Following the highly successful expansion of the TIDES Marine Science Camp in Key Largo earlier this month, the Ocean First team is proud to announce an exciting scholarship for future TIDES camp participants. 

The Seby Castellano Memorial Scholarship will be formally unveiled at Dream Weaver Travel’s annual SCUBACON event in Boulder, Colorado, September 6-7. Young people between the ages of 12 and 18 who are selected for the scholarship will have the opportunity to participate in the highly enriching TIDES experience – a weeklong immersive camp that incorporates SCUBA diving, marine science, and fieldwork.

Thanks to the newfound collaboration between Ocean First and Marine Lab, TIDES campers now have the opportunity to scuba dive, learn engaging marine science, and participate as a citizen scientist in onsite research projects lead by industry-leading marine biologists, all the while sleeping on the water in a fun, camp-like setting.

It is only appropriate to honor Seby Castellano with this scholarship. From a very young age—practically from the moment he could walk—Seby had a deep love and connection with the ocean. He grew up exploring the beaches of Southern California and Italy, two places that helped shape his lifelong affection for the sea and marine life. Seby was like a fish in the water—always drawn to the waves, whether he was boogie boarding, body surfing, snorkeling, or diving.The ocean and its well-being meant everything to him. He was interested in a career in environmental science and marine conservation, very much similar to many of those who will receive this new scholarship. The 22-year-old died unexpectedly during a trip to Indonesia last year. Well-loved by the entire Ocean First family, Seby’s memory will live on through the TIDES scholarships.

“Seby was very dedicated to ocean adventure, education, and conservation,” explains Graham Casden, Ocean First Founder and Chief Visionary. “Seby’s passion for scuba diving, exploration and shared, fun-loving experiences will live on through these TIDES scholarships.”

Casden explains that the TIDES Marine Science camp brings students from across the country together to share in a common passion for ocean exploration and discovery. This year’s three camps included participants from Colorado, Florida, Maryland, and Tennessee.

For more information or to apply for one of the scholarships, please email info@oceanfirst.blue.