Crespi News

Thirteen members of the ESOL program recently spent two days exploring the natural beauty and ecological wonders of Santa Cruz Island. The group departed from Ventura Harbor on Sunday morning, reaching Channel Islands National Park in just under an hour and a half. During the ferry crossing, students were treated to remarkable wildlife sightings, including whales, sea lions, and a large pod of dolphins numbering in the thousands.

Upon arrival, the group established camp and enjoyed lunch before heading to Scorpion Cove for an afternoon of snorkeling in the kelp forest. Later that day, participants embarked on a five-mile hike along the scenic cliffs overlooking Potato Harbor and Cavern Point, taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline.

On the following morning, the team broke down camp and returned to the harbor to meet their kayaking guides. Over the course of a three-and-a-half-hour tour, students explored a series of sea caves and learned about the kelp forest ecosystem, as well as the effects of climate change on marine habitats. The excursion concluded with a traditional stop at In-N-Out, a favorite way to celebrate the completion of the Channel Islands Adventure.

The ESOL program has several additional excursions planned for the 2025–2026 Ocean Year, culminating in a capstone expedition to Belize during Easter Break.

Students interested in participating or learning more about the ESOL program are encouraged to contact Coach Bilek or Ms. Saykali for additional information.