News
2016 Accolades and Awards for Red Sail Sports after a Busy Tourism Season
As the largest watersports and retail company in the Cayman Islands, Red Sail Sports is also the largest employer with 100+ staff, so it is a notable achievement to consistently be recognized for excellence in service. Red Sail Sports again received the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for 2016 positive guest reviews on the travel website. The company also received a top rating on Viator.com, a TripAdvisor company used to book tours and activities online. In Grand Cayman, two staffers won prestigious Stingray Awards from the Cayman Islands Tourism Association for a job well done. Daniel Bond won Watersports Manager of the Year and Pat Kenney was recognized for his long service in tourism.
“I have a genuine interest in making sure people have a good time,” says Bond, who manages Red Sail Sport’s fleet and says he goes to work happy every day. “We are all about getting the best experience possible and getting those repeat guests. I really enjoy what I do.”
That’s just what Red Sail Sports Training Manager Beth Hiryok wants to hear. “Guest satisfaction and repeat business – that is what it’s all about!” she said. “Red Sail Sports service standards are emphasized from the start with orientation for new employees.”
Cayman’s largest watersports and retail operator employs divemasters, boat captains, concierges, beach staff, group coordinators, shop attendants and more. They are trained to do their best to make sure guests have a great time while on vacation in the Cayman Islands, and reminded that they are the company’s front line. What they say and do directly affects a guest’s experience with Red Sail Sports and the Cayman Islands.
“We welcome and monitor guest feedback which we regularly receive via TripAdvisor, emails to Management, comment cards, and other input,” said Hiryok. “This guest feedback is then used to guide internal coaching and training initiatives that support our service standards.”
Once on the job, the company’s service standards are reinforced through department training meetings and customer service workshops, and external workshops offered by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. The goal is to keep the customer service satisfaction high and keep them coming back. Judging from guest comments posted on TripAdvisor, it’s working.
“The crew was very professional and we had a great time. At no time did we feel unsafe. I would absolutely dive with them again.” Brian L
“These guys are top notch. Nicest dive boats and the friendliest crews on the island. Was great to be with folks who are as enthusiastic about getting in the water as you are.” EmilGH New York City, NY
“My wife had not dove in several years and had to take a refresher course. She was a little bit leery about diving to 100 feet on a wall. The captain came down and spoke with her and said that there was no way she was not going to enjoy her trip, and he assigned a dive guide to help her with a shallower 60-foot dive. The divemasters and instructors were very friendly and patient. I was very impressed with all the Red Sail Sports staff that I encountered.” Trevor H, Napa, CA
“Red Sail Sports is among the best dive services I have used.” KNThompson, Tampa FL
“We booked three different locations with them – Really nice and professional staff.” Alabamabuda
“Excellent Value and Excellent Service.” a guest from Memphis
“Beautiful Trip! Captain Matthew took care of everyone making the time truly memorable!” Trevor P
“This was our third Stingray City tour, but our first with Red Sail Sports. They did not disappoint!” AorrB, Columbus, OH
Operations Manager Rod McDowall understands how significant it is for customers to be excited enough to share their vacation experience with friends and the online community. Word of mouth referrals are a great pat on the back for everyone at Red Sail Sports.
“This recognition by visitors, residents and peers is a reflection of their personal commitment and training efforts and examples set by their managers and team members. It gives you a great deal of pride when guests take the time and make the effort to send unsolicited comments regarding their experiences with Red Sail Sports and affiliates,” said Operations Manager Rod McDowall.
About Red Sail Sports
Red Sail Sports, a member of the Cayman Islands Tourism Association is a leading resort based dive and watersports operator. Since 1987 it has been setting the standard on Grand Cayman by providing the highest level of guest services. On Seven Mile Beach Red Sail Sports operates locations at the Westin Resort, the Marriott Resort, the Grand Cayman Beach Suites and the Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman. At remote East End the company has a watersports shop at Morritt’s Tortuga Club, also offering dive and catamaran services to The Reef Resort. On North Side Red Sail Sports offers watersports activities at the Rum Point Club. The company offers several dive packages through its affiliation with island hoteliers.
