Returning to the Abacos for a second annual week of restoration and adventure.
About the Expedition
Building on the success of our inaugural April 2026 expedition, we are returning to Green Turtle Cay for a second annual week of hands-on coral restoration and exploration in the Abacos.
Green Turtle Cay sits in the heart of the Abaco chain, surrounded by some of the most vibrant reefs in the northern Bahamas. This expedition puts you underwater alongside marine scientists and local dive experts for a week of meaningful work and unforgettable diving.
You will explore coral caverns, swim through underwater tunnels, and dive the historic San Jacinto wreck. Between the adventure dives, you will plant coral fragments at active nursery sites and contribute directly to reef recovery in the Abacos.
The expedition also features time at the turtle lagoon with Brendal himself, one of the most recognized figures in Bahamian diving. Whether you are drawn to the science, the diving, or the community, this week delivers something rare: a chance to leave a place better than you found it.
Our 2026 expedition proved that small groups and focused effort can make a real difference. Participants planted over 300 coral fragments, earned PADI Reef Rescue Diver certifications, and left Green Turtle Cay with skills and memories that last well beyond the trip.
For 2027, we are refining the itinerary based on what we learned. The same world-class team is returning, the same dive sites are on the schedule, and the same partnership with Brendal’s Dive Center ensures every underwater moment counts.
Whether you joined us in 2026 or this will be your first time, expect warm Bahamian water, healthy reef systems, and a group small enough that every diver gets real mentorship from the scientists leading the work.
See the Mission
For over 50 years, PIMS has been at the forefront of marine research and conservation in The Bahamas.
50+
Years of Research
40K+
Corals Outplanted
100+
Published Studies
15+
Island Nations Impacted
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Brendal Stevens has been a fixture of Green Turtle Cay diving for over 40 years. His dive center is not a resort dive op. It is a deeply personal operation run by someone who grew up on these reefs and has dedicated his life to sharing them responsibly.
Brendal’s team handles all logistics on the water, from boat operations to dive site selection. They know every coral head, every swim-through, and every turtle resting spot in the area. That local knowledge makes this expedition possible.
Working with Brendal’s means small boats, flexible scheduling, and a guide-to-diver ratio that allows genuine mentorship. You will not be herded through a dive site. You will be shown what matters and given the time to learn from it.
Every participant will have the opportunity to earn the PADI Reef Rescue Diver Specialty certification during the expedition. This is not a classroom exercise. You will learn coral restoration techniques in real-world conditions on active reef sites.
The curriculum covers coral biology fundamentals, nursery maintenance, fragment preparation, and outplanting methods. You will work directly with PIMS scientists who designed the Reef Rescue Network protocols now used across the Caribbean.
By the end of the week, you will hold a globally recognized certification and have hands-on experience restoring a reef system. This credential is increasingly valued by dive operators, marine parks, and conservation organizations worldwide.
Expedition Highlights
Explore coral caverns, swim-throughs, and the historic San Jacinto wreck. Every dive site in the Abacos offers something different, from shallow reefs to dramatic wall formations.
Plant coral fragments at active nursery sites alongside PIMS scientists. You will contribute directly to reef recovery and see firsthand how restoration science works in the field.
Earn your PADI Reef Rescue Diver Specialty certification during the trip. This globally recognized credential validates real-world restoration skills learned in the field.
The Abacos are home to green turtles, spotted eagle rays, reef sharks, and an incredible diversity of marine life. Every dive offers the chance to witness something extraordinary.
Spend time at the famous turtle lagoon with Brendal himself. Learn about the green turtle population that calls the Abacos home and the efforts to protect their habitat.
Small group sizes mean you get direct access to PIMS scientists and Brendal’s team. Ask questions, learn techniques, and build relationships that last well beyond the trip.
Day by Day
April 17-24, 2027
Arrive at Green Turtle Cay and transfer to The Bluff House. Settle in, meet the expedition team, and enjoy a welcome dinner overlooking the Sea of Abaco. The evening includes a briefing on the week ahead, covering dive plans, restoration goals, and safety protocols.
Start the day with a refresher dive to get comfortable with the local conditions and your equipment. Afternoon brings your first adventure dive at Coral Caverns, one of the most spectacular formations in the Abacos. Evening Reef Rescue classroom session covering coral biology, reef ecology, and restoration methods.
Full day dedicated to staghorn coral restoration. Morning session covers fragment preparation and nursery maintenance techniques. Afternoon dive focuses on hands-on staghorn coral planting under the guidance of PIMS scientists. You will learn to identify coral species, assess reef health, and use restoration tools properly.
Explore the Catacombs, a dramatic underwater formation of swim-throughs and coral-covered tunnels. Afternoon dive on the historic San Jacinto wreck, one of the most popular dive sites in the Abacos. These sites showcase the natural beauty that makes restoration work so important.
Return to the restoration sites for elkhorn coral outplanting. Elkhorn coral is a critical reef-building species and one of the most important targets for restoration in the Caribbean. You will learn the specific techniques required for elkhorn fragments, which differ from staghorn methods.
Morning dive at the coral nursery for maintenance and monitoring work. Afternoon visit to the turtle lagoon with Brendal for an up-close look at the green turtle population. This is a great day to explore the charming village of New Plymouth and its colorful history.
