Coastal Cruisers

Program Description

Take a wild ride with MarineQuest and discover the migratory species that cruise along our coast.

Track the movements of turtles, sharks, whales and dolphins as they travel our shores. Learn how scientists use tagging, telemetry and photo-identification to document different migratory species. Experiment with ocean currents and barrier island movement. By the end of the week, you'll be a certified Coastal Cruiser, too.

Prerequisites

Must have completed 1st grade and turn 7 by the start of the program.

Highlights

• Learn how scientists track the seasonal movements of vulnerable migratory species and storms.
• Examine life cycles of important coastal species using scientific tools.
• Investigate physical factors of the ocean, like temperature and salinity, that impact migratory species.
• Model how coastal and migratory policy can benefit species.
• Search for important coastal habitats such as sea grass beds during a safe, shallow water snorkeling adventure.
• Explore the beach, marsh and fouling station while conducting fun hands-on science activities.

How Are Instructors Chosen for MarineQuest?

Most MarineQuest program educators are marine scientists pursuing or have recently completed their undergraduate or graduate degree in a marine science discipline.

Also, we hire teachers who have a passion for marine science education. We search through 100+ staff candidates to identify a summer team with experience working with youth, marine science and hold safety certifications including first aid, lifeguard, and more.

We are proud to have a team that is highly trained in both safety and marine science. Each staff member passes a criminal background check before hiring, is First Aid certified, passes a DMV check if they are driving, and is lifeguard certified if required by their position.

Does My Child Need to Know How to Swim?

While it doesn't hurt to know how to swim, it is not necessary. MarineQuest can provide floatation devices and PFDs while in or near the water and your child will never be forced to go into any water against their will.

MarineQuest employs certified lifeguards that supervise all water-based activities.

How Are Children Transported from One Location to Another?

Students, through the age of 14, are transported by New Hanover County activity buses operated by New Hanover County bus drivers.

Our older students are transported in 12-passenger vans operated by MarineQuest staff. All staff have a valid license, clean driving record, UNCW van safety training, and 12-passenger van training.

More MarineQuest FAQs

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*Note that prices, content, dates, and times are subject to change without notice.