For over 25 years, boating and sailing have been a major part of Valma's life. During this time, her work and personal adventures on the oceans of the world have allowed her to see herself in an entirely new light.

Since 1979, Valma has sailed the  Hawaii, British Virgin Islands, French Polynesia, Mexico, British Columbia West Coast and Belize on boats ranging in length from 20 to 55 feet and have been single-hand-sailing her own 24-foot San Juan sloop "Wholphin II" for the last 9 years. In addition, she has captained and crewed on 20 to 110 foot scuba dive charter and commercial fishing vessels.

Valma maintains a Fishing Master IV International Captain's license and has completed the CSC 2 60 ton Small Craft Masters training. She is a certified International Occupational Scuba Diver and holds PADI Open Water, Advanced and Rescue Diver Certifications since 1985.