Final day of diving with a celebratory dive at one of the group’s favorite sites from the week. Complete your Reef Rescue Diver specialty requirements. Evening features a farewell dinner, certification presentation, and time to reflect on the week with the team.
Breakfast at The Bluff House followed by transfers to the ferry and onward travel. The team will share resources for staying connected, continuing your restoration education, and planning your next expedition.
Location & Lifestyle
Green Turtle Cay is a three-mile-long island in the Abaco chain, home to roughly 500 year-round residents. It is one of the most picturesque settlements in The Bahamas, with pastel-painted colonial buildings, narrow lanes, and a pace of life that has barely changed in decades.
The island sits at the edge of the Sea of Abaco, surrounded by shallow banks, reef systems, and deep ocean channels. This mix of habitats makes it an ideal base for both adventure diving and marine science. The water temperature in April typically ranges from 76 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, with excellent visibility.
New Plymouth village offers small restaurants, local art galleries, and a museum dedicated to the island’s Loyalist heritage. The community is welcoming and genuine. You will feel like a guest, not a tourist.
The Bluff House sits on a hilltop overlooking the Sea of Abaco, offering some of the best views on the island. Originally built as a private estate, it has been thoughtfully converted into a boutique property that maintains the character and charm of island living.
Accommodations include comfortable rooms with ocean views, air conditioning, and private bathrooms. The property features a pool, a restaurant and bar, and direct beach access. It is the kind of place where you can decompress after a day of diving and still feel connected to the island.
The Bluff House is located a short walk from the ferry dock and a quick boat ride from the dive sites. Its position on the island makes it the perfect launchpad for the expedition.
This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, sea conditions, and the judgment of the expedition team. Flexibility is part of the adventure.
Investment
Pricing for the April 2027 expedition will be announced soon. Register your interest below to be the first to know when bookings open.
Participants must hold a PADI Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent) and have logged a minimum of 20 dives. All divers must carry valid dive insurance and travel insurance for the duration of the expedition.
Scientific Authority
Founded in 1970, the Perry Institute for Marine Science has been a leader in marine research and conservation for more than five decades. Based in The Bahamas, PIMS conducts groundbreaking research on coral reef ecosystems, shark populations, mangrove habitats, and marine protected areas.
PIMS scientists have published over 100 peer-reviewed papers and have been instrumental in establishing marine conservation policy across the Caribbean. Their coral restoration work has outplanted over 40,000 corals to degraded reef sites throughout The Bahamas.
The Reef Rescue Network is a PIMS initiative that trains local communities and dive professionals in coral restoration techniques. The program uses a science-based approach to coral gardening, combining nursery propagation with strategic outplanting to rebuild damaged reef ecosystems.
Through the Reef Rescue Network, PIMS has established coral nurseries across The Bahamas and trained hundreds of Bahamian citizens in restoration methods. This expedition is a direct extension of that work, allowing participants to contribute to active restoration projects alongside the scientists who designed the program.
Expedition Director
PIMS coral restoration specialist and expedition coordinator with extensive field experience across the Caribbean.
Lead Scientist
PIMS marine biologist specializing in coral reef ecology and restoration science throughout The Bahamas.
Dive Operations Lead
Professional dive instructor and marine educator with deep roots in the Abaco diving community.
Common Questions
You need a minimum of PADI Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent from another agency) and at least 20 logged dives. The expedition involves moderate-depth reef dives and some current, so basic competency and comfort in the water are important.
Fly into Marsh Harbour Airport (MHH) on Abaco, then take a short ferry ride from the Treasure Cay ferry dock to Green Turtle Cay. The ferry ride is approximately 10 minutes. The expedition team will provide detailed travel logistics and timing once you register.
The expedition is limited to a small group to ensure quality instruction and meaningful dive experiences. Exact capacity will be confirmed when bookings open. Small group sizes allow for personalized mentorship with the PIMS scientists and Brendal’s dive team.
Pricing for the April 2027 expedition is currently being finalized. Register your interest using the form below and you will be among the first to receive pricing details and booking instructions when they are available.
No. Full dive equipment rentals are available through Brendal’s Dive Center. Many experienced divers prefer to bring their own mask, wetsuit, and computer, but all essential equipment can be rented on-site. Rental details and pricing will be shared before the expedition.
Yes. All participants must carry valid travel insurance and dive insurance (such as DAN or equivalent) for the duration of the expedition. This is a non-negotiable requirement for participation.
Water temperatures around Green Turtle Cay in April typically range from 76 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 27 degrees Celsius). Most divers are comfortable in a 3mm wetsuit, though some prefer a 5mm for longer dives. Visibility is generally excellent, often exceeding 80 feet.
This expedition is designed for certified divers. However, if you have a non-diving companion, please reach out through the inquiry form. Green Turtle Cay offers excellent snorkeling, kayaking, and island exploration that could complement the dive schedule.
Expedition Partner
Every expedition participant receives a complimentary Stream2Sea reef-safe sunscreen kit. Standard sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate that damage coral and marine life. Stream2Sea products are tested and proven safe for aquatic ecosystems.
When you are spending your week restoring coral, the last thing you want is your sunscreen undoing the work. Stream2Sea is the only brand we trust on our expeditions.
Learn MoreRegister Interest
Be the first to know when bookings open for Green Turtle Cay 2027. Fill out the form below and we will be in touch.