In March 2009, a group of navigators, captains & crew will take part in a training voyage to Palmyra & Kiritimati (Christmas Island). Visiting these atolls will provide crew with the opportunity to examine two diverse environments, as well as obtain valuable training for future voyages. Upon their return, they will share experiences and lessons learned.

Palmyra Atoll is located approximately 1,052 miles S/SW of Hawai’i. It is one of the most pristine, diverse & spectacular reef systems in the world.

Kiritimati (Christmas Island) is the largest coral atoll & is known for its millions of nesting tropical birds. Unlike Palmyra, it is inhabited; its population consists largely of those of Polynesian & Micronesian descent. Its existence, along with a number of Pacific island nations is said to be threatened by climate change and the resultant rise in sea levels.

From the PVS Newsletter, December 2008. Click on the link for a pdf version of the newsletter (1000 KB).