Liz Czok

Liz Czok grew up in Vermont, spending her time hiking, snowboarding, freshwater snorkeling and exploring the outdoors, while imagining a future closer to the ocean. That path became clear during a high school field trip to the Forfar Field Station on Andros Island in the Bahamas, where her first experience under water sparked a lasting connection to marine environments.

After earning her open water diving certification at age 17, Liz pursued a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology, studying at the University of Rhode Island, Coastal Carolina University and James Cook University in Queensland, Australia. While in Australia, she completed her training as a scuba instructor, combining academic study with hands-on field experience.

Liz’s work has taken her around the world, including roles as a Naturalist in Alaska and throughout the Caribbean. As both a scuba instructor and licensed USCG Captain, she has supported diving and marine education across a wide range of environments, from cold-water ecosystems in New England to tropical regions of the South Pacific and Caribbean.

For six years, Liz lived and traveled full time aboard her sailboat, Meraki, further deepening her practical seamanship and ocean-based lifestyle. In 2024, she transitioned to exploring the United States by RV. When not working with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, Liz is based in Crystal River, Florida, where she captains manatee eco-tours and assists with local manatee rescue and release efforts.