In our hotel lobby in the Bahamas, there were many sightseeing brochures offering daytrips to deserted islands. The one that offered the possibility of seeing wild dolphins, stingrays and reef sharks looked the most appealing. I was surprised to find this tour company had good environmental policies, too.

Early in the morning, we boarded the boat. The captain's voice came on the microphone, "Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the Robinson Crusoe Cruise aboard the Majestic Lady. My name is 'Coach'. We are sailing to Rose Island, which is made of limestone and porous rock. There are coffee and donuts. Try to hold onto your cups, so we can cut down on waste. You are not going to find any tee-shirt or straw bag vendors or taxi drivers trying to sell you anything on these beaches. Nobody bothers you on Rose Island. There's no fear of being run over by a jet ski. We'll serve you a nice lunch, and the bar is open all day. We depart the island at exactly 3:30. So, if you want a good view of the BACK of the boat, come at 3:35! Now, who is celebrating a birthday? (applause) Who is on their honeymoon? Who is celebrating leaving the kids at home?" (many hands raise and much applause).

"Keep in mind when you are snorkeling, that the slightest touch of coral, kills it. It looks like rocks, but actually it is living, breathing coral. Our motto is 'Take only pictures, leave only bubbles!'

What countries are you from? Germany? Ecuador? Thailand? Please, everybody, respect the island. Do not take anything or walk on vegetation, and don't pour drinks on the plants. Please keep to the trails. Remember, the only thing that comes 'out' of the water, is 'you.'

Beware of the Caribbean sun, it's 89 degrees Fahrenheit today. When snorkeling, the salt crystals in the water magnify the sun even more. You might want to wear a shirt or sun-block while snorkeling. Now, please be careful of your step." The 50 people filed off the boat and straight to the stunning beach and crystal clear sea.