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Living and Breathing the Ocean: My Life as a Marine Biologist in Turks and Caicos

By Janey Sellars

Since 2021, I’ve been lucky enough to work full-time in the environmental sector. My job as a Marine Biologist and Eco Tour Guide with Big Blue Collective in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, allows me to combine my passion for the ocean with my love for educating others.

Big Blue is primarily a tour company focused on sustainable, client-based excursions. Through small-group and private tours, we emphasize environmental education and share our local knowledge of the marine ecosystem. Day to day, I spend my time out in the field, guiding kayak eco tours through mangroves, snorkeling with guests at remote reef sites, or crewing our boats and catamarans for private island explorations.

While a big part of my job is tourism-based (understandable, as tourism drives the island’s economy), I also get to be involved in collaborative research projects. We partner with organizations like Beneath The Waves and Sharks4Kids, participating in shark tagging efforts and citizen science initiatives. I love visiting local schools to teach students about the importance of monitoring shark populations and preserving the marine environment they call home.

There are also days when we stay on-site at Big Blue, helping with the everyday operations, maintenance, cleaning, and keeping the company running smoothly. It’s a team effort, and I’m fortunate to work alongside around 30 amazing colleagues. Our rotating schedule means I get to work with different teammates daily, which keeps things fresh and fun.

One of the best parts of my job is the diversity it offers, no two days are ever the same. I’m a people person, so I really enjoy meeting clients from all over the world and sharing my knowledge and love for the ocean. That said, like most jobs in this field, it requires a lot of dedication, hard work, and flexibility. During our busy season (November to May), we often work long, back-to-back days. But it’s absolutely worth it. I get to do what I love, surrounded by incredible colleagues who’ve also become friends.

Some of the most magical experiences I’ve had here happen during February and March, when the Atlantic Humpback Whales migrate through the islands. It’s one of the few places in the world where in-water encounters with them are still possible. I’ll never forget what it feels like to witness them in their natural habitat. We also have a resident dolphin family that lives on the north shore of Providenciales, they’re incredibly friendly and often swim up to the anchor line of our vessels to play.

My connection to the ocean began early. I grew up near the water in the north of England, not quite the crystal-clear blues I see now, but still a place where I always felt at peace. Nature was my escape from day-to-day life, and over time, that turned into a deep interest in preserving our marine environments. With the world changing so rapidly, I believe educating others about these ecosystems and the need to protect them is more important than ever.

My journey into marine biology started when I was 16, with a two-year diploma in Marine Biology at Falmouth Marine School in Cornwall. From there, I earned my BSc in Marine Biology and an MSc in Marine Environmental Management from the University of Exeter in Cornwall. During university and my master’s degree, I volunteered with various organizations both in the UK and internationally. I also took on freelance work, and bar and restaurant jobs to make ends meet. Those experiences helped me earn practical qualifications like PADI Rescue Diving, VHF Marine Radio, Powerboating Level 2, and the STCW95.

Of course, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I’ve had my fair share of challenges. Imposter syndrome has followed me into new roles, and it takes me a while to build confidence. I’ve struggled with diving confidence, too, but every dive brings improvement. I’ve come to realize that being a dive instructor may not be my path, and that’s okay. Diving is still a skill I’m working on, and I’m excited to grow even more in the months ahead.

For anyone thinking about a career in this field, my best advice is to reflect on what really brings you joy. What do you need in a role to feel fulfilled? What skills do you have that could be adapted or developed further? People often assume it’s just about swimming with dolphins (which, trust me, is amazing), but the job requires long hours, lots of energy, and a true love for what you do. I’ve learned that I need human connection and a sense that I’m making a difference, those insights have helped me shape the direction of my career.

If you’re passionate about nature, committed to growth, and willing to put in the work, this path can be incredibly rewarding.

You can follow more of my journey on LinkedIn or Instagram. See you out on the water!

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