A Bucket List Check Mark √

Carl and Jason from OdySea Introduce Fred to SeaTREK

Here at Sub Sea Systems, we are often overwhelmed by the amazing reviews we receive about our Sea TREK and Clear Lounge adventures. We know our excursions are fun and offer great memories, but the outpouring of “thumbs up” reviews on sites like tripadvisor.com is always a bit humbling!

Sometimes we are excited by a review or comments we see on social media, but recently, we received a review that blew us away.  Lori and Fred Ginsberg of Coconut Creek, Florida wrote to our friends at OdySea Aquarium in Scottsdale, Arizona. Lori and Fred visited the aquarium in May and had the experience of a lifetime.

Fred's TREK

Fred had always wanted to experience an attraction like Sea TREK, but was not sure he would be able to do so. Fred is a cancer patient, having kidney cancer that has metastasized in his lungs. Due to several very serious lung surgeries, his breathing, at times, can be compromised. So, Sea TREK remained on his "bucket list,” until he met the Sea TREK team at OdySea.

This is what Lori shared with us:

“After a long and most pleasant conversation with Carl (Sea TREK manager at OdySea), Fred was soon to be on his way walking under water! Carl advised us that he would speak to the other divers and looked up the time he could return so he too could go in the water with my husband. We met back at 2:45 and it was agreed that Fred would be fine in the water, and taken out immediately if a problem came up. In he went with Carl, Jason, Dominique, and Lauren handling the oxygen. Wow!!! Their professionalism, friendly demeanor, caring and over-the-top positive attitudes brought us through an experience of a lifetime! You should know how this fabulous team truly touched our lives in a most positive way! If accommodations could be awarded, Carl, Dominique, Jason and Lauren deserve the best! Although I was not in the water with them, to watch the experience they gave to my husband touched me deeply! Please thank those wonderful people and know that what they gave to my husband through this experience will long be remembered! Checking off a "bucket-list" entry, for us, is a miracle we will never forget! Hopefully one day our paths will cross again for another dive. Until then, our heartfelt and most sincere thanks to Carl, Jason, Dominique and Lauren! You got my husband, Fred, back in the water again! “

After we finished passing the tissue box, we reached out to Lori, thanking her for her kind words and asking her permission to share Fred’s story in our blog and newsletter. Here was Lori’s response:

“I am surprised and ecstatic that our SeaTREK story reached you in the California Corporate Office, not only to share our wonderful experience, but to be sure that you are aware of the fabulous team at OdySea, including Carl, Jason, Dominique and Lauren. Without their encouragement and expertise, Fred would not have the continuous smile on his face and awesome experience to all who have heard his story and seen the photos of his SeaTREK adventure…. Fred has already lined up our family to join him down in Miami to walk the undersea walk with him again! It is truly our honor to have you share his story. We are headed to the oncologist this Friday to adjust the lifelong chemo regiment that Fred must remain on to battle the tumors in his lungs, and he can't wait to tell the doctor about his undersea adventure! Perhaps sharing his story is a wonderful way to help others to think about jumping over health obstacles and to enjoy life to the fullest! Your team at OdySea allowed Fred to do just that! We are hoping to come back to OdySea at a future date to visit our new friends. I am truly touched deeply by all the words of encouragement that your wonderful corporation has sent our way! ~ Fondly, Lori and Fred Ginsberg”

As a company that relies on word-of-mouth and testimonials to build customer relationships and generate future business, we are always appreciative of feedback from our customers. However, we are beyond grateful for these kind words for both SeaTREK and the outstanding team at OdySea; we are thrilled and honored to be a part of making Fred’s dream come true. 

See you soon, Lori and Fred!

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Solar in the Spotlight – Boating with Sun Power

In recent years, terms like "going green" and "eco-friendly" have become more than just buzz words on talk shows, commercials and product packaging. From personal care items to energy-saving appliances, we are surrounded by options that help consumers not only save the Earth, but also save money.

When it comes to environmentally friendly options, solar power is at the forefront. It’s no longer uncommon to see solar panels on roofs of neighboring homes or even large businesses. Solar power is being utilized everywhere- and our waterways are no exception. In 2013, the MS Turanor PlanteSolar, an 89,000 kg catamaran, completed its journey around the world utilizing solar power alone. And, throughout the US, solar ferries are being considered for public transportation needs.

But it’s not just the big guys who are making the most of solar energy; boat owners can also take advantage of this option. Going solar offers many benefits. Not only does this alternative power protect the environment, it’ll save you money in the long run. Yes, the initial investment is higher, but once you’ve opted in, sun power is free!

Additionally, utilizing solar power allows boaters to access waterways that may otherwise be restricted. With environmental issues at the forefront, many lakes and rivers are not open to gas-powered boats, which can cause environmental pollution (and noise pollution).  Solar power is a pollution-free alternative.

