Gabriel Holbrook is an enthusiastic speaker who is happy to share his fascination about the living world with audiences. He is originally from England, UK, earning his doctorate in Biology from University of York. He has since enjoyed 30+ years of university-level teaching and research experience in many facets of Biology, including Marine and Plant Biology.

His research has taken him on Oceanographic expeditions to the Bahamas, and he has published articles in a variety of scientific journals. Gabriel has worked at several institutions both in the Midwestern US and Florida. He has also directed summer Biology programs for US students in Oxford, England for 20 years. His curiosity about flora and fauna in marine and coastal environments has been shared while leading many educational field trips. He has a keen interest in Wildlife and Biological features of Port locations throughout the World.

Gabriel is excited to offer his services to a cruise enrichment series and provide engaging destination-related talks in the realm of Biology for cruise guests.

1. Whales of the North Atlantic. Giants of the Oceans. Will you spot Humpback whales?
Come and hear about these amazing creatures that roam the oceans for thousands of miles. Let’s explore what is known about their life under the waves. How do they eat, communicate, migrate, and breed?

2. Wildlife of Portugal and the Iberian area. Explore beyond the charms of Lisbon.
Portugal is home to some special wildlife. Find out about this country’s curious species from Flamingos to the dreaded “Man O’War” that lurks near the beaches.

3. Natural History of the Azores Islands. A mid-Atlantic paradise.
These islands have volcanic origins with high mountain terrain, hot springs, and fascinating wildlife. We’ll talk about the rich diversity of whales, dolphins, birds and plants that make this archipelago their home.

4. The strangest fish of the Atlantic Ocean. Learn what fish we are passing deep under the Sky Princess.
Do you ever look out on the water, and wonder what fish might be under the surface? How do they survive and thrive? The big aquarium below us.

5. Dolphins. The smartest marine mammals?
As we cross the N. Atlantic Ocean, dolphin sightings are possible. Let’s see what we know about these appealing creatures and what they get up to in their natural habitat (not just in Sea World!).

6. Sharks of the deep. The scary reputation of “Jaws”.
Not all sharks are dangerous to humans, despite reports of beach attacks. We’ll talk about the life of sharks and their behavior, how they hunt, and some of their more primitive characteristics.

7. Remarkable Sea Turtles. How do they migrate 8,000 miles around the Atlantic basin?
The Loggerhead turtles hatch from eggs on the Southeast coast of the USA, and then launch on an epic swim towards coast of Portugal and back to breed again as adults.

8. Coral Reef Life. The amazingly rich variety of marine species found around coastal reefs.
As we approach the tropical waters of Florida, there are nearby coral reefs off the Florida Keys. Let’s explore this ecosystem, and what we see when snorkeling among the unique fish and plant life.

9. Alligators of the Florida Everglades. The largest reptile in North America.
Stay away from the water’s edge! Life in the steamy Florida swamps. Where can you see these sometimes terrifying creatures, and what do they get up to?