The highest bid finally came through…

Back in November, 2009 the Mahahualeñas organized a silent auction to raise money for their organization to continue doing good things for the Mahahual community. GVI Punta Gruesa decided to give back to this group by donating a GVI day, which included:

· A tour of the GVI base

· 2 tanks dives

· Lectures on GVI’s purpose

· A snorkeling trip for non divers

· Lunch cooked by former program coordinator (veggie menu)

The folks who put in the money were not disappointed, and that’s to say the least. The GVI day exceeded their expectation, and in hind sight, would have bid more for it to make it worthwhile.

The day started for the staff hosting the affair at 6 am, prepping the boats and tanks for the divers. The rendezvous happened at 8:30, where the 5 award winners did some of the necessary paperwork, took a tour of base and then the divers got ready to go diving. Raph (who back then organized this gig) and Sam (senior staff member) were th

e hosts with the most, driving boats and leading dives to LG (Los gorditos or “the chubbs”) and LB (Los bollos or “the bread rolls). The first site is a deep dive. The second one has a recently inaugurated “swim through” circuit. The divers could not get over the beauty of the sites and what they offered. One of our guest, Steve Turner, was ecstatic just going diving on the reef in front of his house, and seeing his house from the sea.

As usual, the sea presented its wonders to our guests, with the usual finds: southern stingrays, lionfish, groupers, and the rest.

Then came the snorkelers’ turn to do their thing. The big coral set up 200 m from base was the site picked for the occasion. The nice surprise was spotting a lesser electric ray and a couple of squid, along with the awesome coral and other fish.

When all was said and done, the question was asked: “When can we go again?” Well, good question. Is there another silent auction? and if there is, will GVI donate another day trip? Bets are on. Many locals are lining up. Place your bid.

The highest bid finally came through…