com
A g g r e s s o r
F l e e t
W o r l d - w i d e
A d v e n t u r e s

Aggressor Fleet® Aggressor Fleet

Transcription

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