For battery-operated watercraft, solar can top off batteries and increase longevity– extending your time on the water. When the sun is out, a solar panel provides a continuous trickle charge– charging your batteries nearly anywhere, anytime; on the trailer, at a mooring, docked in a slip, or even when you’re out driving. A small panel can eliminate the need for a bulky external charger, struggling with moving heavy batteries to and from the boat, and complete setbacks caused by dead batteries.
Consider a solar option for your current boat or next boat purchase. You’ll not only be helping the planet, but you’ll save some cash too!


Thinking of buying a boat but not sure which option is right for you? Get your FREE Guide to Buying a Boat! From kayaks to solar fishing boats, you''ll get descriptions of the many boating and watercraft options, pros and cons, and more!

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Happy Father's Day!

We’re celebrating Father’s Day by honoring the newest Dad in the Sub Sea System's family, Kyle Mayfield. Kyle and his wife, Veronica welcomed Wyatt Mayfield on January 27th. We asked Kyle some questions about his new role as Dad to Wyatt!

How did you find out you were going to be a Dad?
I had been away on business in Mexico, and I remember Vern giving me a piece of paper from a recent doctor's visit. It took me a sec to realize what I was looking at, and then it finally hit. It was a pretty awesome moment!

What surprises you the most about being a Dad?
The fact that I, me, have a child, the whole experience has been pretty surprising. I’m constantly learning something new about myself because of my son.


What’s the biggest change you’ve had to make, to accommodate your new role?
Time management and getting accustomed to being prepared for all the things this little guy requires…thank God for my wife!


What words of encouragement would you give to a friend who is about to become a Dad?
It gets better- you were a baby once and you turned out ok. But seriously, at this stage, even the roughest stretch can be forgotten with the littlest smile.


What three adjectives would your parents use to describe you?
What’s an adjective? Individual, entertaining, affable


What is the best advice your Dad ever gave you?
It’s only worth what someone is willing to pay; I don’t yet know how that will apply to parenting, but do you want to buy a baby?


What kind of activities did you and your family enjoy during your childhood that you intend to share with Wyatt?
Camping, hiking, skiing…being active and being outside


Wine or beer?
A chilled rose…c’mon, no contest- rocky mountain water all the way!


We wish all Dads a Happy Father’s Day, and hope you get a chance to enjoy your favorite activity… or at least, your favorite “rocky mountain water”!

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Celebrating National Aquarium Month!

June is National Aquarium Month, and Sub Sea Systems is celebrating by featuring our aquarium partners and their unique conservation efforts.

Aquariums provide family fun, education, and interactions with sea life (including Sea TREKking!), but it may come as a surprise that aquariums are frequently involved in conservation and sea life rescue missions. 

Here are a few of our partner aquariums and the special efforts they are making to keep our planet blue!

Sea Life Park, Waimanalo, Hawaii (Oahu)

Sea Life Park in Oahu, Hawaii provides a wide variety of education and interactive programs. The Park supports animal species preservation via their “honu” (Hawaiian green sea turtles) rescue and support efforts. The Park celebrated World Turtle Day, 2017, with the release of three honu into the wild. Children from local schools participated in the event by becoming “Reef Rangers”, a kid’s conservation club sponsored by the park. The Park also endorsed the Green Sea Turtle Blessing and Release Celebration, by partnering with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Department of Land and Natural Resources, and releasing two green sea turtles as part of a collaborative conservation initiative to protect this threatened turtle species.

OdySea Aquarium, Scottsdale, Arizona

OdySea Aquarium is committed to supporting a variety of programs at the local, regional, and global level to educate and inspire guests about aquatic life and conservation. OdySea partners with the Arizona Fish and Wildlife Department and supports their mission to conserve Arizona’s diverse wildlife resources.

Additionally, OdySea joins with SANCCOB, a registered non-profit organization whose primary objective is to reverse the decline of seabird populations through the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of ill, injured, abandoned and oiled seabirds. 

Miami Seaquarium, Miami Florida

Miami Seaquarium® is committed to wildlife conservation and the rescue, rehabilitation and release of distressed marine mammals. This commitment began even before the park first opened its doors. In July of 1955, the park's conservation work began when Maime, a 3 week old, 47-pound manatee was rescued after being injured.

Since that first rescue in 1955, Miami Seaquarium has rescued, rehabilitated and released countless manatees, sea turtles, dolphins and whales. Since 2002 alone, more than 80 manatees that have been rescued and rehabilitated and in the last decade, more than 200 sea turtles were rehabilitated under the Seaquarium’s care. It is one of only three facilities in the State of Florida with a letter of authorization from the US Fish and Wildlife Service as a Manatee Critical Care Facility. The park's highly trained animal rescue team includes divers, staff veterinarians and animal caretakers who are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

SeaLife Aquarium, Manchester, United Kingdom

Not only does SeaLife Aquarium share the wonder and beauty of our oceans with its visitors, the Aquarium sponsors the Breed Rescue Protect program, which includes a system of care and best-practice animal husbandry that draws on decades of collective experience from marine biologists.

