Veterans Ocean Adventures, Inc

07/28/2026

Come out and paddle under the Full Moon tomorrow with VOA. FREE For Vets. Click the picture to be taken to EVENTBRITE for Registration. Please complete registration fully. Hope to see you tomorrow evening.

VOA in collaboration with Miami Yacht Club is conducting an evening paddle (kayak or SUP) on July 29th, from 6:00-8:00 PM.

07/24/2026

Today VOA got back on the water at Matheson Hammock Park for our first kayak outing there since we lost James — and it was everything we needed it to be.

Ten veterans and two family members paddled the canals of Coral Gables under a gorgeous sky, with Frank leading the group for the first time — and he led it just like James would have. I handled ground logistics today, but watching this crew come together on the water again told me everything I needed to know: VOA’s mission is alive and well.

It made me think back to January, when I actually managed to get a work day off to paddle alongside James — turns out that was his last VOA event. I’m grateful beyond words that I got that time with him on the water. Today felt like the next chapter of something he helped build, and it’s only getting stronger from here.

A huge thank you to Frank for stepping up and leading with the same heart James always brought to the water. This program is in good hands.

Excited for what’s ahead. More paddles, more vets on the water, more days like today.

07/12/2026

Huge thanks to Julio Gonzalez for being my “crash test dummy” this morning! 🤿 As I prep for my Open Water Scuba Instructor (OWSI) certification next weekend, Julio volunteered to run through key skills with me — helping refresh his own diving ahead of summer while giving me the chance to sharpen my teaching and make sure I’ve got every element locked in for a successful cert.

This matters to me beyond the exam. Becoming an OWSI means I can keep serving Veterans Ocean Adventures as a certified instructor — continuing the ocean therapy work that means so much to our veterans, and carrying forward James’s legacy in the water.

Thank you, Julio. Couldn’t have done this rehearsal without you. 🌊

06/25/2026

Last night we dove into the darkness with our VOA family and partners from Military Recreational Divers (MRD). Eleven veterans descended on the Proteus and Rainbow Reef for our first night dive of the season. The water has a way of healing what words cannot. In the silence beneath the surface, we find peace, connection, and strength. Visibility was excellent and the current kept things interesting. Big welcome to three new divers joining VOA for the first time. Thanks to Captain Ani and the crew at Diver’s Paradise for making it happen. This is what it’s all about—veterans supporting veterans, healing together in the water.”

06/22/2026

Follow link below to register via EVENTBRITE

Free Dive For Veterans, Limited slots avai'able

06/12/2026

Six veterans. One hidden paradise. Zero cell service needed. 🌿🚣
Veterans Ocean Adventures hit the water at Virginia Key today — paddling through mangroves, learning kayak safety and self-recovery, and soaking in one of Miami’s best-kept secrets: a peaceful, natural escape right in the middle of the city.
Calm water. Fresh air. Good company. A shared meal after. That’s the formula.
Because sometimes the most powerful thing a veteran can do is slow down, breathe, and let the water do the rest.
Proud of our veterans and grateful for our VA partners who made it happen. 💙
🌊 This is Veterans Ocean Adventures — 17 years of bringing veterans out to experience the healing power of water.

05/21/2026

🌊 A New Chapter for Veterans Ocean Adventures 🌊

James Paddon’s passing earlier this year left an immeasurable void in our Veterans Ocean Adventures (VOA) family. His dedication to ensuring quality programming and exceptional care for the veterans we serve was the heart and soul of our mission. From mentoring volunteers to crafting unforgettable experiences on the water, James’ legacy is woven into every adventure we’ve shared and every life we’ve touched. His commitment to excellence will continue to inspire us as we look to the future.

As I prepare for my own next chapter—retiring and relocating to Port Townsend, Washington—I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey VOA has been. From sunset sails to scuba dives, from kayaking adventures to community events, we’ve created so many meaningful moments for the veterans we serve. While I plan to carry the spirit of VOA with me to the Pacific Northwest, I believe its mission in Miami is too important to let fade.

💙 This is where I need your help. 💙

Is there someone—or perhaps a small group of passionate individuals—ready to step up and carry the torch for VOA in Miami? We’re looking for leaders who share our commitment to serving veterans through ocean-based recreational therapy and who are willing to keep this incredible mission alive for the South Florida community.

And here’s an exciting thought: imagine a future where VOA spans two coasts, offering veterans even more adventures and opportunities to heal, connect, and thrive. With your help, we could create a bi-coastal organization that opens up new horizons—literally and figuratively—for the veterans we serve.

🌟 If you’re interested or know someone who might be, please reach out to me directly or comment below. Let’s honor James Paddon’s legacy by keeping this beautiful mission afloat and expanding its reach for years to come. 🌟

Thank you for being part of our journey, and for considering this opportunity to give back to those who have given so much.

04/11/2026

A PLANK, A PARTNERSHIP, AND A PROMISE 🌊
Saturday afternoon, Veterans Ocean Adventures had the honor of presenting a commemorative plank to the Miami Yacht Club’s new Board of Directors during their installation ceremony. VOA supporter and dive boat captain Ani Gonzales represented VOA and our founder, Branson Rector, in sharing what this partnership means to our veteran community.
This plank isn’t just a piece of wood—it’s a symbol. Just as each plank in a boat deck supports the whole vessel, Miami Yacht Club has been an essential foundation for VOA’s mission.
For years, MYC has provided more than a venue for our Sunset Sails, Learn to Sail classes and monthly Full Moon Paddles. They’ve created a safe haven on the water where veterans feel welcomed, supported, and part of a community. That’s not easy to find after service—and it’s priceless when you do.
As we celebrate VOA’s 17th Anniversary in 2026, we’re excited to deepen this partnership. Together, we’re building a future where Miami Yacht Club is recognized as a center for veteran ocean therapy in South Florida—a place where healing happens through sailing, kayaking, and connection with the water.
Thank you, Miami Yacht Club, for standing with those who served. Your new board received this plank with enthusiasm, and we’re grateful for the partnership ahead.
Fair winds and following seas! ⚓️