The Brandes Family Scholarship

History

The Brandes family has been part of the Dive Pirates journey since our very first trip in 2005. At that time, Mary Brandes owned and operated what is now the Cayman Brac Beach Resort and gave Dive Pirates the support we needed to grow. Since then, Mary, Russ, and their son Tyler have been steady contributors. Tyler now serves on our Board of Directors, is an adaptive instructor, and continues to play a vital role in the Foundation’s growth.

In 2018, past recipient Marlene Krpata proposed a way to help former recipients who couldn’t afford to return. Out of that idea came the Brandes Family Scholarship, which funds past recipients so they can reconnect with the Dive Pirates crew.

Purpose

The scholarship provides air travel, resort stay, and diving costs for past recipients of the Dive Pirates Foundation who face financial barriers. Its goal is to help those who have already experienced adaptive diving with DPF continue their diving journey. Typically, the scholarship supports 2–3 adaptive divers each year, depending on buddy and volunteer availability.

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, you must:

  • Have completed an initial Dive Pirates-sponsored trip.
  • Demonstrate financial need (family obligations, job situation, or other hardships).
  • Be available to attend the 2025 Dive Pirates annual trip (Cayman Brac or other destination).
  • Record a short acceptance message by Feb 1, 2026, for presentation at the Dive Pirates Ball.

Required documents:

  • Recommendation letter (from instructor, Dive Pirates member, or diving community).
  • Current photo.
  • Completed Diver Medical Form signed by an M.D. or D.O.
  • Proof of personal health insurance (for the recipient and buddy).

Application Timeline

  • Deadline: Dec 31, 2025
  • Notification: Jan 15, 2026
  • Announcement: Recipient recognized at the 2026 Dive Pirates Ball

Recipient Responsibilities

If selected, you (and your buddy) must:

  1. Have a valid passport by Mar 1, 2026 (apply immediately if expired).
  2. Complete refresher courses as needed.
  3. Provide proof of active dive accident insurance (e.g., DAN Master Plan or equivalent).
  4. Have scuba gear inspected and notify DPF by Mar 1, 2026, if replacement/donated gear is needed.
  5. Understand that you may not reapply for this scholarship for two years.

Should you have any inquiries please do not hesitate to contact us at scholarship@divepirates.org

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