Marine Science Programs

Educational Programs aboard the American Pride a member of the American Sail Training Association.

January through April we enjoy a spectacular marine event-the annual migration of the Gray Whales. We keep a sharplook-out for other marine animals, while we explore marine ecology and ecosystem awareness. Included is a fish/squid dissection, a touch tank, helm control, knot tying and helping raise the sails.
$19/person
 Minimum 55 to Maximum of 100 persons.

Bring your students an ocean of adventure aboard the tall ship American Pride. This program offers students first-hand access to nature's classroom. The activities your students will participate in focus on the primary habitats of the coastal and marine environment, highlighting their unique biological and geological characteristics and the importance of human relationships with these habitats.

 As we set sail from Long Beach, students will raise sails, take a ships tour to acquaint them to their new home and begin their scientific explorations. Students will explore the waters of Catalina by kayak and snorkel in search of the many animals that call its waters home. We will be looking for fish, marine mammals and invertebrates and discussing their many adaptations. The last  expedition of your trip will occur around Two Harbors. A nature hike across the isthmus brings with it many of Catalina’s native plants and animals, as well as a chance to get knee deep in nature at the mud flats. Students will have close encounters of the “wet and rocky” kind at the tidepools with the array of algae and animals that call this habitat home. After visiting our fishy friends, students will observe a fish dissection to learn about its physical adaptations and compare its anatomy to the human anatomy. 

The American Pride is equipped with a variety of tools to further your student’s scientific exploration of Catalina and its critters. Tools we will be using include: a microscope, on-board aquarium and touch tank, bottom sampling equipment, collection nets, water quality testing equipment and remotely operated vehicles outfitted with underwater cameras .

Prior to sailing, teachers are given a manual to prepare their students for their experience aboard the American Pride and are encouraged to work with the ship's staff to create an experience for their students that connect with class work. Through these efforts, teachers and students alike bridge the gap between the classroom and the dynamic marine and terrestrial world on and around Catalina Island.

You and your class can enjoy A 3, 4 or 5 fun-filled days aboard, getting your hands wet! Each additional day is another opportunity for hands-on science, kayaking, and snorkeling at a different cove!

All activities align with California and National Science Standards.

3-Day Program $295/pp
4-Day Program $395/pp
5-Day Program $495/pp

• Book your passage by calling the Children's Maritime Institute at (714) 970-8800.  Dates fill quickly, so book early.
• Please be aware of our class minimums and maximums and suggested grade levels.  You will be responsible for the minimum number of students. One teacher per class is complementary per program.
• Some scholarships are available to eligible students.  Please call for more details.