Meet the crew: Kelsey

Kelsey: I moved to the Big Island from the beautiful state of Colorado. Colorado Springs to be exact.

What do you love the most about Adventure X Rafting excursions?

Kelsey: Well, you can't beat the wild life we see out in the ocean. From whales to dolphins to turtles and more...everyday is different on what you see and how the animals are behaving. During our Swim with the Wild Dolphin adventure, I love helping people back into the boat as they tell me (with BIG smiles on their face) how close they got to the wild dolphins and/or what the dolphins did to interact with them. And again, every story is different...that's what you get with wild animals:)

What's been the best whale sighting witnessed on one of your trips you've worked?

Kelsey: My favorite whale experience was witnessing a triple breach. I tell you, not only did these whales do a triple breach, but they must have breached about 25 times. Our guests in the boat started ranking their performance with numbers..."I think I'd give that whale a 9".

Other thoughts about the trip, captain or crew?

Kelsey: I really think that the whole atmosphere of the boat sets us apart from the other boating trips. Not only do our guests get to experience Captain Casey's humor:), but they get to feel a part of the family. And that's what we are a BIG Ohana out in the water. Where everyone is experiencing this once in a lifetime opportunity...and we all get to take away cool stories and pictures:) Oh, and I love that we don't have to deal with the crowds. Because we leave so far North of Kona-town, we feel like we have the ocean and dolphins to ourselves!

What makes our trip different from other boat trips?

Kelsey: Gosh, I guess I got a head of myself in the question above. So I guess...see the question above:)

What do you like most about the Big Island?

Kelsey: I love the sunshine:) But , really, I love the people and the culture the Big Island represents. This island has its own unique history, even from the other Hawaiian islands. And with all that this island has to offer  i.e. hiking, backpacking, beach-hopping, restaurants, waterfalls, gardens, boating adventures...one gets to experience the people and the culture!

What was the biggest adjustment from the mainland to the Big Island?

Kelsey: I would have to say the food, which I'm now enjoying. But I would go to a restaurant, especially in Hilo, and with a quizzical look on my face ask, "What's lau lau or chicken katsu or oxtail soup or spam musubi?"

What's your favorite place to eat here on the island?

Kelsey: I like Kens House of Pancakes open 24/7 over on the Hilo side. Over on the west side? I must say that Cafe Pesto is wonderful too in Kawaihae (and Hilo).

What's your favorite thing to do (outside of the boat)?

I am learning to kiteboard! If I'm not working, most likely you'll find me somewhere on the west side kite and board in hand!