Having scuba dived all over the world, math and computer science teacher Debra Troxell found her biggest thrill in the ocean off the shores of Carmel. Three years ago Troxell had the honor of coming face to face with a mother humpback whale and her baby on the way back to shore after a dive. The enormous whales glided by just 20 feet from her face, leaving her in awe.

“It was just majestic,” said Troxell, as she fished for words to describe the event.

Experiences like these are what fuel Troxell’s passion for scuba diving. If she was not a math teacher, Troxell said she would buy an island to develop into a scuba diving resort.

“I have always been an outdoors person,” said Troxell.

Her strong passion for the sport started when she first tried scuba diving during her senior year at Florida Atlantic University.

“I was a pretty good swimmer, so I just decided to try it. [Now] My husband and I dive about two weekends a month and volunteer with an organization called Reef Check,” said Troxell.

Regarding her scuba diving resort, Troxell explains that residents would be able to dive as they pleased.

“The resort would contain cabins with porches so guests could enjoy drinks while relaxing outside during the evenings,” said Troxell.

Troxell said she would handle the business aspect of owning a resort while her husband would be in charge of the mechanics and technical work.

“I’m more people-friendly [than my husband],” Troxell said with a grin.

Troxell and her husband have been looking for an island to pursue their dream of owning a scuba diving resort. Until she finds an affordable island, Troxell will continue to dive off the coast near Carmel and Monterey to see the many sights the ocean has to offer.

“Let me know if you find any cheap islands,” Troxell said, smiling.