General Manager’s Letter to Crew Leaders
Welcome to the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base!!
We’re excited that you will be joining us for what we know will be the adventure of a lifetime. The staff of the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base is dedicated to delivering one-of-a-kind ocean adventures in a positive, encouraging and accepting environment that enhances the Scouting experience of every participant in our program, youth or adult. However, the final key to the quality of your Sea Base experience is YOU and your preparation to take part in one of our amazing adventures.
Please read this guidebook from cover to cover and encourage all Scouts to do so as well, and then make sure that the information is shared with all parents. Even if you have been here before, it is vital that you go through this information – our programs are always evolving and changing and things may not be like they were in the past.
This guidebook provides you with all of the information you’ll need to plan and prepare for your high adventure. Remember – A Scout is Prepared! Your organization, planning, forethought and enthusiasm will make the magic of the Sea Base come true for each and every person in your crew.
Please understand that, due to the unique nature of our programs, the Sea Base has medical requirements that are often stricter than for other Scouting activities. This is solely for the safety and protection of every Sea Base participant. Scouts and leaders with a history of asthma, diabetes and seizure disorder need to pay special attention to these requirements, especially if they are participating in scuba programs. The Sea Base Health and Medical Record has more detailed information.
Three other Sea Base safety issues that merit special emphasis are:
Sun Block with a rating of SPF 30 or higher: Let’s face it – sunburn is a bummer and will ruin an otherwise great experience. Our sub-tropical sun is very different from what you’re used to and you can burn easily if you don’t take the proper precautions. In addition, please bring lotion ONLY – no spray bottles (even pumps) and make sure it is sun block, not suntan lotion.
Plastic or metal drinking container: All of the activities is outdoors and in the sub-tropics, it is vital that everyone hydrate well (that is – DRINK LOTS OF WATER!). There’s always fresh water available, however all participants must bring their own water conveyance or purchase on in the Ship’s Store. Bottles such as Nalgene® or similar products work great. You might want to have a clip like a caribiner so that it doesn’t go to “Davy Jones’ Locker” (that’s nautical for in the ocean!).
Hat and Sunglasses: Do as our staff does – wear a hat and sunglasses whenever possible. Those that offer 100% UV protection are best and polarized lenses will help reduce glare on the water.
Also know that the Florida Sea Base offers partial need based scholarships to deserving Scouts who might not otherwise be able to attend. Scholarships are awarded based on need and Scouting background and involvement. Applications are available on our website www.bsaseabase.org.
The staff of the Florida National High Adventure Sea Base is looking forward to having you join us for an absolutely amazing aquatic experience! We do everything possible to live up to our slogan of “Delivering Ocean Adventures That Make a Lifetime Difference”. See you soon!
Yours in Scouting,
Paul Beal
General Manager