For more information:
Call toll free: (877) 506-6368
On Grand Cayman: (345) 623-5965
E-mail: info@redsailcayman.com
Dive Website: www.diveredsailcayman.com
Facebook: www.facebook/redsailcayman
Twitter: @redsailcayman
Gear News
Introducing the TR-80, IR-50 and CS-30 Regulators from DYNAMICNORD
Whether you are a beginner or a professional diver – with the three new main regulators from DYNAMICNORD, everyone will find their favourite regulator. They all look super stylish.
Excellent performance with the TR-80
Quality and performance are the be-all and end-all for regulators. It is not for nothing that the TR stands for Tec Reg. The innovative design of the TR-80 guarantees absolute reliability – even in ice-cold waters.
Perfect breathing effort at 0.8 J/l / certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / structural design made of solid brass for best cold protection / membrane-compensated design with dry seal of the first stage / reduced exhalation effort thanks to optimized exhalation membrane and bubble deflector / adjustable Venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort / innovative design of the front cover prevents free-flow in strong currents or when diving with scooters / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 LP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Amazing underwater adventures with the IR-50
The IR-50 is the top regulator for advanced and experienced divers. Natural breathing is the essence of this regulator.
Ideal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /certified for diving in waters below 10 degrees / compensated membrane / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) and adjustment knob for individual inhalation comfort/ outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 2 HP and 4 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
The Workhorse – our CS-30
For diving centres and diving beginners – the workhorse stands for strong construction, reliability and robustness. Perfect for your training.
Optimal breathing effort at 0.8 J/l /recommended for diving in waters above 10 degrees / non-compensated piston / adjustable venturi (dive/predive) / outlet valve and deflector for minimum exhalation effort and reduction of bubbles on the face / design made of sandblasted brass, matt chrome finish / 1 HP and 3 NP outlets / mouthpiece made of high-quality, anti-allergic silicone for maximum comfort.
Octopus OP-30
The OP-30 is the ideal addition to all DYNAMICNORD regulators. It is identical in construction to the CS-30.
The TR-80, IR-50, CS-30 (DIN & INT) regulators and the Octopus OP-30 are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store.
DYNAMICNORD – Your Outdoor Companion.
Marine Life & Conservation
Paul Watson Released as Denmark Blocks Japan’s Extradition Bid
Renowned anti-whaling activist Paul Watson has been released from custody in Greenland after spending five months in detention. Denmark’s Justice Ministry rejected Japan’s request for his extradition, citing insufficient guarantees that his time already served in custody would be credited against any potential sentence.
The 74-year-old Canadian-American was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, when his ship docked to refuel. His arrest was based on a 2012 Japanese warrant related to a 2010 encounter in Antarctic waters. Japan alleged Watson obstructed operations and caused damage to a whaling research ship during efforts to disrupt illegal whaling. Watson has consistently denied these claims, maintaining his commitment to marine conservation.
Denmark, which oversees extradition matters for Greenland, concluded that while the legal conditions for extradition were met, the lack of assurances from Japan regarding time-served credit made extradition untenable.
In a video shared by his foundation, Watson expressed gratitude and relief, saying, “After five months, it’s good to be out… and good to know they’re not sending me to Japan.” He added that the most difficult part of his time in custody was being separated from his two young sons.
Watson is a pioneering figure in marine conservation, known for founding the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in 2022 after decades of activism with the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. His bold efforts to defend marine life have earned him widespread support, including from celebrities and conservationists. His work has also been featured in the acclaimed reality TV series Whale Wars.
Watson’s lawyer, Jonas Christoffersen, praised the decision, stating, “We are happy and relieved that Paul Watson is now free.” He added that Watson is eager to reunite with his family and continue his vital work.
The arrest occurred while Watson’s vessel, the M/Y John Paul DeJoria, was en route to the North Pacific with a team of 26 volunteers to intercept a Japanese whaling ship. His foundation described the arrest as politically motivated and emphasized that Watson’s actions were focused on ending illegal whaling practices.
Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission, asserting that whale meat is a cultural tradition. Conservationists, however, continue to challenge these practices, highlighting their impact on marine ecosystems.
Despite the challenges, Watson remains steadfast in his mission to protect marine life and bring attention to whaling practices. His dedication to ocean conservation has made him a globally respected advocate for the environment.
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