2013 Bahamas Expedition | Round Two
Emma is a former Giant Ocean Tank Dive Intern on her first collection expedition to the Bahamas. She joined Aquarium divers to help collect fish, under special permits, so that visitors in Boston can appreciate the splendor of a healthy Caribbean reef. These fish will live in the Giant Ocean Tank after its top-to-bottom transformation.  

The infamous Packing Day started early this morning at 3:30 am. We have to wake up bright and early in order to pack up all the fish and get them to the airport, where they will be shipped to the New England Aquarium. Before the sun was even up, and after quite a few cups of coffee, we were already a few hours into the process. First, two people re-catch fish from the holding tanks and place them into buckets.

Carolyn catching fish in the collection tank

A rock beauty in a bucket

Next, each fish is placed in a bag.  Anywhere from one to four bags are placed in one Styrofoam box, and then two Styrofoam boxes are placed in one, large cardboard box, which was loaded into the truck and taken to the airport.

A rock beauty being prepared for shipping

Chris, Sherrie and Liz at a packing station

Chris and Joe moving a box onto the moving truck

By the early afternoon, everyone was packed up and on their way to Boston!

This trip has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life.  I learned so much, met amazing people, and helped contribute to the reopening of the Giant Ocean Tank.  I can’t wait to see how all the fish look when the exhibit opens this summer!

Some of those amazing people

By showing visitors the beauty of a healthy Caribbean reef, we hope to inspire visitors to do what they can to protect these reefs and marine habitats around the world. Dive into the New Aquarium Experience, coming early this summer!