Why I Keep Coming Back: An Instructor’s Reflection
By: Marielle Harper, Broadreach Instructor January 31, 2025 Scuba, Sailing
How it Started
A few years ago, I found myself sitting on a beach in Mexico, reflecting on my next steps. After nearly five years as a dive instructor on a small Caribbean island, I knew I needed a change. While I loved the underwater world and sharing it with others, I was craving something more—new places, new experiences, and a break from teaching six days a week.
So, I traveled. I road-tripped through Central America, eventually landing in Mexico. It was beautiful, and I embraced the new experiences—different cultures, foods, and landscapes—but something felt missing. I realized it wasn’t the adventure I was missing but the deeper connection I once felt when teaching students and being involved in ocean conservation.
That’s when I discovered Broadreach.
Why Broadreach?
Joining Broadreach was a decision that has greatly impacted my life. From my first contract as a dive instructor based in St. Martin, I felt immediately welcomed. I was nervous at first, as I was older than most of the instructors in the Caribbean, and I wasn’t sure I’d fit in. But Broadreach has a way of bringing together people from all walks of life—different countries, backgrounds, and passions.
The unifying factor? A love for teaching, adventure, and exploration. It wasn’t about competition but collaboration and being part of something bigger than ourselves. Within days, my apprehension turned to excitement.
The People
That first summer, I was assigned to the Advanced Scuba Voyage. I was paired with two incredibly kind, passionate, and funny co-leads. It felt like I hit the jackpot, but over time, I realized that being paired with any instructor at Broadreach would be a win.
The diversity within the team is extraordinary. I’ve worked with co-leads from the U.S., England, Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile—and that’s just the start. This diversity fosters a culture of openness and acceptance, which is reflected in the programs we run. There’s space for everyone at Broadreach, and that’s something I genuinely believe in.
The Adventure and Travel
Broadreach has taken me to places I once only dreamed of. But it’s not just the destinations—it’s the way we travel. As we often discuss on programs, there’s a difference between being a tourist and a traveler. Working with Broadreach has made me feel like a true traveler.
Each program is an authentic, purposeful experience. We’re not just visiting places; we’re learning, contributing, and connecting deeply with the communities and environments we encounter. That’s what makes these adventures truly meaningful.
The Impact
When I reflect on my time with Broadreach, what stands out is the impact—not just on the students but on me as well. Yes, we teach, dive, travel, and sail, but more than that, we build relationships. The trips are intense, unpredictable, and challenging, but there’s something incredibly powerful about sharing those moments with a group that becomes like family.
We push ourselves beyond our limits, and by the end, we feel a sense of accomplishment, gratitude, and growth.
I’ve had the privilege of leading trips in the Caribbean, Costa Rica, Egypt, and Fiji, and I see the same transformation in students every time. They come in unsure of what to expect and leave with a new sense of accomplishment, connection, and understanding. Nothing is more rewarding than watching a student face their fears, try something new, and grow in unexpected ways.
Values
I made an intentional decision to work with Broadreach. My passion has always been in conservation and biology, but it wasn’t until university that I discovered scuba diving. After completing a Conservation Biology and Ecology degree, my love for nature, travel and adventure gradually evolved into working in Scuba Diving, Yachting and tourism. What sets Broadreach apart from many in this industry is the genuine focus on education, conservation, and making a positive impact.
In the world of tourism and travel, it’s easy to find ourselves surrounded by places and companies that exploit rather than educate or conserve. But at Broadreach, I see a team that genuinely cares about making the world a better place. From the staff at Broadreach HQ to my fellow instructors, I am constantly inspired by the positivity, expertise, and commitment to conservation everyone brings. It’s a reminder that the world is full of people who want to make a difference.
Gratitude
Looking back to that time in Mexico when I felt lost and unfulfilled, I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with Broadreach. I get to dive, travel, learn, and challenge myself—all while contributing to meaningful experiences with a focus on ocean conservation.
What I didn’t expect, though, was that this journey would also help me grow. Broadreach has pushed me to be a better teacher, a better leader, and a better person.
Each trip offers new lessons, fresh perspectives, and challenges that make me feel more fulfilled, more connected, and more grateful for the work I get to do.
