Why We Do What We Do: A Note From the Founder

Hi, I’m Claire, the founder and operator of Nautilus Adventures. I wanted to take a moment to share why I do what I do and why the ocean holds such a special place in my heart.

For as long as I can remember, the water has been my happy place—a safe space where the rest of the world seems to melt away. The sensation of being weightless underwater, surrounded by vibrant marine life and endless blue, is unlike anything else. It’s a privilege to explore this incredible world and share it with others, and I truly believe there’s no experience that compares to it.

Teaching people to dive is one of the most rewarding parts of my life. I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it can be. Diving is so much more than just a sport—it’s empowering, confidence-building, and endlessly exciting. Whether you’re trying scuba for the first time, rediscovering your love for the water after years away, or transitioning from a military diving background to recreational exploration, every dive is an opportunity to grow and experience something new.

I’ve had the honor of teaching people from all walks of life, and I’m always amazed at the connections that form in the water. Watching someone take their first breaths underwater, seeing their eyes light up at the sight of a sea turtle or a coral reef, and knowing they’ve just unlocked a whole new world—it’s an indescribable joy.

To all of the students and divers who have trusted me over the years: thank you. Diving can be intimidating—fear of the unknown is very real, and taking that leap into a new experience takes courage. Your bravery to try something new, to explore the ocean, and to trust me as your guide means more than I can put into words.

Each of you has brought something special to this journey, and I’m so grateful for the chance to meet you, teach you, and share in your discoveries. Watching you grow as divers, build confidence, and fall in love with the underwater world has been the greatest honor. You’ve inspired me as much as I hope I’ve inspired you, and I’m so thankful to be part of your story.

But with this privilege comes responsibility. The ocean is not only a source of awe and adventure; it’s also vital to the health of our planet. Without it, life as we know it simply wouldn’t exist. Unfortunately, the ocean is facing countless challenges—pollution, overfishing, climate change—and many of these are human-made.

That’s why conservation is at the heart of what we do at Nautilus Adventures. We strive to lead by example, from eco-friendly diving practices to picking up trash we find during our dives. It’s a small effort, but if we all do our part, we can make a difference. The ocean gives us so much, and it’s our responsibility to give back however we can.

Every day I wake up feeling lucky to do what I love in a place as beautiful as Puerto Rico. The waters here are filled with life, color, and wonder, and I can’t wait to share that with you. Whether you’re just starting your diving journey or are an experienced diver looking for your next adventure, I’d be honored to be a part of your underwater story.

Thank you for letting me share my passion and for joining me in celebrating and protecting the ocean. Together, we can create unforgettable memories and help ensure this amazing resource is here for generations to come.

See you in the water,
Claire