FTV Hello from the United States Everyone!

We have finally arrived in Key West Florida! We are docked in a US Navy pier right outside of downtown Key West for anyone that is in the area!

Last night we had our usual pre-port Briefing, which happens before every port. At a pre-port briefing the cadets are informed about the next day's destination. Captain Bushy, Captain Rozak, Commander Kelleher, and Dr. Cukor address the safety precautions that everyone should take, as well as activities in the area, and any medical information we should know before departing from the ship. This is a great way to keep everyone safe in the port.

Pre-port briefing Key West

During our pre-port briefing for Key West the biggest piece of advice we were told was not to travel alone or in very large groups. This was a quick briefing because we are also going to be back in the United States where most of us are from, so we know what goes on and what to be careful of. The briefing is also an opportunity for the Captain to tell us what the schedule will be like on arrival day. We were told that on Friday we would picking up the pilot at 0630 and tie up on the pier at 0730. Shortly after our arrival we will be boarded by the US Customs department where they will be taking our paper work we had filled out a few days ago. Once the ship is cleared we will be able to go out and enjoy the Key West.

As scheduled, this morning at 630 we secured the rails, then everyone went to the stern of the ship, where we finally had cell phones reception. Most everyone called love ones to announce our return to the U.S.

We got ready to get off the ship to go explore. There is so much to do in Key West, whether going on an excursion that the school planned or exploring on our own, everyone is going to have a fun time here. I do have to say after being close to the equator for about a month it does seem a little chilly here. But I know it is better than the two feet of snow we have at home, so I am not complaining. We have scuba diving trips, Jet Ski tours, and so much more planned. I cannot wait to tell you about it tomorrow!

Until then,
Courtney

The Florida Keys ecosystem consists of diverse habitats, including mangroves, coral reefs and pine lands, that are rich in unique species. Humans, too, are part of the ecosystem, and their activities affect all habitats and the animals and plants that inhabit them. The Keys ecosystem is composed of a small area of land, therefore, the impacts of human activities are magnified. Impacts include water pollution, increased invasive species, over-fishing, negative effects from boating and urban development, and global climate change.