Ocean Quest Adventures staff

Rick Stanley is the co-owner and president of Ocean Quest Adventures and one of Newfoundland’s most experienced and respected divers. What began in 1992 as a hobby grew into a passion that led him to explore and later promote the world-class Bell Island shipwrecks. Now a qualified Rebreather Diver, Full Cave Diver, and advanced technical diver with more than 400 dives on the wrecks alone, Rick leads Ocean Quest’s dive training, tours, and marine adventure programs across the province. He is also a founder of Ocean Net, a marine conservation group dedicated to protecting Newfoundland’s coastal environment.

Debbie Stanley is the co-owner of Ocean Quest Adventures and one of Newfoundland’s most accomplished divers. Since starting her dive journey in 1994, she has earned her Assistant Instructor certification, full cave certification, SVOP, MED A2, and marine first aid qualifications. Debbie was also the first woman to dive the Bell Island underwater mines. With extensive experience supporting film crews on marine documentaries— including projects featuring humpback whales and Titanic expeditions—she brings remarkable skill and knowledge to the Ocean Quest team.

John Olivero is a professional adventurer, cultural historian, and PADI Instructor who leads unique ecotourism experiences with Ocean Quest Adventures. A cave diver, boat captain, expedition safety specialist, and storyteller, John has supported major scientific and television expeditions, including the award-winning MineQuest project exploring the Bell Island mines and a number of Netflix TV and Movie projects. His mission is simple: help people enjoy their lives more through unforgettable ocean adventures.

Jason Sooley is a dedicated member of Ocean Quest’s dive crew, boat team, and kayak program. With a lifelong passion for outdoor adventure, Jason has earned certifications as a Rescue Diver, Divemaster, Emergency O2 provider, and EFR First Aid/CPR responder. He also serves as a kayak guide, boat operator, and safety specialist for film and television productions. A proud father of two, Jason brings enthusiasm, skill, and a deep love of Newfoundland’s coastline to every tour.

Steven Lee is a marine biology graduate, tour guide, and boat crew member who helps guests discover Newfoundland’s rich coastal ecosystems. Originally from Ontario, Steve moved to Newfoundland to study marine life and quickly fell in love with the island. With eight years of local experience and a deep understanding of marine and freshwater environments, his tours combine science, storytelling, and a genuine passion for the ocean.

Mark McGowan is a PADI Master Instructor, EFR Instructor, and technical diving educator with certifications through PADI, SDI, and TDI. A five-time PADI Elite Instructor, Mark has spent more than 16 years training divers across the world. A retired RCMP officer with global experience, he has dived nearly every continent—yet still counts Newfoundland’s Bell Island shipwrecks among his favourite sites. Known for his expertise and passion for cold-water diving, Mark is a cornerstone of Ocean Quest’s training team.

Jamie Green is Ocean Quest’s Training Coordinator and PADI Dive Instructor, known for his calm, patient, and encouraging teaching style. After a successful 15-year career as a multi-award-winning REALTOR®, Jamie shifted his focus beneath the waves to help others discover Newfoundland’s extraordinary underwater world. He now oversees diver training programs and guides guests through safe, rewarding scuba experiences.

Chris Power is a PADI Instructor, technical diver, and award-winning underwater photographer known for capturing the beauty of Newfoundland’s cold-water marine life. He is passionate about training new divers and sees every course as an opportunity to build a new community of dive buddies. When not teaching, he’s often exploring the ocean with his camera—ready to snap your next profile photo if you dive past him.

Delilah Smith manages the Ocean Quest Service Shop on O’Leary Avenue, providing expert equipment servicing with precision and care. Following in her father Gerry’s footsteps, she brings a strong commitment to safety, reliability, and quality workmanship. As an avid diver herself, Delilah understands how essential dependable gear is — and ensures every piece leaving the shop is ready for Newfoundland adventure.