SEA Expedition: A Continuing Education Experience
Description of our last Adult program. Please check back for updates on Adult programs for 2008.
The Place
The French Polynesian Islands
The French Polynesian Islands are a startling terrestrial oasis in the middle of the South Pacific. Created by volcanism, and maintained by extensive coral reefs, these islands maintain a precarious existence thousands of miles from nearest landmass. This mid-ocean archipelago actually consists of several separate island groups, each with their own distinct beauty and natural history.
The People
Far as they are, these islands have been inhabited for over two thousand years. In a remarkable feat of early oceanic exploration, the Polynesian peoples fanned out from around New Guinea to settle virtually all islands in this vast region. Various degrees of isolation from other islands facilitated the development of distinct cultural identities among the islands.
The Expedition
Join us on the SSV Robert C. Seamans on a voyage of exploration through these remarkable islands. During a ten-day trip, you’ll learn about the ecology of the islands both above- and under water, and the challenges faced from global warming. You’ll learn about the cultural history of the Polynesian people, how they survived the contact with Europeans and strive for economic independence today. The expedition will take us on a 400-mile sail from the rugged landscapes of the high Society Islands to the waters and reefs of the most windward island group including Raiatea with its deep water bays, the paradisical Maupiti, charming Bora Bora which is protected by a circling barrier reef and Huahine with its marae temples that will give us clues to the 1,000 year old civilization. Talks and guided tours will provide you an in-depth introduction to these barrier coral reefs and surrounding ocean, the tropical rain forests and the cultural history of the Polynesian migration across the region.