SeaLife runs breeding programs for creatures as diverse as sharks, rays, penguins and turtles, and participates in rescue and release efforts for injured and sick animals. SeaLife also campaigns for the global protection of marine wildlife.

Underwater World, Guam

Like all aquariums, UnderWater World shares beautiful sea life with its guests. However, this aquarium enforces a strict policy of only accepting and displaying animals that have been bred, collected, transported and treated in accordance with the Guam Environmental Education Committee. In fact, in 2007 the Marine Aquarium Council and the European Union of Zoos and Aquariums recognized one of their collection templates for international use.

Additionally, Underwater World participates in Project Guam, which focuses on restoring and protecting coral species of local concern. The aquarium partners with the University of Guam to organize field training workshops for restoration efforts. Participants included international and local aquarium specialists, students and scientists. Since 2013, UWW has installed a public laboratory at its facility, where visitors can learn about coral reproduction and conservation. 

It’s easy to get lost in the wonder of the underwater world when visiting these amazing aquariums. Communicating how much support they provide to sea life and our planet may encourage more participants to visit, enjoy, and learn more about our oceans and the lives within.

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PART 3: Tips & Tricks for Travel Savings- Money Saving Travel Apps

When you're traveling, your best resource can be your phone, and having helpful apps that that can assist you with everything from navigation to translating can save you a lot of heartache. There are many travel apps to sort through, but some are definite money savers! Take a peek through these options, and see which apps you might want to use to save cash on your next vacation.

GasBuddy-Your Gas-Saving Friend

This app is one of the best for saving money on road trips. GasBuddy locates the closest gas stations and provides approximate pricing for each. With this app, you can get directions to the closest station, and earn points and achievements for contributing information about local prices so that others can benefit. GasBuddy also offers a $100 free gas giveaway daily!

WifiMapper

Free Wi-Fi can be a great money saver when you travel. The WifiMapper app addresses the problem through crowdsourcing its data and integrating the information with Foursquare, so you’ll know whether the “free” Wi-Fi at a café a few blocks away also requires the purchase of a pricey latte. In addition, it measures the quality of the Wi-Fi signal, so you can find the fastest free connection nearby to upload your vacation pics.

Cheap Flights

The CheapFlights app helps you search and book the best prices on flights and hotels from hundreds of airlines and accommodation providers globally. See the cheapest days to fly, or find the best flight for you by balancing price, layovers and flight duration. Compare and book immediately, or later by saving your personal preferences.

Viator Tours and Activities

Want to experience the best sites and sounds during your trip, but do not know where to start? Viator has you covered! With the Viator app, you can discover over 20,000 of the world’s top-rated tours and activities in over 1,500 destinations worldwide. Viator’s offers range from VIP experiences at iconic locations, like the Sistine Chapel, to “Skip the Line” passes at popular attractions, like the Eiffel Tower and the Empire State Building. The best part? Viator guarantees the lowest prices on these top tours.

HotelTonight

Did you know you can save a ton of money if you book a hotel room last minute? The Hotel Tonight app offers amazing prices for more than 15,000 hotels in 35 countries. The app also includes exclusive discounts and perks programs, as well as a seamless, 10-second booking feature. HotelTonight even offers 24/7 customer support.

OpenTable

Make a lunch or dinner reservation and earn points that can be converted to gift cards. Some restaurants offer 1,000 points, worth $10 (though the majority give you 100 points, or $1). While not exactly instant gratification, you’ll be dining out anyway, so why not earn points and free meals for future use? Or, start collecting points now and use the certificates during your travels. The OpenTable app works at more than 33,000 restaurants worldwide.

Postagram

Who said snail mail was overrated? Postcards are a classic travel memento to share with friends and family. With the Postagram app you can bring this tradition into the digital age by sending personalized photos and messages from your phone to relatives. They’ll receive actual, printed postcards for $1.99 a piece, which covers printing and postage (mailed within the US).

Uber

If you want to get anywhere, Uber is there for you. As a company that provides drivers to take you from point A to point B, Uber is usually cheaper than cabs, and you don’t need to make a phone call! Just open up the Uber app, plug in your starting point and the desired destination and Uber will send a driver your way. Once you enter your credit card details, everything is taken care of; you don’t need to worry about having cash and you don’t even need to have your physical credit card on hand. Use Uber to get to and from the airport, or as your vacation “designated driver”. You can even track your driver’s route, so you’ll know right when he’s going to arrive at the pub to pick you up.

Groupon

Most app users love Groupon for local deals, but with a little planning, you can also use it to search for deals on restaurants, things to do, and hotels for your next destination. Order Groupons ahead of your trip, then utilize the app to get your deals once you’re at your locale.

Got a money-saving travel trip you’d like to share? Let us know below!

Terrie Carrozzella is the Web Designer & Social Media Manager for Sub Sea Systems. Want to contact Terrie about Sea TREK helmet diving, Clear Lounge underwater oxygen bar, or FunCat electric catamarans? Email her here!terrie@subseasystems.com

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