Agriculture Interns Gain Firsthand Insight into Life at Sea by Camelia Wallace-Tonge
There was an undeniable sense of anticipation as the Agriculture Interns assembled at the Fisheries Complex for a day that promised to take learning beyond the classroom. Accompanied by the Antigua and Barbuda Coast Guard, the interns boarded two local fishing vessels for an immersive experience that offered a closer look at the realities of life at sea and the vital role the fishing industry continues to play in Antigua and Barbuda.
Before departing, Coast Guard officers conducted a comprehensive safety briefing, which was followed by additional instructions from the captains once everyone was aboard.
With preparations complete, the vessels eased away from the dock and into the channels of St. John’s Harbour. As they headed toward open water, the atmosphere quickly shifted from anticipation to excitement when the two vessels enjoyed a spirited dash out of the harbour, with the Coast Guard in close pursuit, setting the tone for an unforgettable day on the water.
As the coastline faded into the distance, the conditions at sea began to change. Calm waters gradually gave way to rolling swells, allowing the captains to demonstrate how quickly the marine environment can shift. The changing conditions became a valuable teaching opportunity, reinforcing that every decision made at sea is guided by experience, preparation, and an unwavering respect for the ocean.
One of the highlights of the excursion came when the interns were invited to take the helm under the captain’s supervision. While steering the vessel initially appeared straightforward, it quickly became evident that maintaining a steady course required constant attention, precise adjustments, and a keen awareness of the surrounding conditions. The exercise left the group with a newfound appreciation for the level of skill and concentration demanded of those who make their living on the sea.
The learning continued as the captain introduced the interns to the vessel’s Garmin GPS and other onboard navigation equipment, demonstrating how fishers accurately mark fishing grounds, relocate fish pots, monitor water depth, and identify underwater features such as reefs. When one intern asked how fishers know when they are approaching a reef hidden beneath the surface, the captain used the onboard display to explain how changes in depth and seabed patterns help experienced operators safely navigate Antigua and Barbuda’s coastal waters.
The vessel then proceeded to several fish pots that had been previously marked using GPS coordinates. Using specialized equipment, the crew successfully retrieved each pot, giving the interns a firsthand look at one of the many techniques employed by local fishers. Although the catch was smaller than expected, the captain explained that fishing success is influenced by several factors, including weather conditions and the condition of the fish pots themselves.
The demonstration also highlighted the continued importance of traditional fish pots and the use of locally known wattle in their construction. While often overlooked, this practice reflects the close relationship between Antigua and Barbuda’s forests and its fishing industry, demonstrating how responsible management of natural resources supports livelihoods across multiple sectors.
Throughout the voyage, the captain spoke candidly about the realities of the profession. He reminded the interns that a calm sea can change within minutes and that fishing demands constant vigilance, sound judgement, and respect for the environment. He also emphasized the importance of dependable navigation and communication equipment, explaining that equipment failure offshore can quickly become a serious situation. The discussion highlighted the need for continued innovation and reliable navigation technologies to strengthen safety for fishers operating in Antigua and Barbuda’s waters.
As the vessels made their way back to St. John’s Harbour, the interns returned with far more than memories of a day at sea. They gained a deeper appreciation for the resilience, professionalism, and expertise of Antigua and Barbuda’s fishing community, while experiencing firsthand the challenges and rewards of an industry that remains an essential pillar of the nation’s food security, economy, and maritime heritage.
