Rita Messing

Rita hails from Michigan, where she grew up swimming and boating in the Great Lakes. She graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Vision Science from Ferris State University, before earning her Doctor of Optometry degree from the Michigan College of Optometry.

One of her passions lies in the work she does in remote parts of the world, providing eye care and glasses to those who do not have access. She has travelled extensively, including Nepal, where she and her team provided care to thousands shortly after the 2015 earthquake.

Another passion of Rita's is nature and wildlife photography, including underwater and drone work. She is published online for National Geographic and will go to great extremes to get the shot, whether it be from her kayak, in sub-zero temperatures, or a combination of both. She is always eager for any adventure!

Rita has extensive guiding experience with orca, humpbacks and sperm whales, and has been personally field-trained by top marine videographer and cetacean expert Patrick Dykstra. While on safari, she enjoys helping people and making them feel at ease. In her spare time she is a competitive marathon swimmer, runner, and Ironman triathlete.