The Master and the Ancients – a High Definition Expedition.

Join Stan Waterman’s humpback encounter in Tonga aboard NAI’A. Hi-Def memories courtesy of Gates Underwater Products.

Accomplished writer, producer and award winning filmmaker Stan Waterman will host a select group of travelers aboard the celebrated liveaboard NAI’A in a rare visit with humpback whales in July 2005. At 83 years young, Stan Waterman – ever the consummate gentleman, foremost storyteller, and eager explorer – points his destination desire toward the South Pacific to commune face to face with the legendary gentle giants that inhabit the blue Tongan waters.

Tonga is one of the few remaining places where it is still possible to have such close encounters with humpback whales. NAI’A, with her professional and welcoming Fijian crew, spends several weeks each season amongst these sparsely inhabited islands enjoying great success in close but passive interaction with the humpbacks.

“Stan is a frequent visitor to NAI’A” beams Rob Barrel, owner of the legendary liveaboard, “but this is a rare opportunity to accompany Stan on one of the world’s most rewarding marine life encounters.” Further, Mr. Waterman is well-known for his top-side entertainment, treating guests to “bijou theatre” and comedic stories spanning his 50-year underwater career. “Stan is simply a great storyteller, a charmer, and one of life’s rare treats” says Pamela Mazey-Mertz, who recently enjoyed a trip aboard the Sea Hunter with Mr. Waterman in the Cocos Islands.

The entire extravaganza will be captured in high definition video courtesy of Gates Underwater Products, well known manufacturer of durable and reliable underwater housings. Guests will have the opportunity to get ‘behind the housing’ and capture their own hi-def video of the Humpbacks as well as receive a DVD of the entire expedition.

The expedition takes place July 23rd – August 1st 2005. Spaces will go fast, so contact Alexx Edwards (Explore@Naia.com.fj) or the NAI’A booking crew directly to make a reservation.

About Stan Waterman : Stan Waterman has been at the forefront of SCUBA diving since its inception as a recreational sport both in this country and throughout the world. He has received numerous honors and awards for his work in television and in behalf of the sea including five Emmys, two Gold Medals from the U.K. Underwater Film Festival, and four Golden Eagles, just to name a few. For a full biography of Stan Waterman visit http://www.stanwaterman.com/bio.htm

About NAI’A: The flagship of Pacific liveaboards, NAI’A has explored the best diving in Fiji, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, Kiribati and Tonga for eleven years. An expeditionary ship designed by divers for divers, NAI’A boasts a world-famous crew of 14 well versed in caring for photographer’s needs. Regular guests, in addition to Stan Waterman, include Howard Hall, Paul Humann, and Steven Frink. www.Naia.com.fj.